Universal Genève Compur 22519 - 37 mm - Black Dial

This Universal Genève Compur Reference 22519 from the early 1940s is an exceptionally well-preserved example of the manufacture’s early two-register chronographs. Particularly remarkable are its unusually large 37 mm stainless-steel case for the period, the deep black original dial, and its excellent overall condition. The combination of generous proportions, rectangular chronograph pushers and a black dial gives the watch a remarkably strong yet elegant presence for a chronograph of this era.

With a diameter of 37 mm, the stainless-steel case ranks among the larger Universal Genève chronographs of its generation. In the early 1940s, when men’s wristwatches were generally considerably smaller, these proportions gave the watch an impressive presence on the wrist. The long, clearly defined lugs and rectangular pushers emphasize the functional character of the chronograph. The caseback is deeply stamped with the serial number and reference number, both of which remain exceptionally well preserved. The inside of the caseback bears the historic Universal Genève emblem as well as the designation “ENVERSTEEL”.

The true highlight of this watch, however, is its original black dial, which remains in remarkably beautiful condition after more than 80 years. Large Arabic numerals and central hands filled with luminous material create a striking contrast against the black background. The subsidiary seconds are positioned at 9 o’clock, the 45-minute chronograph counter at 3 o’clock. A finely executed minute track and the outer tachymeter scale marked “BASE 1000” add further visual depth to the dial. Its clean design and generous dial surface give the watch a surprisingly modern appearance even today.

Below the 12 o’clock position, the dial is signed “UNIVERSAL GENEVE”, while the historic model designation “COMPUR” appears above 6 o’clock. The Compur name can be found on Universal Genève’s early two-register chronographs; during the following years, the designation “Uni-Compax” was increasingly used for this type of chronograph. The present watch therefore belongs to an early and particularly interesting generation in the development of Universal Genève chronographs.

Inside is the Universal Genève Calibre 285, a classic manually wound chronograph movement with column-wheel control. Its sophisticated chronograph mechanism is a fine example of the technical expertise through which Universal Genève had already established an excellent reputation as a manufacturer of complicated wristwatches during this period.

Overall, this Compur combines features that are increasingly difficult to find together today: a large 37 mm stainless-steel case, an original black dial, the early Calibre 285 and an exceptionally fine state of preservation. In particular, the combination of its size and black dial gives this early Universal Genève chronograph tremendous character and a far greater presence on the wrist than one might expect from a watch more than 80 years old.

Condition
Dial: original black dial in excellent condition - large luminous Arabic numerals with evenly aged luminous material - original hands with original, naturally patinated luminous material - outer “BASE 1000” tachymeter scale exceptionally well preserved - signed: "UNIVERSAL GENEVE" and "COMPUR".

Case: 37 mm stainless-steel case in excellent condition - clearly defined case geometry and beautifully preserved long lugs - rectangular chronograph pushers - light age-appropriate signs of wear and use - reference and serial numbers on the caseback deeply stamped and exceptionally well preserved - inside of the caseback with historic Universal Genève emblem and “ENVERSTEEL” signature - lug width: 19 mm.

Movement: Universal Genève manually wound Calibre 285 - column-wheel chronograph - fully functional - rate: +5 seconds/day - amplitude: 276° - beat error: 1.6 ms.

Serial number: 935xxx (1943)

Int.Exe.: 486242