1950s Universal Geneve Calatrava (Ref. 111201 1) 18K Rose Gold

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 LeLocle, Switzerland as Universal Watch, the co-founders Ulysee 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 their 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. This unique, simple, and downright charming Calatrava ref. 111201 1 is elegance personified. Paring 18K rose gold with a modest silver dial and bold dauphine hands elevates the otherwise "less is more" aesthetic to make for a gorgeous timepiece suitable for the true enthusiast.

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