Ultrathin Universal Genève, 18K Gold Pocket Watch. Switzerland, c. 1955

Ultrathin Universal Genève 18K Gold Pocket Watch. Switzerland, c. 1955

This refined Universal Genève pocket watch, crafted in Switzerland around 1955, perfectly embodies the clean, functional and elegant aesthetic of mid-century Swiss watchmaking. A true ultrathin timepiece with minimalist lines, its discreet appearance hides a technical sophistication highly prized by collectors and design enthusiasts alike.

The case is made of 18K solid gold, clearly hallmarked “18K / 0.750” inside the back cover, along with the Universal Genève shield and the watch’s serial number. The case back is smooth and polished, with an engraved set of stylized initials that adds a touch of personality and history. The condition is excellent, with no dents or deep scratches and only minimal signs of gentle wear.

The dial is a model of minimalist Swiss design: black slanted Arabic numerals on a white satin background, finely blued dauphine-style hands, and the Universal Genève logo centered at 12 o’clock. It is beautifully proportioned, harmonious and legible, reflecting the visual clarity of the postwar modernist era.

Inside, the manual-wind mechanical movement is signed by Universal Genève and is clean, precise and well-constructed, with visible ruby jewels and quality finishing. The watch is in perfect working condition and keeps excellent time, making it not only a beautiful vintage piece but also a reliable timekeeper.

A superb blend of Swiss elegance, fine materials and mechanical precision, ideal for collectors or lovers of vintage horology. It also makes a truly distinguished gift, refined, useful and full of charm.

Measurements: 4.1 cm (1.61 in). Weight: 29.8 g.

History of Universal Genève

Universal Genève is one of the most prestigious names in Swiss watchmaking, founded in 1894 in Le Locle under the name Universal Watch. By 1919, as Universal Genève, the company had moved to Geneva and begun developing a reputation for precision, refined finishes, and sleek, modernist designs.

In the 1930s and 1940s, Universal became particularly renowned for its chronographs, including the groundbreaking "Compax" model, one of the first wrist chronographs with subdials. However, it was in the 1950s and 1960s that the brand reached its golden age, producing ultrathin gold watches, high-precision movements, and timeless aesthetics that captivated both European and Latin American clientele.

Well-known figures such as Pope John Paul II and King Hussein of Jordan wore Universal watches, and the brand was among the first to collaborate with external designers, most notably Gérald Genta, who would later create iconic models for other legendary Swiss brands.

Today, Universal Genève continues to hold a special place in the vintage watch world. Mid-century models in solid 18K gold , particularly those in excellent condition , are highly prized by collectors for both their beauty and their mechanical reliability. Owning a Universal Genève watch from this era is a way to carry Swiss heritage and timeless style.