Universal Genève Compax 22499 Two-Tone Dial
38 mm Spillman case - triple-register dial - Cal. 285
The iconic Compax line by Universal Genève included numerous different variations, yet the present example undoubtedly belongs among the rarest configurations. The elaborately designed two-tone dial with its three sub-registers offers beautiful depth and gives the watch an exceptionally elegant vintage appearance. Particularly characteristic are the diamond-shaped hands, which harmonize perfectly with the Arabic numerals and their original luminous material.
An absolute highlight is the large screw-back Spillman case with its characteristic sharply faceted lugs. This special case design is today considered one of the most desirable styles among early Universal Genève chronographs. With a large diameter of 38 mm – unusually oversized for the era – the watch has an impressive presence on the wrist while remaining elegant and sporty at the same time.
Inside beats the proven Universal Genève caliber 285 – a high-quality manual-wind movement appreciated for its reliability, longevity and precise construction.
Overall, this is an ultra-rare vintage chronograph with outstanding aesthetics, remarkable wrist presence and an great overall condition.
Condition Report
Dial: original and complicated two-tone dial with three sub-registers – different shades on the outer dial and central sector – original and matching luminous material in markers and hands – great condition with natural and even aging – signed “Universal Geneve Compax”.
Case: 38 mm Spillman stainless steel case with screw-back caseback – natural signs of wear – unpolishewd – strong lugs – deep engraving of the reference and serial numbers on the caseback – original winding crown and pump chronograph pushers.
Movement: manual-winding Universal Genève caliber 285 – all chronograph functions working correctly – timegrapher results: rate deviation: -6s/day, amplitude: 275 degrees, beat error: 2.9 ms.
Case number: 1071xxx (1944)
Int.Exe.: 1453015
Manufacturer: Universal Genève
Model: Compax
Reference: 22499
Functions: small running second - hour and minute - 12 hour totalizer - 30 minutes counter - screwed-on caseback - chronograph
Material: Stainless steel
Dial: silver colored
Watch glass: acrylic crystal
Bracelet: stainless steel
Type of clasp: deployant buckle
Diameter: 38mm
Height: 13mm
Caliber name: Universal Genève 285
Movement type: manual wind
Year of Manufacture: 1944
Overall condition: 8 - worn regularly - light signs of wear
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