Universal Genève Reference 112305-6 w/ Enamel Portrait of Yemeni King Ahmad bin Yahya

The allure to personalized dials come in many different variations. Some bear a business or private organization, while others feature the initials of a distinguished collector. In the present example, we see one of the most elaborate genres of personalization in the form of a portrait dial. Typically, these customizations were exclusive to figures of royalty or diplomatic nobility in the Middle East. However, this Universal Genève originates just south of “The Kingdom” in the country of Yemen.

While there are various examples of Middle Eastern rulers depicted on the dials of Universal Genève and Patek Philippe, this is one of only two presently known to feature the penultimate king of the Mutawakkilite Kingdom of Yemen. This dial features what appears to be an enamel portrait of Ahmad bin Yahya Hamidaddin. Ahmad bin Yahya reigned as Iman and King of Yemen for a period of 14 years from 1948 until his death at the age of 71 in 1962.

Complementing the portrait and rose gold dauphine hands are painted orange Eastern Arabic numerals, open crosshair subdial, and 60 second demarcations giving off a warm dial tone. As indicated by the numerical imprints on the snap on case back, this UG is a reference 112305-6. The upper seven-digit code (1926499) indicates the case number.

The 18K pink gold case is unpolished and likely was worn on a few occasions, if ever. The case was made by Jung & Cie. Those who love to admire great cases will certainly adore the crisp downturned lugs, horizontally brushed profile and completely preserved Helvetia hallmark. Both the bezel and lugs’ surfaces are mirror polished. The case diameter is 34mm (37mm lug-to-lug) and has a lug width slightly above 18mm. The watch is quite elegant with a height of only 8mm. 

The signed crown gives off a great deal of tension while being wound, again highlighting the rare interactions it has had with over the years. The watch is powered by the calibre 1200, a manual wound movement that can be found in various models from the manufacturer.

The watch is in “as new” condition, presumably on the original strap with the original UG buckle. The gold plated buckle is made by Wenger, a highly decorated casemaker based out of Geneva that was founded by the brothers Eduoard and Andre Wenger. The buckle is beautifully aged showing signs of oxidation. Comparable to what one could expect to pay for an example from Patek Philippe, this Universal Genève is a much more inviting price point.

I’m extremely pleased to offer this classic time-only Universal Genève with a subtle touch of flair.

SOLD