The Universal Genève Tri-Compax can be found in many variants, both in case-shape and dial-configuration, this reference 881101/02 being a rare variant as it features a distinctive black dial with white sub-registers. Sized at 36mm and 13mm thick, it has a unique presence on the wrist, complemented by the rounded pump pushers. Colloquially referred to as an “Evil Clapton”, the watch was made famous by legendary guitarist Eric Clapton, who was often photographed wearing a similar reference (881101).
It is understandable why Tri-Compaxes are cherished by collectors; the sub-dials have fantastic proportionality, with vintage charm to their aesthetic. ‘UNIVERSAL GENÈVE', 'TRI-COMPAX' and 'SWISS' are referenced on the dial, with original tritium dots marking the hours. Steel hands with luminous inserts indicate the hours and minutes, while the sub-dials display standard black, stick hands. This complex watch has a thirty-minute register at three o'clock, a twelve-hour register at six o'clockand the sub-seconds register at nine o'clock. At noon, the dial features an aperture for the moon-phase and sub-dial to show the date. On both sides, two apertures reveal the day and the month (in Spanish), respectively.
The case of this ref. 881101/02 Tri-Compax remains unpolished. On the reverse, the watch’s unique serial numbers retain strong definition. The original plexi of this piece also correctly displays the floating ‘U’ symbol, with signs of being previously polished.
The ref. 881101/02 can be found archived on page 355 of Pietro Sala's Universal Watch Genève reference book. Powered by the in-house Cal. 281, it features a triple calendar, chronograph and moonphase. The name ‘Tri-Compax’ stems from this, denoting that the watch has three complications. These complications can be set through the small pushers, found on the left side of the case. With Universal Genève being the first maker of a wristwatch with two chronograph pushers, this stunning piece belongs to a historical horological lineage.
This watch comes with a black leather racing strap and a stainless steel tang buckle.
Viewings can be arranged in Central London by appointment.
This vintage, stainless-steel Universal Genève Tri-Compax Ref. 881101/02 is in excellent condition, with an unpolished case and original dial. It has its 'U' signed crown and plexi-glass, with a complete original handset (as well as correctors). The watch is guaranteed for authenticity and comes with a two-year mechanical warranty from A Collected Man.
