Universal Geneve Tri-Compax Exotic Dial 881101/03

Is this the coolest Universal Geneve ever made? It's certainly right up there as far as we're concerned. Any 881101 is a really rad watch, and highly collectible. They're most commonly known outside of the UG collectors circle for the '01' and '02' references, which is coloquially referred to as the Clapton and Evil Clapton respectively, as the famous artist and watch collector was frequently seen wearing one in the 70's. Those watches are super cool, and amongst the most collectible Universal Geneve's for very good reason, but this particular '03' version, known to collectors as an 'Exotic' dial, sits on another level and is one of the most collectible and sought after Tri-Compax's.

Released in 1968, the 881101/03 features the usual dial layout and complications seen on the earlier references, but this time with a slate grey dial with white sub-dials, cream outer track with blue second scale, and elongated tritium filled markers. The combination of these three elements combined with the red script for the day and month, red-tipped chrono hand and broad, white tritium hands is absolutely incredible in person.

This particular example is in phenomenal condition. The 36mm Twisted Lug HF case is in very sharp condition, with wear typical of its age.

The dial itself is lovely. Shows some minor spotting, and some chips and stains around the outer edge of the outer track. Tritium on the markers is full, as are the hands. Hour and minute hands show some degradation to their coating which is typical. Sub-dials are in excellent condition.

Dot over ninety (DON) bezel in amazing condition, with a uniform fade. Reference number is barely visible on the back, though is present.

Mounted to a Gay Frères bracelet with correct 68 date code. Sized for a roughly 7.25in wrist, it also comes with two spare links.

Serviced in Dec 2022 by well known independent Max Schweizer, all functions are operating well and keeping pretty close to COSC time at over 300 degrees of amplitude. Chrono seconds and minute occasionally reset too far, but a second press of the reset sends them back to 0.

Comes as watch-only, with service receipt and two extra links.

This is a phenomenal example of an exceedingly rare watch (less than 300 presumed to have been made), and with the renewed interest in UG with the recent news of Brietling taking them over, don't miss your chance on this rare beauty.

Brand: Universal Geneve

Year: Circa-1968

Model #: 881101/03

Case Material: Stainless Steel

Case details: 36mm

Movement: UG Cal. 281 manual wind

Dial: Exotic

Paraphernalia: Service receipt and two spare links.

Grading: Excellent vintage condition

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