Geneva witnessed more than just a typical auction this weekend. It was a resurrection, a celebration of ingenuity and a poignant reminder of the time when the skies held a different kind of pioneering spirit. A unique white-gold tribute to the Universal Genève Polerouter, a watch intrinsically linked to the dawn of commercial transpolar flight, soared to an impressive CHF 71,120 at Phillips, signalling a powerful resurgence for a sleeping giant of horology.
Echoes of the Arctic: A Watch Born of Innovation
Seventy years ago, the world shrank. Scandinavian Airlines System (SAS) dared to conquer the Arctic, launching the first commercial flights directly between Copenhagen and Los Angeles. Strapped to the wrists of these intrepid pilots was a timepiece engineered for the extremes, a watch that would become an icon: the Universal Genève Ploerouter. Commissioned by SAS and brought to life by the then-young visionary Gérald Genta, this wasn’t just a tool; it was a statement of elegant resilience, a design so clean and forward-thinking it would shape the trajectory of modern watchmaking.
The Sleeping Giant Awaken: Universal Genève’s Revival
Now, after four decades of quiet slumber, Universal Genève, once hailed as “Le Couturier de la Montre,” is poised to reclaim its place in the horological landscape in 2026. This singular tribute Polerouter and the fervent bidding it ignited, speaks volumes about the enduring allure of a brand steeped in history and defined by its atelier-born design ethos.
A Bridge Between Past and Present: The Tribute Timepiece
This isn’t merely a reissue; it’s a thoughtful reimagining. The tribute piece beats with the heart of the past – a meticulously preserved Microtor movement from the 1960s – encased in a newly sculpted 18k white gold body, complete with a handcrafted bracelet by Laurent Jolliet, one of Switzerland’s last master chain-makers. The dial whispers of its heritage, adorned with the intertwined logos of Universal Genève and SAS in the airline’s signature blue, while a guilloché rehaut adds a touch of contemporary sophistication.
More Than A Sale: Investing in Horological Heritage
But the story goes beyond a successful auction. In a move that underscores a commitment to preserving the delicate art of watchmaking, Universal Genève donated the CHF 56,000 hammer price to support Jolliet’s chainmaking class at CFP Arts Genève. This act not only honours the past but actively invests in the future of horological craftsmanship.
A Prologue to Revival: The Polerouter’s Enduring Legacy
This auction wasn’t just a sale; it was a defining moment in Universal Genève’s revival. It reaffirmed the timeless appeal of the Polerouter and the exceptional craftsmanship it embodies. And as the brand prepares for its full return, this tribute serves as a compelling prologue, hinting at a future where heritage and innovation seamlessly intertwine. The legend of the Polerouter, born from the daring spirit of polar exploration, is ready to take flight once more.
