Universal. A Fine Stainless Steel Chronograph Wristwatch with Date and Moonphases
Universal. A Fine Stainless Steel Chronograph Wristwatch with Date and Moonphases

Signed Universal Genève, Tri-Compax, Eric Clapton Model, Case No. 881.101/01, Serial No.. 2'437'850, Manufactured in 1965

Details
Universal. A Fine Stainless Steel Chronograph Wristwatch with Date and Moonphases
Signed Universal Genève, Tri-Compax, Eric Clapton Model, Case No. 881.101/01, Serial No.. 2'437'850, Manufactured in 1965
Movement: Manual, Cal. 281, 17 jewels
Dial: White, baton numerals with luminous accents, two apertures for day and month in English, four black subsidiary dials
Case: Stainless steel, screw back, two round buttons in the band, 36mm diam.
Strap/Buckle: Universal leather strap, Universal stainless steel buckle
Accompanied by: A Universal Extract from the Archives, a Universal presentation box and two tie-tags

Lot Essay

The present Tri-Compax is preserved in excellent overall condition. It is from the “Panda” version of the model, also known as the “Eric Clapton Tri-Compax”, as it was famously worn by the celebrated musician during his time playing with the band Cream.

The Tri-Compax chronograph was launched in 1944 and stayed in production until the 1960s, available in stainless steel and gold and with a variety of dial colors and designs. The designation “Tri” is derived from the three complications, 1. chronograph including minute and hour register; 2. Full calendar showing day, date, month; and 3. the moon phase.

The Universal caliber 281 replaced the slightly smaller cal. 481 in the late 1950s. This allowed for the introduction of new chronograph pusher styles and the use of screw down case backs.

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