1967 Universal Geneve Tri-Compax Ref. 881101/01 'Eric Clapton' MK1

By the 1930s, Universal Genève recognized a need for chronograph wristwatches for military and motorsport applications, and answered that need with the introduction of the Compur in 1933 and the Aero Compax in 1936. It is with these chronographs that Universal Genève excelled and pushed into the public view; their Compax line of chronographs. Perhaps the most iconic variation of the Compax, which has gained a kind of reverential reputation that very few other chronographs have attained, is the Tri-Compax. Debuting in the 1950s, the Tri-Compax features a full calendar--day, date, month--and a moon-phase complication in addition to the registers requisite of chronographs. The "Eric Clapton" Tri-Compax was introduced in 1967 and the nickname was given because of the numerous times the man itself wore it.

 

The Tri-Compax is a fantastic example of sixties design; large thick metallic hour and minute hands, register hands standing out in contrast to the subs, a bright chronograph sweep hand, again, contrasting with the dial with printed baton markers with luminescent ends, giving it a spark of brightness. The lugs are perhaps the favorite part of this design for collectors; twisted outwards in a very seductive way.

This example here is part of the early versions, with a MK1 dial, and remains in original condition.

 

The case remains sharp and unpolished, as well as the case back which still shows both serial and reference numbers clearly visible.

 

The dial is lovely, having acquired a slight creamy tone. It presents original patina on the lume plots that have aged to a lovely cheesy color (something very difficult to see on these as the tend to blacken).

 

The movement looks very clean and it’s running great, as it has been fully serviced by our watchmaker.

 

The original DON bezel remains in near mint condition with no big scratches or dents.

 

It comes on the original signed crystal that is free from scratches.

 

Indeed, this is an eye-catching watch with pure vintage essence. Not to mention the rarity.