Universal Genève Tri-Compax 12285 Full Calendar Pink Gold

The Tri-Compax is one of the most iconic wristwatches ever created by Universal Genève. Few vintage chronographs combine technical sophistication and timeless elegance as harmoniously as this model. This particular example from 1950 stands out even further thanks to one of the most desirable case configurations ever produced: a large 38 mm case crafted from 18k pink gold — a combination manufactured only in very limited numbers and today regarded as one of the rarest versions of the Tri-Compax. Combined with its exceptional state of preservation, this makes the watch an irreplaceable collector's piece.

The original cream-colored dial presents itself like a true time capsule. Free from any significant signs of aging, it retains the same refined elegance it displayed more than 75 years ago. The applied pink gold Arabic numerals harmonize beautifully with the warm tone of the case, giving the watch an exceptionally elegant appearance. Despite the wealth of information on display, the dial never feels crowded: the date, Spanish day and month displays, moonphase, running seconds, and chronograph registers come together in a perfectly balanced composition. Even the light oxidation of the original dauphine hands simply enhances the authentic character of this remarkable watch.

With a diameter of 38 mm, the Tri-Compax was well ahead of its time. Combined with the 18k pink gold case, this execution ranks among the rarest versions of the model. The elegantly shaped rectangular chronograph pushers further enhance its refined appearance, while the deeply preserved gold hallmark together with the crisp reference and serial numbers on the case back clearly demonstrate just how little this watch has been worn throughout its lifetime.

Inside beats the hand-wound Universal Genève Caliber 481 — one of the most important full-calendar chronograph movements of its era. Combining a chronograph, full calendar, and moonphase indication in a highly sophisticated construction, it remains a milestone in classical watchmaking to this day.

This Tri-Compax is far more than an exceptionally complicated vintage wristwatch. It is a remarkably original collector's piece whose rare combination of a large pink gold case, pristine original dial, and outstanding condition makes it one of the most desirable executions of this legendary model.

Condition Report
Dial: Original cream-colored dial in excellent condition - very light authentic patina - applied pink gold Arabic numerals and indexes - original dauphine hands with light oxidation - signed "Universal Geneve Tri-Compax Swiss".

Case: 18k pink gold case in excellent condition - very light signs of wear - intact bevels - light storage marks on the case back - deeply preserved engravings of the reference and serial numbers on the case back - rectangular chronograph pushers - unsigned pink gold crown - deep and well-preserved gold hallmark - lug width: 20 mm.

Movement: Hand-wound Universal Genève Caliber 481, recently serviced - time deviation: +2 seconds/day - amplitude: 336° - beat error: 1.5 ms.

Serial number: 1446xxx

Int.Exe.: 1263021