Universal Genève - History, Models and Owners' Reviews

Universal Genève, founded in 1894, is a Swiss watch manufacturer renowned for its innovations and iconic designs. Over the decades, the brand has marked the history of watchmaking with flagship models and significant technical advances.

The Beginnings: 1894-1930

In 1894, in Le Locle, Switzerland, Numa-Emile Descombes and Ulysse Georges Perret founded the Universal Watch company, specializing in the production of movements for pocket watches and wristwatches. After the premature death of Descombes in 1897, Perret joined forces with Louis-Edouard Berthoud, and the company was renamed Perret & Berthoud. In 1919, the company moved to Geneva, thus strengthening its Swiss identity. During this period, Universal distinguished itself by the creation of chronograph wristwatches, a notable innovation at a time when pocket watches dominated the market.

Expansion et Innovations : 1930-1950

In the 1930s, Universal Genève became known for its high-quality chronographs. In 1936, the brand launches the “Compax”, the first wrist chronograph with two subdials, followed in 1944 by the "Tri-Compax", incorporating complications such as the complete calendar and the moon phase. These models met with international success, strengthening the reputation of the brand. In 1937, the company officially adopts the name Universal Genève, symbolizing its attachment to the city and its commitment to watchmaking excellence.

The Polerouter and Microtor Era: 1950-1970

In 1954, Universal Geneva presented the "Polerouter", designed by the young designer Gérald Genta. This model, initially named "Polarouter", celebrates the inaugural flights of the Scandinavian Airlines System (SAS) above the North Pole. The Polerouter is equipped with the micro-rotor caliber 215, an innovation that reduces the thickness of the movement while maintaining optimal performance. This period is marked by the introduction of the "Golden Shadow" series in 1965, equipped with caliber 66, then the thinnest automatic movement in the world with a thickness of only 2.3 mm.

Challenges and Adaptations: 1970-1990

The 1970s brought major challenges with the quartz crisis. Universal Genève, like many Swiss manufacturers, must adapt to this new technology. The brand introduces quartz models, but this transition affects its position in the market. In 1989, Universal Genève was acquired by the Hong Kong group Stelux Holdings International Ltd., also owner of the Cyma brand. This acquisition aims to revitalize the brand by combining Swiss heritage with a strategy oriented towards the Asian market.

Renaissance and Future Perspectives: 2000 to Today

In the early 2000s, Universal Genève attempted to reconnect with its heritage by relaunching iconic models and emphasizing innovation. In 2007, the brand presented a new collection based on Microtor, a technology it had initially developed in 1955. This initiative aims to attract fans of classic watches while integrating modern elements.

In December 2023, Stelux Holdings sells Universal Genève to Breitling SA, marking a new stage in the history of the brand. This acquisition by Breitling, another renowned Swiss watch house, raises hopes of a renaissance for Universal Genève, with plans to revive the production of new models by 2026.

Impact and Legacy

Universal Genève has played a crucial role in the evolution of watchmaking, particularly through its innovations in chronographs and automatic movements. Collaboration with renowned designers, such as Gérald Genta, has allowed the brand to create timeless models that remain popular with collectors. Despite the challenges encountered over the decades, the legacy of Universal Genève endures, and the recent acquisition by Breitling offers a promising outlook for the future of this historic brand.

In conclusion, Universal Genève embodies the innovation and elegance of Swiss watchmaking. With a history rich in iconic creations and technical advances, the brand has left an indelible mark on the world of watchmaking. The new era that is coming under the aegis of Breitling is impatiently awaited by enthusiasts and collectors, hoping for a renaissance to match its prestigious past.

To choose the Universal Genève model that best suits you, the Dialicious owners’ reviews are an essential resource for evaluating different models through real customer experience

(Updated November 2024)