UNIVERSAL GENEVE 1961, WITH MICROROTOR

The story of Universal Genève and its iconic microrotor in 1961 is a fascinating chapter in Swiss watchmaking. Universal Genève, founded in 1894 in Le Locle, Switzerland, was one of the most innovative and respected brands of its time, known for its elegant designs and focus on technical precision.

The microrotor by Universal Genève

In 1955, Universal Genève introduced one of the most significant advancements in mechanical watchmaking: the microrotor caliber. This mechanism was developed by the horological engineer Gérald Genta, who would later become a legend for designing iconic watches like the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak and the Patek Philippe Nautilus.

The microrotor was an ingenious solution for automatic watches. Unlike traditional rotors that take up a significant portion of the watch case, the microrotor is smaller and integrated on the same plane as the movement, allowing for slimmer and more elegant designs. This advancement was particularly important at a time when automatic watches were gaining popularity.

Universal Genève in 1961

By 1961, Universal Genève had already solidified its reputation with the microrotor, and its watches were highly regarded for their precision and aesthetics. During this decade, the brand continued to refine its microrotor calibers, such as the Caliber 215, which was used in iconic models like the Universal Genève Polerouter.

The Polerouter, originally launched in 1954, was designed by Gérald Genta to commemorate Scandinavian Airlines System’s (SAS) new polar flight service. This watch became an instant success thanks to its innovative design and microrotor mechanism. In 1961, the Polerouter remained one of the brand’s most popular models, and its legacy endures today as a timeless classic.

Legacy of the microrotor

The microrotor by Universal Genève was not only a technical achievement but also influenced the design of automatic watches in the following decades. Brands like Patek Philippe and Audemars Piguet later adopted similar systems, demonstrating the importance of this innovation.

Today, Universal Genève watches with microrotors, especially models from the 1950s and 1960s, are highly valued by collectors. Their combination of technical innovation, elegant design, and historical connection to figures like Gérald Genta make them sought-after pieces.

In summary, 1961 was a year in which Universal Genève solidified its legacy as a pioneer in Swiss watchmaking, with the microrotor as one of its greatest achievements. Its influence remains relevant in the world of luxury watches.

TEMPPUS. All rights reserved.