1940s Universal Genéve Aero-Compax

Why This Watch Matters

This Aero-Compax offers more than chronograph capabilities, its sub-register at 12 o'clock allows to keep track of an appointment, which is pretty unusual and totally awesome.

The Full Story

The Aero-Compax is one of the more unusual models produced by the conservative maker, Universal Genève. The one you see here is an older example from the 1940s with four subsidiary dials. The most interesting one is the second time display at noon, while the other three serve as subsidiary-seconds and chronograph registers. This upper register allows to input a specific time and keep it as reference, the hands are indeed only moving from the action of the left crown. The reason this example is so great is the patinated dial with homogeneous spotting throughout. It gives it that perfect vintage look, which combined with the unusual complication makes this a fantastic collector’s piece.

The Fine Print

Maker: Universal Genève
Model: Aero-Compax
Reference: 22414
Year: Circa 1940s
Case No: 826281
Material: Stainless steel
Dimensions: 37mm diameter; 13mm thickness
Sapphire Crystal: No, plexiglass
Lume: No
Caliber: manual-winding caliber 291 movement
Bracelet/Strap: Black Alligator strap
Lug Width: 19mm
Box/Papers: No

What we Love and What You Should Know

The case shows signs of wear with some light scratches throughout. The dial, albeit beautiful, does have some light spotting throughout, but it is consistent (and a big part of why we love the watch!). The blued steel handsets have maintained their bright blue hue. The buttons are still crisp and the chronograph function is still in working order.