Universal Genève Compax - Steel chronograph watch with cream dial

Universal Genève is a Geneva-based maison founded in 1894 by Numa-Émile Descombes and Ulysse-Georges Perret. The maison contributed to several chapters of watchmaking history, notably by collaborating with Gérald Genta on the Polerouter in 1954. Acquired at the end of 2023 by a consortium led by Georges Kern, CEO of Breitling, the brand is making its official return in 2026.

Here we present the Compax, a famous vintage chronograph fitted with two pushers: start/stop on one side, reset on the other.

The steel reference 22296, from the 1950s, features a white dial with burgundy graduations, two subdials, and a beautiful natural cream patina. The hour markers and Arabic numerals have slightly turned golden over time, giving the dial a warm and even tone. The gilt Dauphine hands are original. Steel case, fitted with the in-house Universal Genève caliber 281 manual-winding column-wheel movement. The strap is burgundy ostrich, with a generic pin buckle.

Characteristics

• Brand: Universal Genève
• Model: Compax
• Reference: 22296
• Period: circa 1950
• Case: steel, two pushers
• Dial: patinated white, two subdials, Arabic numerals and gilt markers
• Hands: original gilt Dauphine
• Strap: burgundy ostrich
• Movement: Universal Genève caliber 281, manual-winding mechanical, column wheel
• Condition: very good vintage condition, even natural patina