Universal Genève Polerouter Date

Why We Love It

You may have noticed that we're huge advocates for the Universal Genève Polerouter.

The Polerouter encapsulates what makes a vintage piece so special. Years of history, classic design, and visible marks of wear and enjoyment. When we have the opportunity to source honest examples - particularly with the increasingly coveted black dials, we always take advantage.

But this just your average Polerouter. This is an incredibly clean example with all the elements a collector desires. Its glossy gilt quadrant dial is in stunning condition with completely intact and perfectly aged luminous indices. It also features perfectly matching luminous dauphine hands, an applied logo, the classic asymmetrical date window with stylized font, and the awesome Calibre 69 micro-rotor movement inside. In short, just about perfect!

A cursory look around the interwebs will turn up Polerouters of all styles and conditions with a surprisingly broad pricing spectrum. Take it from us, not all Polerouters are created equal, and those that stand out - like this one - don't grow on trees.

Try it for yourself, and you'll see why we shout so loud about them whenever we get the chance!

The Story

Most of us, even the most diehard collectors, know only one watch designer by name: Gerald Genta.

The man behind the AP Royal Oak, the Patek Philippe Nautilus and the IWC Ingenieur, Genta changed the watch industry with his luxury stainless steel sports watches with sharp 70s lines and his characteristic integrated bracelet design.  But before he could pioneer haute horology, he had cut his teeth on a more approachable timepiece; the Universal Genève Polerouter.

The Polerouter was Genta's first watch design brought to market, penned by the young Swiss designer in his early 20s. The watch was a sales success and propelled Genta’s career forward (allowing for the greats such as the Royal Oak and the Nautilus.) The first Polerouter was released in 1954 (and originally called the POLARouter) to celebrate and promote Scandinavian Airlines’ Royal Viking polar flights between New York City, Los Angeles and Europe. The flights forged a new route over the North Pole, reducing flight times between the two continents. Flying over the North Pole presented a unique set of challenges for a watch, and the Polerouter was designed to be highly resistant to magnetic fields (in addition to the usual shock and water resistance) so as to maintain accuracy during the trip.

Our Pledge

Analog:Shift stands behind the authenticity of our products in perpetuity.

Condition

Since our pieces are vintage or pre-owned, please expect wear & patina from usage and age. Please read each item description and examine all product images.

Warranty

We back each Analog:Shift vintage timepiece with a one-year mechanical warranty from the date of purchase.

International Buyers

Please contact us prior to purchase for additional details on shipping and payment options.

All of our watches include complementary insured shipping within the 50 states.

Most of our products are on hand and will ship directly from our headquarters in New York City. In some cases, watches will be shipped directly from one of our authorized partners.

We generally ship our products via FedEx, fully insured, within 5 business days of purchase. An adult signature is required for receipt of all packages for insurance purposes. Expedited shipping is available at an additional cost. We are also happy to hand deliver your purchase in Manhattan or you may pick it up at our showroom.

Returns must be sent overnight or by priority international delivery, fully insured and paid for by the customer. A restocking fee may apply. Watches must be returned in the same condition as initially shipped.

We welcome international buyers, please contact us prior to purchase for additional details on shipping and payment options.