Universal Genève Aero-Compax 224107 - First Series

This Universal Genève Aero-Compax reference 224107 from the 1940s immediately captivates with its unique patina, the spectacular tropical discolouration of the sub-registers and its exceptionally warm vintage character. At the same time, it ranks among the most technically innovative chronographs of its era. Furthermore, the present example belongs to the rare early first series of the Aero-Compax. With its large 38 mm stainless steel case, screw-back case, round chronograph pushers and highly complex dial layout, it represents a generation of early chronographs that was far ahead of its time.

Many of these features may seem commonplace today – but in the 1940s they were truly revolutionary. While most chronographs of the period measured only 33 to 35 mm in diameter, featured rectangular pushers and snap-on casebacks, Universal Genève consistently pursued modern technical solutions with the Aero-Compax. The round pushers significantly improved water resistance, the screw-back case increased the robustness of the watch and the larger diameter provided far better legibility – an important advantage especially for military and professional use during that era.

The absolute highlight of this example is without any doubt the spectacular original dial. The natural ageing of both the main dial and the four sub-registers gives the watch an exceptionally warm and characterful vintage appearance. Particularly attractive is the tropical discolouration of the sub-registers, creating a beautiful contrast against the main dial. Furthermore, this example belongs to the rare early first series of the Aero-Compax, identifiable by the elegantly curved “Universal Genève” signature positioned beneath the upper sub-register – a characteristic detail that was replaced by a straight signature on the later second series. Together with the diamond-shaped hands, the luminous Arabic numerals and the tachymeter scale, the result is an exceptionally harmonious overall appearance.

Another remarkable feature of this rare Aero-Compax is the so-called “Memento” or “Memo” dial at 12 o’clock, which can be adjusted via the additional crown at 9 o’clock. At first glance, one might assume it to be a second time zone display. In reality, however, Universal Genève developed an innovative reminder function for which the brand even received two patents. A pilot, for example, could set the time of a mission briefing or departure on this sub dial. The hands would then remain fixed independently from the main time display, serving as a visual reminder – essentially functioning as an early “silent alarm”.

The watch is powered by the high-quality manual-winding Universal Genève caliber 285, a reliable and technically sophisticated chronograph movement of its time. Particularly interesting is the “HOX” signature on the movement bridge – the historic US import code for Universal Genève.

Finding an Aero-Compax reference 224107 in such original and authentic condition has become extraordinarily difficult today. Over the decades, many of these early waterproof chronographs had components replaced or underwent restoration work. We are therefore especially pleased to offer this exceptional example. The presence and vintage charm of this approximately 85-year-old chronograph are simply breathtaking.

Condition report
Dial: original four-register dial with natural, age-related and even patina – intact blue tachymeter scale at the outer edge of the dial – signed “Universal Geneve Aero-Compax Swiss”.

Case: exceptionally well-preserved 38 mm case – hardly any signs of wear – clearly visible reference and serial numbers engraved on the caseback – two original unsigned crowns.

Movement: manual-winding Universal Genève caliber 285 running perfectly – timegrapher results: rate deviation: +2s/day, amplitude: 251, beat error: 3.3.

Case number: 1095xxx (1944)

Int.Exe.: 2563116