Universal Genève Steel Chronograph Wristwatch
Record status
Individual type · partial
Period
circa 1940s
According to Christie's, this Universal Genève chronograph wristwatch dates to circa the 1940s. The watch features a 35 mm steel case housing a manually wound movement.
Its black dial incorporates three subsidiary registers, an outer telemetric calibration, and a base 3000 scale. Rectangular pushers flank the winding crown on the right side of the case, and the watch is fitted with a textured black strap. Christie's notes that the timepiece was offered without its original box or papers.
Evidence at a glance
- Linked sources
- 1
- Photograph views
- 1
- Catalogue references
- 0
Counts describe this entry’s documentation, not authenticity, rarity or completeness. Photographs may show one specimen; check each caption and licence.
Technical characteristics
- Type
- Chronograph
- Circa
- 1940s
- Functions
- Chronograph
- Dial Color
- Black
- Case Diameter
- 35mm
- Case Material
- Steel
- Movement Type
- Manual
- Place recorded
- Switzerland
- Maker / attribution
- Universal Genève
Design
- Visible features
- • Three subsidiary dials arranged at the 3, 6, and 9 o'clock positions. • Black dial with gilt markings, including an outer base 3000 tachymeter scale and telemeter track. • Rectangular chronograph pushers positioned at 2 and 4 o'clock flanking the winding crown. • Textured black leather or composite strap attached to straight lugs.
- Identity and Case Construction
- According to Christie's, this Universal Genève steel chronograph wristwatch dates to circa the 1940s. The case is catalogued as measuring 35 mm in diameter. Visible observation records straight lugs and a winding crown flanked by rectangular pushers at the 2 and 4 o'clock positions. The auctioneer's condition report characterizes the case as having "heavy scratches and nicks throughout" and notes that the crystal displays "light scratches and nicks." The case back is reported to have "moderate scratches and heavy nicks."
- Dial Configuration and Observed Components
- The dial is catalogued as black. Observations record three subsidiary dials positioned at 3, 6, and 9 o'clock, along with gilt markings that include an outer base 3000 tachymeter scale and telemeter track. The condition report states that the dial "has developed a heavy patina with fading and spotting." The auctioneer explicitly states that "the hands are not original to the watch." In addition, visual observation records that the timepiece is fitted with a textured black leather or composite strap.
- Movement Functionality and Source Limitations
- The watch houses a manually wound movement featuring chronograph functionality. Christie's notes that "the movement is running at the time of cataloging," but states that "the chronograph and pushers do not function properly" and that the movement was not tested for accuracy. The auction documentation does not record a movement caliber, reference number, or case serial number. Christie's also lists "BOX: No" and "PAPERS: No," indicating the absence of original packaging and documentation in this lot.
Identification
- Source note
- Facts transcribed from the linked source listing or collection record. Attribution and specifications are source-reported and have not been independently authenticated.
Catalogue references
No catalogue numbers recorded. Numbers are only published once transcribed from a verified edition of a standard catalogue — they are never inferred.
Research required
- Research required: Christie's condition report specifies that the hands are not original to the watch.
- Research required: Christie's reports that the chronograph and pushers do not function properly.
- Research required: Movement caliber, reference, and serial numbers are not disclosed.