Universal Genève Golden Shadow 'Tiffany & Co.'

Universal Genève has always been a brand for people who like their watch history a little more insider than obvious. Yes, the same house that helped define the golden age of chronographs also knew exactly how to do elegance, and the Golden Shadow, part of a small collection of ultra-thin “Shadow” models, is one of the cleanest expressions of that quieter side. Better still, it was designed by Gerald Genta, the same mind behind some of the most iconic shapes in modern watchmaking. This is Genta in his refined era: less swagger, more mid-century grace.

This particular example gets even better: it was retailed by Tiffany & Co., which instantly places it in that rarefied category of watches that feel more like time capsule artifacts than accessories. The combination of Universal Genève and Tiffany isn’t loud, but it carries a very specific kind of discrete authority.

Housed in a 35mm 18k yellow gold case, the Golden Shadow is all about proportion and restraint. The dial is a softly silvered champagne tone, fitted with sharp baton hands and matching baton indices, a minimalist layout that lets the design do the talking. Inside is a 25-jewel automatic movement, giving you real mechanical credibility beneath the watch’s effortlessly dressy exterior.

It’s finished with a Tiffany & Co. tan leather strap and a gold pin buckle, exactly the kind of detail collectors love: correct, cohesive, and period-perfect. Flip it over, and you’ll find an intriguing caseback engraving:

“EWR THE SAME MONTH, APRIL 1973 LGA”

A cryptic little breadcrumb from a past life—equal parts mystery and provenance.

A true vintage dress watch should feel like a secret. This one does.

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.

Our Pledge

Analog:Shift stands behind the authenticity of our products in perpetuity.

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.