Universal Genève Tri-Compax

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SKU AS02299
SKU AS02299

Why We Love it

While there is admittedly a bias toward steel sports watches from the 1960s, there’s a certain charm about their predecessors from the 1940s. Take those made by Universal Genève, for example. The brand enjoyed something of a renewed appreciation in recent years, with particular focus on steel, sport watches like the “Nina Rindt” Compax or the Tri-Compax favored by master musician, Eric Clapton.

These watches are seen by many collectors as the culmination of Universal Genève’s prowess in creating chronographs; however, while that might be true, this legacy began long before Nina Rindt strapped a Compax to her wrist.

Universal Genève introduced the Tri-Compax in 1944, at the Basel World Fair. The year was an auspicious one, marking the company’s 50th anniversary. Such an important occasion deserved an important watch, and the Tri-Compax certainly didn’t disappoint.

As the “Compax” in the name suggests, Universal Genève intended it to supplement its bestselling line of chronographs, adding many more functions than those a mere chronograph: a calendar and a moon phase indicator.

Complicated wristwatches had long been Universal Genève’s forte, but never before had they been so perfectly expressed.

These three complications were housed in a variety of cases, from pure 14k or 18k gold to the stainless steel, like the Reference 22250 from the mid-1940s featured here. The gold variants were, of course, more expensive, but even those in stainless steel cost a hefty sum. For example, this particular Reference 22250 might have retailed for $155 in 1940—$2,196.05 in today’s money.

As one can infer from the price, Universal Genève advertised the Tri-Compax as being useful for “every business and professional man.” While that may not ring true in this age of smartwatches, there’s an undeniable utility in having all the necessary information right on your wrist, without having to touch a screen. With this example's elegant silver dial and fancy beveled lugs — not to mention original strap, UG buckle and period-correct box — you'd be hard-pressed to find all that information presented in a nicer package than this. 

A:S Guarantee

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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 one-year mechanical warranty from the date of purchase.

International Buyers

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

Shipping & Returns

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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.

Universal Genève Tri-Compax

Universal Genève Tri-Compax

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Universal Genève Tri-Compax