Universal Genève Compax reference 22499 Chronograph

Universal Genève chronographs with an oversized 38mm water-resistant case made by Spillmann are some of the most desirable pieces ever made by the company, particularly those rare few made with three-register movements as the majority of those you see have two-register movements. This particular example has a case serial number that dates it to circa 1945 production and it has wonderful provenance. It was originally owned by David S. Newcombe, M.D. and came to Eric Wind directly from a relative of his who inherited it. Dr. Newcombe served as a Captain in the U.S. Army in Korea and he likely wore this watch during his service there. He later became an expert in gout and he passed away in 2010. Dr. Newcombe wrote a book entitled Gout: Basic Science and Clinical Practice, a copy of which will be included with the purchase of this watch.

According to the relative, It is possible that Newcombe received this watch as a high school graduation gift and it features “D.S.N” engraved on the case back. You can read more about him in his obituary here:
http://archive.boston.com/bostonglobe/obituaries/articles/2010/07/10/dr_david_newcombe_80_renowned_rheumatologist/

https://www.legacy.com/obituaries/wickedlocal-wayland/obituary.aspx?n=david-s-newcombe&pid=143587656

The luminous material on the dial is original and we believe the pushers and crown are original. The luminous material in the minute hand was patched at some point presumably decades ago.

This watch is from circa 1945, does not include the original box and papers, has a manual wind movement (Caliber 285 made by Universal Genève), and is 38mm in diameter.

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