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Spotted in Paris: Universal Genève Space Compax Ref 885104 and Tri Compax Ref 222100 and 885101.

amanico
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During my Saturday watch shopping in Paris, I could see a bunch of eye catching vintage Universal Genève. 

The Space Compax, first, dating from the second half of the Sixties, reference 885104/01

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It is claimed that this Space Compax was conceived to challenge the Speedmaster as a moon watch, which would explain the name of this watch, while it seems that it is, naturally, a diver chronograph, with its 250 meters water resistant case, its prominent crown and pushers, and its bezel. 

It is a rather big watch ( 40 mm ) and thick, too ( 15 mm ). Proportions you can guess from the bold case. 

The movement inside is the Cal UG 85, which is a Valjoux 72. 

A watch with a lot of personality, to say the least. 

But this is not my favorite, among the three I could see this Saturday. 

I was more attracted by these two Trips Compax, and especially the first one.

The Tri Compax Reference 222100 is from the very early Sixties. 

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This version blends character and elegance, with its beautiful and strong case... Have a look at these lugs! 

And its brushed dial with the circular decoration of its sub dials. A dial which is an example of balance and symmetry, too. 

The second version is the reference 885101, basically the same than the 222100, but with a black dial and a tachymeter bezel, and long rectangular painted indices rather  than applied. 

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Compared to its silver brusher " brother ", the Trip Compax 885101 looks more sporty. 

To each his own, but I would favor the 222100 for its elegance. 

Both have the same 36 mm case. Don't worry, in the real, it looks bigger ( 37 / 38 mm ).

I must confess a huge fondness for these complete calendar chronographs. I always found them very class(ic). 

I would like to thank Antoine De Macedo for showing me his special " reserve ". It is always a pleasure, and a nightmare, as these watches feed my dreams.

Best,

Nicolas

Comments:
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Bill December 3rd, 2018-10:25
I love the lugs of the Space Compax but the dial on the Tri p Compax is so delicious. ... 
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amanico December 3rd, 2018-14:04
You have sure taste, my friend.  
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Cpt Scarlet December 3rd, 2018-10:38
Window shopping in Paris on Saturday..  ... 
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amanico December 3rd, 2018-14:05
Aaah, yes. Also... But not that shop, luckily. ;)  No message body
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Cpt Scarlet December 3rd, 2018-14:18
Thank goodness for that !  
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amanico December 3rd, 2018-22:56
Yes, that's my favorite Devil's Playground.  
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Cpt Scarlet December 4th, 2018-01:13
Good news... Fuel tax rise cancelled in France.
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amanico December 4th, 2018-06:52
It seems so. Not cancelled, but delayed. More money to buy watches. ;p  
minutehand June 16th, 2019-15:17
The 885 series have the exact Omega Speedmaster Bezels including the Dot over 90!  
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amanico June 16th, 2019-22:00
He he he, you noticed!  
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