Universal Genève was founded on 18 January 1894 in Le Locle, Switzerland, by Numa-Emile Descombes and Ulysse Georges Perret under the name Universal Watch, and quickly became known for complicated in-house chronographs. In 1936 the brand released the Compax, the first-ever triple-register chronograph — a layout now standard across the entire industry — followed by the Tri-Compax in 1944. Its most celebrated design arrived in 1954: the Polerouter, an anti-magnetic watch commissioned by Scandinavian Airlines System for crews flying new transpolar routes, designed by a 23-year-old freelancer named Gérald Genta, who would later go on to design the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak and the Patek Philippe Nautilus. Universal Genève's watches were worn by figures including Eric Clapton and racing driver's wife Nina Rindt, before the quartz crisis sent the brand into decline; it has since been revived under Breitling ownership.
Explore our selection of Universal Genève watches, presented with detailed descriptions and real photographs. Every timepiece undergoes a thorough authenticity and condition inspection by our certified watchmaker before shipment, including verification against The Watch Register.
Based in Geneva since 2021, WATCHOYSTER combines professional watch expertise, transparent service and a commitment to authenticity.
Every watch includes 24 months of Official Brand Service Coverage. Eligible repairs are performed at authorised brand service centres, with approved costs covered by us.
All Universal Genève watches listed on our website are physically available for purchase, with fully insured worldwide delivery. Delivery typically takes 4–7 business days, depending on the watch and destination. Individual estimated delivery dates are displayed on each product page.
Personal collection at our Geneva office is available by appointment after purchase.
Our 14-day return policy covers material discrepancies between the watch and its description or photographs.
Flexible financing is available to eligible Swiss residents for selected watches priced up to CHF 10,000, subject to the financing provider’s terms and approval.
