This Universal Genève Compur Ref. 12482 from the early 1940s combines the elegance of a classic two-register chronograph with the impressive presence of a rare 38 mm Spillman case in gold.
The iconic Spillman case stands out with its beveled lugs and its large diameter of 38 mm. The screw-down caseback and pump pushers underscore the high standards of water resistance applied to this early chronograph. An oxidation on the right side of the case testifies to decades of untouched storage — a detail appreciated by connoisseurs, as it highlights the authenticity of the case. The deeply preserved and crisp engravings on the caseback further support this impression.
The silver-colored dial shows an honest and evenly developed patina. The concentric texture of the sub-registers adds visual depth, while the diamond-shaped hands complete the harmonious overall look.
Inside ticks the hand-wound Universal Genève calibre 285 - a robust and finely engineered movement that significantly shaped this era of chronograph development.
Universal Genève Spillman chronographs of this size, with original dials and in such a coherent overall condition, appear only rarely on the market.
Condition Report
Dial: honest condition with evenly aged patina - original lume on markers and hands - signed "Universal Genève Compur Swiss".
Case: 38 mm yellow-gold case in excellent condition - deep and crisp reference and serial engravings on the caseback - oxidation indicate long storage - screw-down back - rounded pushers - correct engravings inside the back.
Movement: hand-wound Universal Genève calibre 285 — values on the timegrapher: rate: –5 s/day, amplitude: 293°, beat error: 0.9.
Serial number: 1004xxx
Int.Exe.: 65205