Universal Genève - "Petite Époque" - No reserve price - 511627 - Women - 1978

Offered in this auction by Second Vintage This elegant timepiece from Universal Genève represents the distinct design language of the late 1970s, combining a petite, geometric profile with a sophisticated minimalist aesthetic. Known as the "couturier of watchmaking," Universal Genève created this reference to serve as a refined dress watch, featuring a striking deep black dial and unique stirrup-style lugs that evoke the equestrian-inspired designs popular among luxury houses of the era. Brand: Universal Genève Reference Number: 511627 Serial Number: 3623437 Movement: Manual Wind Dial: Minimalist Black Case Size: 21 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Gold Plated Production Year: 1978 Condition: Good vintage condition. The watch presents an honest vintage appearance with visible patina and oxidation on the case plating, while the dial remains in exceptional condition. Timegrapher result: +50s+56s/day. Dial and Hands The watch features a stunning, deep black dial that serves as a perfect backdrop for the applied gold "U" logo and the crisp white printing. The dial is in excellent preservation, showing no visible spotting or damage. It is fitted with delicate gold pencil-style hands that provide excellent contrast against the dark surface, maintaining the minimalist dress watch aesthetic. Case and Crystal The 21mm square case is gold plated with a stainless steel caseback. The design is characterized by its distinctive ornate lugs, which add significant visual interest and a jewelry-like quality to the piece. The case shows signs of age and wear consistent with a watch from the late 1970s, including visible oxidation and tarnish on the gold plating, particularly around the lugs and edges, adding to its vintage character. The crystal is clear and presents well. Movement Powering the watch is a Universal Genève signed manual wind movement with 17 jewels. The movement is clean and visually appealing. Timegrapher testing shows the watch running between +50s and +56s/day, which indicates a healthy movement offering reliable vintage performance. Strap The watch is fitted with a classic black leather strap with a textured grain finish. The strap is in very good condition and is paired with a gold-tone buckle, perfectly complementing the black and gold theme of the watch head. Condition This timepiece is in good vintage condition. While the case exhibits visible signs of aging, oxidation, and surface wear typical of a gold-plated watch from this period, the dial remains in near-mint condition, preserving the watch's elegance. It is a running timepiece with a charming, honest vintage presence. Dimensions The case measures 21mm in width excluding the crown, making it a petite and discreet dress option suitable for smaller wrists or those who prefer classic, understated sizing. Remarks This Universal Genève is a stylish example of 1970s dress watch design, offering a "tuxedo" look with its stark black and gold contrast. The unique lug architecture sets it apart from standard square watches, making it a distinctive accessory for the collector who appreciates design-forward vintage pieces. History Universal Genève is one of the most respected names in Swiss watchmaking history, celebrated for legendary models like the Polerouter and the Tri-Compax. By the 1970s, the brand was experimenting with bold shapes and ultra-thin profiles, cementing its reputation for high-style horology. This specific reference captures the elegance of that era, produced just before the quartz crisis fully transformed the industry. / Second Vintage SKU: UNI-UGX-0009