Universal Genève Chronograph for Berthoud

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SKU AS01538
SKU AS01538

Why We Love it

Universal Genève was founded in 1894 by Numa-Emile Descombes and Ulysse George Perret. In the brand's earliest days, it established itself as a manufacturer of in-house movements of exceptional quality. Universal Genève was also among the first watch manufacturers to specialize in wristwatches. In 1897, Louis Eduoard Berthoud--noted designer of complicated watch movements--joined the company. This ensured Universal Genève's supremacy in the development of complicated watches in the 20th Century.

It was under Berthoud's leadership that the brand's reputation as a producer of chronographs was solidified. Chronographs, in particular--namely the Compur and the Compax lines--attracted the attention of watch aficionados, aviators, and militaries around the world. Even the Royal Family of the Netherlands issued a royal charter for Universal Genève to outfit the Dutch military with its chronographs. 

As with Longines and Wittnauer, Universal Genève also released watches outside of Switzerland under another name. Berthoud's was used from the 1920s until the 1940s, in countries such as the Netherlands, New Zealand, France, South Africa--even Iraq. This chronograph dates from this period, roughly 1937.

The watch has definite traces of a Bauhaus influence, evident on the dial with its stark Arabic numerals and uncluttered layout. At 35mm it's a good size to suit modern tastes. Its curved lugs and uniquely-shaped crown are elegant accents.

And even though it may not have the name Universal Genève on the dial, the movement is Universal Genève's Caliber 385 manually-wound chronograph movement. The same movement found in their more famous Compur and Compax watches, the Caliber 385 is a variation of the earlier Caliber 285, with a flat hairspring instead of a Breguet hairspring. With elegant looks and a reliable movement, this chronograph is everything you could ask for. 

A:S Guarantee

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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.

Shipping & Returns

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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.

Universal Genève Chronograph for Berthoud

Universal Genève Chronograph for Berthoud

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Universal Genève Chronograph for Berthoud

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