1950s Universal Geneve Uni-Compax (Ref. 32601-1)

Universal Geneve has long been "the watch enthusiast's watch" as the brand's cult-like, but steadily growing following has remained out of the scope of the mega-mainstream. The brand isn't without a few icons, however, boasting unmistakable models such as the Gerald Genta-designed Polerouter, the "Nina Rindt" Compax chronographs, and the ultra-complicated Tri-Compax that Eric Clapton made famous for wearing.

Born in 1894 in Le Locle, Switzerland, as Universal Watch, the co-founders, Ulysse Perret and Numa Descombes, originally set out as a watch part manufacturer, but as their business grew, so did their offerings. In 1919, they moved their operation to Geneva, officially creating Universal Geneve. By 1925, UG had designed its first automatic movement known as the Auto Rem.

Though Universal Geneve eventually produced a broad range of watches intended for vastly different applications, each model shared one crucial commonality: elegance.

The Universal Genève Uni-Compax is one of the brand’s most iconic chronograph models, celebrated for its clean design, balanced layout, and technical refinement. Introduced in the 1930s and evolving through the decades, the Uni-Compax line typically features a two-register configuration and elegant proportions that bridge the gap between sport and dress. Revered by collectors for its variety of dial designs, case shapes, and dependable in-house calibers, the Uni-Compax represents Universal Genève at its best—timeless, functional, and beautifully executed.