Universal Geneve Tri-Compax 52218, 14k Gold, 1940's

A fine and rare example of the gorgeous Universal Geneve Tri-Compax Ref.52218. This stunning 14k Tri-Compax sums up why we love the model. The dial design is busy but perfectly in balance and the functionality of the watch is mesmerising and still remains a masterpiece today.

This particular example was purchased by its owner in 1964 in exceptional condition at the time and then lived unworn in a drawer since 1968. To put it mildly, you'll be hard pushed to find another Tri-Compax in anywhere near this condition! Put this against a £100k Patek and I'm not sure you wouldn't still lean towards the Tri-Compax - this really is one special watch!

A must-have in any vintage chronograph collection

Are you a dedicated Universal Genève collector looking for a new addition to your collection? Or are you a vintage watch enthusiast with a more eclectic taste who is looking for a unique 1940s Swiss Chrono? In any case, we're confident that this manual-wind, 35 mm case, Universal Genève Tri-Compax is the watch for you.

To begin with, there's the allure of its wonderfully patinated face. Then there's the historical significance of an extraordinarily intricate timepiece that formerly sat atop Universal's Compax collection. This watch has a lovely 14k gold case and a recently serviced Cal. 481 movement. Not to mention the possibility for future investment...

Technical & Condition: 

Presented in overall excellent condition. This is one of the finest examples of a gold Tri-Compax we've ever seen! The case remains sharp and free from major damage with only a few smaller scratches as expected for its age. The crown may have been replaced in the past. The dial has taken on a light but very pleasing even patina. The hands and moon-disk are both in exceptional condition. The movement has been fully serviced and finally, the watch is fitted with a new, third party leather strap.  

• Case size (exc. crown): 35mm
• Case material: 14k gold
• Movement: Manual wind calibre 481 (IMPORTANT: Universal’s Tri-Compax is known for being hard – and expensive – to work on. Make sure yours comes fully serviced (not just ‘inspected’) and guaranteed – like this example.)
• Strap/bracelet: 3rd party leather strap
• Box and papers: Our own

Make this Universal Genève Tri-Compax 22258 yours

Add this exceptional example of the Universal Geneve Tri-Compax 52218 to your collection and savour ownership of one of the finest examples of a 1940's Swiss three-register chronograph!

Shipping:

For orders placed before 2pm orders will be shipped the same day.

Your watch will be carefully packaged and shipped fully insured with leading global courier companies.

Delivery Prices:

Delivery within the UK is Free. Delivery within Europe is £30. Delivery for the Rest of the World is £50.

Returns:

Don't like it or change your mind? Return it for a full refund with our 14 day, no hassle returns on all sales. See the full conditions here.

The Watches

Are all watches authenticated?

All our watches pass through a double authentication process to insure their authenticity. We also provide detailed photos of the watch from all angles to allow you to undertake your own anlysis. Finally as with everything, if you have any questions please do not hesitate to reach out to our friendly team

What if something goes wrong with the watch

Whilst all our watches are fully serviced before sale, if something does go wrong, we'll repair it for free as part of our 1 year warranty

Do watches come with original box and papers?

It depends on the individual watch. You can see details under "The Basics" heading on this page. For the majority of vintage watches their original box and papers have been lost to time. Whilst they are nice to have, it’s important to note that “box and papers” DO NOT authenticate a watch despite what many in our trade say. It’s also important to realise alot of sellers (including some of the most well known in the UK) put together full sets of box, papers, hang tags etc by buying blank paperwork and boxes in the secondary market. This is a very regrettable, but unfortunately common occurrence in the trade but something we will never do!

How do I know it will fit?

For metal bracelets we provide the size it will currently fit in the description section of this page. If this measurement is too large or too small we are able to assist in either adding or removing links. We also offer this service, post service on a at-cost basis (i.e. we don't add a margin).

Can you change the strap?

Absolutely! If you don't like the current strap, let us know and we'll change it for free! We maintain a broad selection of styles and can also source straps to your specification free of charge.

Can you source something similar?

Absolutely! If its not quite what you’re looking for just get in touch and we can source one with our Free, No Obligation sourcing service. You can contact us on phone, live chat or simply submit the details of what you’re looking for on our “Find a Watch” page.

Payment

What payment options do you offer?

We accept payment by all leading credit and debit cards, ApplePay as well as bank transfer.

Do you offer financing?

Currently we don't offer financing but it’s something we're exploring.

Shipping & Returns

Can you ship an order to arrive on a certain day?

We can certainly try! We can request with our shipment partners for delivery on a certain day but ultimately the exact delivery date is subject to a number of factors outside our control.

How do I return a watch?

Simply let us know you want to send the watch back within the 14 return period and return it to us via Royal Mail Special Delivery. We’ll process your refund the same day we receive the watch back.

Terms & Conditions

Terms & Conditions

You can find our full terms and conditions here.