Universal Genève Compur Chronograph – Black Snail Dial, Multi-Scale, Mid-1930s

A highly collectible Universal Genève Compur chronograph from the mid-1930s, featuring a rare black “snail” multi-scale dial with tachymeter and telemeter indications, two-register layout, and classic rectangular chronograph pushers.

A highly attractive and historically important Universal Genève Compur Chronograph, dating to the mid-1930s and distinguished by its rare black multi-scale “snail” dial. Universal Genève holds a special place in vintage chronograph collecting, and the early Compur models are especially admired for combining technical innovation with some of the most visually compelling dial designs of the era.

The defining feature of the watch is its beautifully complex black multi-scale dial, combining a central spiral tachymeter scale — often referred to by collectors as a snail or colimaçon track — with an outer Télemètre scale and additional calibrated tracks that give the watch exceptional depth and strong period character. The two-register layout, paired with its elegant hands and richly layered dial architecture, creates a striking and unmistakably vintage chronograph aesthetic.

The Compur line, introduced in 1934, marked an important chapter in the development of wrist chronographs, and these early examples remain especially sought after by collectors today. Housed in a classic round case with rectangular chronograph pushers, a pronounced winding crown, and fitted here on a vintage-style multi-link stainless steel bracelet, this watch offers the charm, mechanical appeal, and visual sophistication that define the best early Universal Genève chronographs.

Specifications

• Brand: Universal Genève
• Model: Compur Chronograph
• Period: Mid-1930s
• Case material: Stainless steel
• Dial: Black multi-scale “snail” dial
• Scales: Tachymeter, telemeter, central spiral scale
• Layout: Two-register chronograph
• Hands: Syringe-style hands
• Pushers: Rectangular chronograph pushers
• Crown: Large fluted crown
• Bracelet: Vintage-style multi-link stainless steel bracelet
• Movement: Manual-winding chronograph movement
• Calibre: Typically associated with Universal Genève Cal. 285

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