1940s Universal Genève Tri-Compax (Ref. 12552) 18K RG

Universal Genève created its first chronograph in 1917 and roughly 18 years later, they launched their first “Compax” in which many variations were to follow. Vintage Universal Genève’s sports watches are particularly sought after thanks to their variety, unique designs, and larger sports watch case sizing.

Although Universal Geneve created a variety of very notable and collectible watches, they are most known for their esteemed chronographs, and of those chronographs, the Tri-Compax stands out as being their most recognizable model. The Tri-Compax was created in 1944 in celebration of the company's 50th anniversary, as was introduced as the new flagship mainstay for Universal Geneve. Featuring not only a full three-register chronograph, but the Tri-Compax also impressively houses both a triple calendar and moon phase complications into a relatively compact design. It's the blend between the mechanically complex design melded with a sophisticated dial presentation that has made the Tri-Compax so beloved and cherished by collectors today.