Focus On : Universal Geneve Polerouter Jet
Focus On : Universal Geneve Polerouter Jet
Watchmaking isn’t only about watches. It’s also about the individuals who persevere to make their projects and dreams become reality. The history of Universal Genève is such a story, rich with men and events that have molded the evolution of their timepieces.
Universal Geneve Polerouter: A bit of History
From their beginnings in 1894 in Le Locle, innovation has been a top concern of the Swiss watchmaker. Among the first to recognise the enormous potential of wrist-watches and chronographs, Universal was already making chronographs with a 30-minute totalizer by the end of the 20th century. Exponential growth of the little manufacturer lead to a relocation to Geneva in 1919. A few years later in 1925, Universal releases its first automatic calibers.
Created by design legend Gerald Genta in 1954, the story behind Universal’s Polarouter, big brother of Polerouter, started when commercial SAS (Scandinavian Airline System) pilots began flying over the Arctic Circle to reduce time on intercontinental flights. Flight companion of SAS crews during their polar flights, the watch was later renamed Polerouter. From 1955 and on it would be fitted with a brand new microrotor calibre 215, the rotating mass incorporated directly into the movement, making it an exceptionally thin watch.
In no time the watches gained notoriety thanks to their antimagnetic properties and timekeeping excellence on said flights.
“ The history of Universal Genève is… rich with men and events that have molded
the evolution of their timepieces.”
Universal Geneve Polerouter Jet with Straight Lugs
With its clear ties to the aviation world, it’s no surprise that among Polerouter models we have one named “Jet”. The rise of jet-powered commercial airlines over the old propeller machines, and more frequent air travel in the late 50’s probably had something to do with it’s name as well.
While “classic” Polerouters were produced with “lyre” lugs, the Jet is equipped with special straight lugs, adding a touch of modernity to the design. Moreover when worn on the wrist, the strong unbending presence of these long lugs greatly reinforce the presence of the relatively small 35mm watch.
Another classic feature on the Polerouter is an inner index ring. On the particular model we see here, this track circles a delicate cream-colored vinyl-patterned guilloche dial. Dagger hour hands and a simple golden needle sweep seconds hand complete this fine picture.
