Numa Emile Descombes and Ulysse Georges Perret founded Universal Genève in 1894 in Le Locle (Neuchâtel, Switzerland). During the 1930s and 1960s, the company boomeed under the direction of Raoul Perret, son of the founder. Universal watches stood out for their elegance and mechanical technique and became an immediate success. Many were the legendary models appeared in this period: Compax, Aero-Compax and Tri-Compax (1930-40), Polerouter (1954) etc. In Late 1800s, early 1900s Universal specialized in the production of fine and elegant pocket watches. Before the arrival of wrist watches, pocket watches were a huge business for Universal which developed and created true works of art. Universal pocket watches are still the object of desire of many vintage watch collectors today. In fact, the charm of these objects is undeniable, especially if with rare dial configurations and perfectly preserved like this example.
The present Universal Genève pocket watch is a beautiful chronograph dating back to the 1930s.
Housed in a yellow gold case measuring approximately 39 mm in diameter, this classic timepiece features a striking white dial adorned with vibrant blue and red scales: a blue tachymeter scale marked ‘BASE 1000’ along the outermost edge, and a red telemeter scale for distance calculation. The dial layout is sophisticated yet functional, with two applied Arabic numerals at 3 and 9, complemented by applied faceted baton hour markers. The chronograph configuration includes a small seconds subdial at 6 o’clock and a 30-minute register at 12 o’clock. Elegant gold leaf hands and a slender chronograph hand complete the vintage aesthetic.
Inside beats the renowned Universal Genève Calibre 285, a manual-wind chronograph movement well-regarded for its precision and reliability during this golden era of watchmaking.
In 1977, Rolex decided to revamp the Datejust, one of its most successful and iconic models. The introduction of the 160XX references brought several improvements: the 18kt gold versions now featured a sapphire crystal instead of the previous acrylic glass, providing greater durability, scratch resistance, and a brighter dial appearance. The movement was also upgraded to the more reliable and precise caliber 3035, which introduced the quickset date function. Production of the 160XX series continued until the late 1980s, when it was permanently discontinued from the Rolex catalog.
This specific Datejust ref. 16018 in 18kt yellow gold is a beautiful example of the reference. Purchased from an Italian authorized dealer in 1990, this watch has been carefully preserved over the years. The case maintains its original lines and hallmarks, with the dealer’s name and Schlumberger elegantly engraved on the caseback — a detail that adds a unique touch to this piece’s provenance.
The champagne dial is in excellent condition, retaining its original brilliance and warmth. It is fitted with its correct period components, including the T Swiss T dial, caliber 3035 movement, 16000 caseback, and Twinlock crown. The watch comes with a leather strap and original Rolex buckle, and is complete with its original box and guarantee.
An outstanding timepiece for collectors, combining timeless aesthetics, excellent preservation, and full original accessories.
Few watches embody timeless elegance and Art Deco sophistication like the Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso. Originally created in 1931 for British polo players who needed to protect the fragile crystal of their timepieces, the Reverso’s ingenious reversible case design has since become an icon of both practicality and style. Over the decades, the model has evolved through countless variations while retaining its unique spirit and architectural lines.
This particular example is a beautiful Reverso Classique, reference 250.2.86, crafted in warm 18k pink gold. Its classic rectangular case houses a hand-wound Jaeger-LeCoultre movement that exemplifies the brand’s tradition of fine watchmaking. The watch features a striking black dial, a rarer and more modern twist that contrasts elegantly with the rose gold case.
Sold in 1990, this watch comes complete with its original Jaeger-LeCoultre clasp, ensuring the overall coherence and authenticity of the piece. It is also accompanied by its box and a warranty from the renowned Monetti boutique in Naples, a well-known retailer of fine timepieces.
Whether you are a collector drawn to the Reverso’s storied history or simply appreciate a discreet but unmistakable statement of style, this manual-wind Reverso Classique in pink gold, preserved in excellent overall condition, makes for an outstanding addition to any collection.
The Patek Philippe Calatrava Reference 96 is a true landmark in the history of wristwatch design and a timeless symbol of refined elegance. Introduced in 1932, it was among the very first models created under the Stern family’s stewardship of Patek Philippe, marking the beginning of a new era for the Maison. Produced until 1973, the Ref. 96 appeared in numerous configurations of case materials and dial designs, reflecting the evolving tastes and style codes of each decade.
With its 31mm case, perfectly proportioned for the era, the Ref. 96 epitomized the purest essence of the Calatrava dress watch: understated, balanced, and eternally sophisticated. While the reference was produced predominantly in yellow gold, rare examples were made in pink gold, white gold, and in the rarest instances, platinum and stainless steel — as seen in this remarkable piece.
This particular example, manufactured in 1937 and accompanied by its Extract from the Archives confirming its production and sale, features an exceptionally rare dial configuration: applied Arabic numerals combined with black hour markers — a highly unusual and desirable pairing. The dial is further elevated by the retailer signature “Eberhard Milano”.
Powering this timepiece is the renowned 12-120 manually wound caliber, with subsidiary seconds at 6 o’clock, underscoring the classic layout of this reference. The watch remains in outstanding condition, retaining its sharp lugs and full case proportions and the dial displays a hard enamel signature that is raised and visible, a testament to its careful preservation over the decades.
This Omega pocket watch from the 1930s is a beautiful example of the brand’s classic style and careful craftsmanship. The case has an unusual octagonal shape and is made entirely of solid platinum, giving it a sense of luxury and strength that stands the test of time.
The dial is clear and elegant, with Arabic numerals that are each set with small, sparkling diamonds — a detail that adds a touch of brightness and makes this piece truly special. The hands are slim and easy to read, matching the refined look of the watch.
The back of the watch is just as impressive, decorated with more diamonds and special engraved letters that make it unique and personal. These details tell a little story of the past, making this pocket watch more than just an accessory — it’s a piece of history. Inside, the watch has a manual-wind movement, a sign of true traditional watchmaking.
Combining precious materials, elegant design, and reliable mechanics, this Omega pocket watch is a true treasure for any collector. It’s a perfect example of how luxury and timeless style can come together in one piece, even after nearly a hundred years.