This rare Universal Genève Aero-Compax Ref. 890101/01 from the 1960s, lovingly known as the "Batman", is in remarkably good condition and is one of the most sought-after models among collectors of historic pilot's chronographs.
Characteristic of this model is the striking 24-hour dial, on which the hour hand completes a full rotation only once a day. Instead of the usual 12-hour format, each hour is individually marked from 1 to 24 - a function developed especially for pilots and frequent travellers. The bidirectional 24-hour bezel also allows a second time zone to be conveniently displayed.
The nickname "Batman" comes from the high-contrast design of the dial: the upper, silver half symbolizes the day (6 a.m. to 6 p.m.), the lower, deep black half the night hours (6 p.m. to 6 a.m.) - a graphically impressive and functional representation of the day-night cycle. The ensemble is completed by three harmoniously integrated sub-dials for the small seconds, 30-minute and 12-hour chronograph counters.
With its stainless steel case measuring 42 mm in diameter, unusually large for the 1960s, this chronograph offers not only excellent readability but also an impressive presence on the wrist.
Condition report
Dial: perfect condition - original tritium luminous material in hands and markers - signed "Universal Genève", "Aero Compax" and "SWISS T".
Case: great condition - intact lines and bevels - slight signs of wear - legible numbers on the back - correct signed UG crown.
Movement: Venus manual-wound caliber 178 - values on the timegrapher: rate: -9s/day, amplitude: 236 degrees, beat error: 0.1 ms.
Serial number: 2583xxx
Int.Exe.: 3055175