Universal Genève Compax 18k Rose Gold Tricompax Chronograph Moonphase Calendar 12266 38 mm

Universal Genève 3-Compax Moonphase Chronograph – 18K Rose Gold – Ref. 12296 – Caliber 481 – Jumbo Size

A truly exceptional and rare example of Universal Genève’s golden era of chronograph making, this 18-carat rose gold 3-Compax Moonphase (Ref. 12296, case no. 1455488) embodies the elegance, mechanical mastery, and timeless charm that made the manufacture one of the greats of Swiss watchmaking.

Housed in an oversized “jumbo” case 39.5mm with crown this piece is unusually large for its period, making it highly desirable among collectors and connoisseurs. The case, dial, and movement are all signed Universal Genève, with the legendary caliber 481 beating at its heart — one of the finest vintage triple-calendar chronograph movements ever produced.

The silvered dial features two beautifully calendar windows displaying day and month, and a charming moonphase aperture with its original red indicator hand. The three sub-dials (chronograph minutes, hours, and running seconds) are clean and well-balanced, highlighted by elegant alpha hands and even tritium patina, creating a warm vintage character that only time can impart. The tachymeter scale runs from 1000 to 600 (base 600), further underlining its technical spirit.

The rose gold case is meticulously finished with a polished bezel, satin-brushed sides, and a polished caseback, complemented by square chronograph pushers and three corrector buttons on the left flank. The proportions and finishing demonstrate Universal Genève’s attention to detail and finesse in the 1940s–1950s period.

This example remains in good overall condition, with a naturally aged dial showing light marks consistent with age but fully retaining its authenticity and charm. The moonphase disc is original and beautifully preserved, with vibrant blue and gold tones.

The watch was recently serviced by our specialist watchmaker experienced in vintage complications and is offered with a one-year 24Time warranty. Timekeeping and chronograph functions perform well; the only minor note is that the day indicator may occasionally not jump precisely at midnight or later, a known trait of early calendar mechanisms.

It is fitted with a new blue leather strap and a gold-plated buckle (not Universal Genève) that harmonizes elegantly with the rose gold case.

Most notably, it comes with its original rare vintage Universal Genève presentation box — a collector’s treasure in itself, seldom preserved with watches of this age.

Highlights

Universal Genève 3-Compax Moonphase Chronograph

Reference 12296 – Caliber 481

18K rose gold jumbo case (39.5 mm with crown)

Triple calendar with moonphase, tachymeter base 600

Alpha hands – even tritium patina

Signed dial, movement, and case

Polished bezel / satin sides / square pushers / three correctors

Serviced – one-year 24Time guarantee

Comes with its original rare vintage Universal Genève box

Rare in rose gold – collector’s piece with strong value potential

A fine and rare Universal Genève from a golden era of Swiss chronographs — complete with its original vintage box, a true piece of horological history, both wearable and collectible.

✅ Authenticity Guaranteed — Certified by Swiss experts

✅ Trusted Provenance — Verified serial numbers

✅ Secure and encrypted payments with our leading Swiss partner Worldline