1970s Universal Geneve Ref. 842114

The History

The 1970s was an altogether interesting time in the watch industry. Some brands stayed true to their roots, others innovated with design, and others looked to quartz for a competitive edge. Universal Geneve seemed to try all of these strategies but could never quite find the success that they had had in the decades prior. This would ultimately lead to the demise of the brand but none of this means that the Universal Geneve watches from this era should be overlooked. Watches like the one seen here may not represent the brand in the way that a Polerouter or a Tri-Compax does but it is still, in all measurable ways, a great watch with a great movement that can be had at a reasonable price.

The Reference

The Universal Geneve reference 842114 is certainly a product of its time. In the 1970s the style dujour was certainly leaning toward dressier watches, often with rectangular or tonneau cases and simple dials often featuring roman numerals. Its the Cartier design formula and it works not only on their watches but also on many other watches from this time period. For us through this watch is all about its case shape. It elegantly walks the line between rectangle and tonneau and is attenuated by a single continuous bevel that runs along each side from lug to lug. The beauty is in its simplicity.

The Case

The 28mm stainless steel case is in very good condition with no major flaws to note. The signed caseback, signed crown, and crystal are correct for the watch and thought to be original.

The Dial and Hands

As mentioned above, the dial and hands are classically styled for a dressier watch such as this with a simple two hand design over a silver dial with printed roman numerals and no chapter ring or minute markers. This combination has been used by almost every watch brand at one point or another because it works so well. The condition of the dial and hands are excellent with no major flaws to note. All components are correct and through to be original.

The Movement

This watch is powered by a hand-wound Universal Geneve calibre 42 movement. The watch is winding and running. The service history is unknown.

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