1967 Universal Geneve 'Tank' Manual 28x35mm 842114

Here we have a 1967 Universal Genève ‘Tank’ Manual 28mm 842114, a masterclass in mid-century minimalism from a manufacturer often dubbed the "watchmaker’s watchmaker." While the rectangular "Tank" silhouette is a horological icon, Universal Genève’s execution in the late 1960s brought a distinct, razor-thin elegance that feels remarkably contemporary even today. Featuring a 28mm polished stainless steel rectangular case, this reference is defined by its ultra-slim profile, measuring a mere 6.5mm in thickness. The vertically brushed case sides transition into slender lugs with a lug-to-lug length of 35mm, allowing the watch to disappear under a shirt cuff while maintaining a sophisticated presence. On the right side, a low-profile crown keeps the geometric lines uninterrupted. A flat crystal sits flush above a sunburst silver dial, epitomising formal dress watch design. The dial features elongated, printed baton hour markers that radiate toward the centre, complemented by delicate black needle hands. At noon, the applied Universal Genève "U" logo serves as the only flourish on this incredibly balanced and minimalist timepiece. On the reverse, a snap-on case back protects the refined In-house Universal Calibre 1-42. This manually wound movement is a noted piece of engineering, designed specifically for the brand's ultra-thin dress watches. 17 jewels, beating at 21,600 vibrations per hour, it foregoes a second hand to maintain the dial's clean aesthetic, focusing purely on reliable, slimline timekeeping. The watch comes paired with a well-suited 19mm leather strap and pin buckle, which emphasises the tapering lines of the 842114 case.

This watch is sold as ‘Watch Only’ and therefore comes with no original Universal box or original Universal Geneve paperwork. The watch comes paired with a well-suited 19mm leather strap and pin buckle. The watch dates from Circa. 1967 and is sold in worn vintage condition; signs of age are visible on the watch, as you can see. The watch comes with our 12-Months NON-Waterproof Warranty.

With Universal Genève on a serious hype among collectors, it is getting harder to find the hidden gems, but they can still be found, and this wonderful Universal Genève 'Tank' is the perfect example of that. This reference 842114 comes in a super wearable 28mm by 35mm stainless steel case and is powered by the manually wound Universal Genève calibre 1-42. If you want to add a great UG to your collection, don't think you have to spend thousands; a great example like this one is well worth considering. Snap it up and add it to your collection today!

Reference : 842114
Movement : Manually Wound Universal Cal. 1-42
Age : Circa. 1967
Year : 1967
Case Size : 28mm
Case Thickness : 6.5mm
Lug to Lug : 35mm
Lugs : 19mm
Condition : Pre-Owned
Box and Papers : None
Case Material : Stainless Steel
Warranty : 12-Months NON-Waterproof Warranty
The wrist model's wrist size is 7inch

Universal Genève was founded in 1894 in Le Locle, Switzerland, as Universal Watch by two Horology students, Ulysse-Georges Perret and Numa-Emile Descombes. By 1919, they had moved their operations to Geneva and renamed the brand Universal Genève. They have been owned by Stelux, a Hong Kong investment group, since 1989. In December of 2023, it was announced that The Partners Group, a private equity firm that owns a majority stake in Breitling, is planning to acquire the Swiss luxury watch brand Universal Genève from Stelux Holdings. This Hong Kong-based holding company has been the brand's custodian since 1989. Over the years, Universal Genève has struggled to gain investment and marketing direction under Stelux Holdings, leading the brand to fall behind its competitors in the luxury watch market. However, the acquisition by The Partners Group is expected to change that. The move is largely driven by Georges Kern, the CEO of Breitling, who has expressed his desire to bring back the historical brand and help it regain its former glory. Kern has successfully turned around the fortunes of Breitling since he took over in 2017, and he is expected to apply the same strategy to Universal Genève. The acquisition comes at a time when there is increased interest in vintage watches, particularly those made by Universal Genève. The brand's vintage timepieces have been fetching record prices at auctions, indicating a renewed interest in the brand. With the cash infusion from The Partners Group, Universal Genève is expected to launch new models and expand its product line to cater to the growing demand for luxury vintage watches. The market is receptive to new offerings from the brand, and the acquisition is seen as a positive step towards reviving Universal Genève's reputation as a leading luxury watch brand.