Universal Genève A.Cairelli Roma TIPO CP-2 - Italian Air Force

This extraordinary chronograph ranks among the most sought-after and rarest military timepieces: Universal Genève Cronometro Tipo CP-2 – double-signed shwoing the prestigious name A. Cairelli Roma.

In the 1960s, Antonio Cairelli was the official supplier of precision instruments to the Italian Armed Forces. Based on military specifications, he imported high-quality chronographs from Switzerland – often in small numbers – and supplied them primarily to the Italian Air Force (AMI – Aeronautica Militare Italiana) and Navy (MM – Marina Militare).

While the Zenith CP-2 was delivered in a series of approximately 2500 units, the Universal Genève variant remained an exclusive project: experts estimate that only about 50 to 100 pieces were ever made – a fraction of the Zenith quantity, making this watch a true crown jewel among collectors.

Aesthetically, the model closely resembles the Zenith CP-2, but technically, it goes a step further: the Universal Genève features a flyback function – a crucial advantage in military operations, and one not present in the Zenith version.

This particular example is preserved in outstanding condition: the black dial is perfectly intact and retains its original, evenly aged luminous material.

The robust stainless steel case measures a bold 43 mm, giving it strong presence on the wrist. The screw-down caseback features deep, well-preserved military engravings: AMI Cronometro Tipo CP-2, along with a unique serial number and MM marking, indicating its use by the Italian Navy.

A fascinating collector's item with exceptional provenance, rarely seen on the market in such preserved condition. A watch that breathes history – and still wears as impressively today as it did over sixty years ago.

Condition Report
Dial: flawless condition – original and intact luminous material – signed "Universal Genève A. Cairelli Roma".

Case: 43mm stainless steel case – very light signs of wear – sharp lugs – full profile – deep and crisp caseback engravings: "A.M.I. Cronometro TIPO CP-2 M.M. 200xxx" – rotating bakelite bezel in excellent condition, bidirectional.

Movement: manual-wind Universal Genève calibre 285 P (Flyback) – timegrapher values: rate deviation -8s/day, beat error: 0.7 ms, amplitude: 320 degrees.

Serial number: 200xxx

Int.Exe.: 1528138