1950s Universal Genève In 14k Gold With Bumper Movement
Why This Watch Matters
This classic and elegant Universal Genève in 14k yellow gold sets itself apart with a wide-set bezel that is perfectly proportioned for either a man's or woman’s wrist.
The Full Story
Watches from Universal Genève have been foundational purchases for a countless number of vintage enthusiasts for a few solid reasons. In particular, when looking at the brand's dress watches from the 1950s and 1960s, there is a clear vision for a simple, yet well-edited, design language that is observable throughout an entire generation of company's production. This present example follows that theme: The dial configuration is on point with a minimalist approach thanks to the applied “U” logo at the top with simple three, six, nine, and 12 hour numerals, and subtle dart minute markers. The luminous Alpha hands allow for clear legibility and are perfectly in line with the company's mid-century modern sensibilities. The case design, with its elongated and tapered lugs, combines with a wide-set bezel that gently slopes down, giving the 35mm case a larger-than-expected presence on the wrist. Interestingly, the 14k gold case for this present example is made by the Star Watch Case Company in Ludington, MI, which corresponds neatly with the U.S. Import mark “HOX” on the movement – evidence that this watch was destined for the U.S. market. The bumper movement, caliber 138SS, is a precursor to the company's self-winding calibers, and a nice reminder of the movement technology that was available during the 1950s.
The Fine Print
Maker: Universal Genève
Model: Automatic
Reference: N/A
Year: 1950s
Case No: 293489
Material: 14k gold
Dimensions: 35mm diameter; 12mm thickness
Crystal: Plexiglass
Lume: Yes, radium
Caliber: Self-winding caliber 138SS “bumper movement”
Bracelet/Strap: HODINKEE Bedford Watch Strap in Sky Blue
Lug Width: 19mm
Box/Papers: No
What we Love and What You Should Know
This UG is in good condition. The case has scratches throughout with some deeper scratches on the caseback. The caseback has an engraving, “Kansas Inspection Bureau J.H. Walter 1920 - 1957.” The dial is clean with some light patina. The lume on the hands has darkened more than the lume plots on the dial. The dial and movement are signed “Universal Genève,” and the case is signed, “Star Watch Case Company.” The crown is unsigned.
Product Information
Product Information
Shipping & Returns
Shipping & Returns
Description
Why This Watch Matters
This classic and elegant Universal Genève in 14k yellow gold sets itself apart with a wide-set bezel that is perfectly proportioned for either a man's or woman’s wrist.
The Full Story
Watches from Universal Genève have been foundational purchases for a countless number of vintage enthusiasts for a few solid reasons. In particular, when looking at the brand's dress watches from the 1950s and 1960s, there is a clear vision for a simple, yet well-edited, design language that is observable throughout an entire generation of company's production. This present example follows that theme: The dial configuration is on point with a minimalist approach thanks to the applied “U” logo at the top with simple three, six, nine, and 12 hour numerals, and subtle dart minute markers. The luminous Alpha hands allow for clear legibility and are perfectly in line with the company's mid-century modern sensibilities. The case design, with its elongated and tapered lugs, combines with a wide-set bezel that gently slopes down, giving the 35mm case a larger-than-expected presence on the wrist. Interestingly, the 14k gold case for this present example is made by the Star Watch Case Company in Ludington, MI, which corresponds neatly with the U.S. Import mark “HOX” on the movement – evidence that this watch was destined for the U.S. market. The bumper movement, caliber 138SS, is a precursor to the company's self-winding calibers, and a nice reminder of the movement technology that was available during the 1950s.
The Fine Print
Maker: Universal Genève
Model: Automatic
Reference: N/A
Year: 1950s
Case No: 293489
Material: 14k gold
Dimensions: 35mm diameter; 12mm thickness
Crystal: Plexiglass
Lume: Yes, radium
Caliber: Self-winding caliber 138SS “bumper movement”
Bracelet/Strap: HODINKEE Bedford Watch Strap in Sky Blue
Lug Width: 19mm
Box/Papers: No
What we Love and What You Should Know
This UG is in good condition. The case has scratches throughout with some deeper scratches on the caseback. The caseback has an engraving, “Kansas Inspection Bureau J.H. Walter 1920 - 1957.” The dial is clean with some light patina. The lume on the hands has darkened more than the lume plots on the dial. The dial and movement are signed “Universal Genève,” and the case is signed, “Star Watch Case Company.” The crown is unsigned.
