From a 33mm case emerges a presence defined by sharply extended, horn-like lugs. Its deep crimson aura leaves a lasting imprint— a form that lingers in the mind long after it is seen.
This design is known as the “Big Horn Lugs,” a sculptural expression that transcends function— an artwork in its own right.
Yet, the true essence of its aura lies beyond the exterior.
Within beats the rhythm of 18,000 vibrations— the Caliber 283, a movement that can be said to embody the very identity of Universal Genève.
Cal. 283
In the late 1930s, as the world moved toward war, the demand for military timepieces increased significantly.
This era saw the rise of prestigious ébauche manufacturers such as Angelus, Excelsior Park, and Lemania, alongside key industry players like Valjoux and Venus.
Amid this landscape, chronograph models emerged in rapid succession.
Within this context, Universal Genève introduced a new approach— bringing modular construction into the chronograph world, and defining distinct models with purpose-driven identities.
In 1941, the company established its movement manufacturing through Martel Watch Co. in Pont-de-Martel, Switzerland (founded in 1911).
This led to the creation of the Compax series: the two-register “Uni-Compax” with a 30-minute counter, the pilot-oriented “Aero-Compax,” the “Dato-Compax” featuring a 31-day date display, and ultimately the “Tri-Compax,” representing the pinnacle of the line.
At the core of many of these models— including Uni-Compax, Medi-Compax, and Dato-Compax— was the Caliber 283, responsible for their modular architecture.
Its heartbeat resonates at 18,000 vibrations per hour— a low-beat rhythm with both presence and character.
The movement is finished in gold— a process involving the application of finely powdered, gold-plated brass, carefully sprayed and polished to achieve a textured surface.
This technique enhances durability, ensuring resistance to corrosion and preserving its integrity across decades.
At its center lies a large balance wheel with regulating screws, a precise and commanding presence.
Supporting it, the escape wheel and pallet fork engage in constant motion, sustaining the steady cadence of 18,000 vibrations— like cutting through air with controlled force.
Not merely a mechanism, but a complete expression of mechanical artistry.
- wrist size in our picture is 17cm circumference -
Specifications
Specifications and condition
Brand
UNIVERSAL GENEVE
Ref.
1320 COMPAX BIG HORN LUG
Year
1945s
great overall condition, showing minor traces of use
DIAL
original salmon pink dial
original hands & index
STRAP & BUCKLE
3rd party Metal strap fitting up to 20cm wrist size and gold plated buckle
CASE
18K SOLID RED GOLD
33 mm (without crown) / 45mm (Lug to lug)
MOVEMENT
Cal283 CHRONOGRAPH
17 Jewels, 18000/h, Power reserve 40h
12Hours Chronograph
SCREW MONOMETAL BALANCE
BOX & PAPERS
"PRINCIPE PRIVÉ" certificate of authenticity card
"PRINCIPE PRIVÉ" box
Sold
This watch has found its next owner.
UNIVERSAL GENEVE 18k RED GOLD COMPAX BIG HORN LUG 1945s
