Universal Watch – Compur 18kt. Gold 1934 Hinged-Case Chronograph – Cal. 292

Here is a solid 18kt. Gold 1934 Universal watch Compur with a double hinged case and its original silvered “snail” dial.

The Compur was launched in 1934 as Universal’s first two-pusher chronograph, the Compur is the family that established the manufacture as a chronograph specialist before the Compax, the Tri-Compax, and the Dato-Compax followed.

The dial is signed “Universal Watch,” not “Universal Genève”, the name change occurred in 1937, placing this watch in the earliest years of Compur production. The Compur was discontinued in the early 1940s when the Uni-Compax line replaced it, and the relatively small number of surviving watches from this first period makes it one of the less commonly encountered Universal chronographs.

The Cal. 292 is the 14½-ligne version of Universal’s chronograph calibre, the same architecture as the Cal. 285 used in the majority of Compurs, but in the larger, pocket watch-derived diameter. This is the calibre that explains the 37.8 mm case: where the Cal. 285 fitted into cases around 35 mm, the 292 required a larger case, and the result is an oversize wristwatch.

The solid 18kt yellow gold case with double-hinged construction measures 37.8 mm. The case is in good condition, the hinges are firm and function correctly; the carrure shows some small dents on the 9 o’clock side. The caseback is correctly signed and numbered.

The original silvered “snail” dial with spiral tachymeter scale and Arabic numerals at 12 and 6 is in a very good condition, it shows an even and pleasant time patina. The hands are original and iconic of this model.

The watch is fitted with a new leather strap.

This watch has been serviced in-house and is in good working order. It is delivered with our six-month guarantee and our originality certificate. Worldwide shipping is available and inquiries are welcome.