Universal Genève Cioccolatone 'J.W. Benson'

While Universal Genève may be most famed for its Compax chronographs and the aeronautically-inspired Polerouter, its svelte dress watches are equally compelling.

Throughout the latter half of the 20th century, UG designed simple, time-only watches alongside its more complicated brethren that played with shape, color, and design in interesting and novel ways.

This particular dress watch is referred to as a 'Cioccolatone' ('big chocolate') after its distinctive, chocolate candy-shaped case that was used by numerous marques beginning in the 1950s. Measuring 25.5mm in yellow gold with beautifully flowing 'scroll' lugs, an unsigned crown, and an acrylic crystal, it features a handsome silver guilloché dial in a Clous de Paris pattern with applied gold faceted indices, a matching gold 'dauphine' handset, and a double-signature: In addition to the Universal Genève wordmark, it also bears the name of J.W. Benson, a well-respected London clock and watchmaker turned retailer, now defunct. 

Powered by a hand-wound U.G. movement and paired to a lovely brown alligator strap with tone-on-tone stitching and a signed gold-tone steel U.G. pin buckle, this watch is the perfect entryway into Universal Genève for the budding collector. Sure to garner knowing nods of approval from the inner enthusiast circle, it's quite simply a killer piece from one of our absolute favorite brands — full stop.

Universal Genève was founded in 1894 by Numa-Emile Descombes and Ulysse George Perret.

In the brand's earliest days, it established itself as a manufacturer of in-house movements of exceptional quality. Universal Genève was also among the first watch manufactures to specialize in wristwatches. In 1897, Louis Eduoard Berthoud — noted designer of complicated watch movements — joined the company. His involvement ensured Universal Genève's supremacy in the development of complicated watches in the 20th Century.

It was under Berthoud's leadership that the brand's reputation as a producer of chronographs was solidified. Chronographs, in particular — namely the Compur and the Compax lines — attracted the attention of watch aficionados, aviators, and militaries around the world. Even the Royal Family of the Netherlands issued a royal charter for Universal Genève to outfit the Dutch military with its chronographs.

Universal Genève was also once responsible for some of the most beautiful dress and time-only watches of the mid-20th century. From the purpose-driven Polerouter to the ornate Cabriolet, UG had a touch all its own and breathed incredible beauty and craftsmanship into every piece they produced. Although the brand is currently dormant, there is tremendous interest in collector circles for vintage models, and is regarded very highly by horological historians and design enthusiasts alike.

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Condition

Since our pieces are vintage or pre-owned, please expect wear & patina from usage and age. Please read each item description and examine all product images.

Warranty

We back each Analog:Shift vintage timepiece with a two-year mechanical warranty from the date of purchase.

International Buyers

Please contact us prior to purchase for additional details on shipping and payment options.

All of our watches include complementary insured shipping within the 50 states.

Most of our products are on hand and will ship directly from our headquarters in New York City. In some cases, watches will be shipped directly from one of our authorized partners.

We generally ship our products via FedEx, fully insured, within 5 business days of purchase. An adult signature is required for receipt of all packages for insurance purposes. Expedited shipping is available at an additional cost. We are also happy to hand deliver your purchase in Manhattan or you may pick it up at our showroom.

Returns must be sent overnight or by priority international delivery, fully insured and paid for by the customer. A restocking fee may apply. Watches must be returned in the same condition as initially shipped.

We welcome international buyers, please contact us prior to purchase for additional details on shipping and payment options.