• Universal Genève Polerouter black glossy bumper, ref. 20217-4, 1955, black dial, steel case
  • Universal Genève Polerouter black glossy bumper, ref. 20217-4, 1955, photo 2 of 10
  • Universal Genève Polerouter black glossy bumper, ref. 20217-4, 1955, photo 3 of 10
  • Universal Genève Polerouter black glossy bumper, ref. 20217-4, 1955, photo 4 of 10
  • Universal Genève Polerouter black glossy bumper, ref. 20217-4, 1955, photo 5 of 10
  • Universal Genève Polerouter black glossy bumper, ref. 20217-4, 1955, photo 6 of 10
  • Universal Genève Polerouter black glossy bumper, ref. 20217-4, 1955, photo 7 of 10
  • Universal Genève Polerouter black glossy bumper, ref. 20217-4, 1955, photo 8 of 10
  • Universal Genève Polerouter black glossy bumper, ref. 20217-4, 1955, photo 9 of 10
  • Universal Genève Polerouter black glossy bumper, ref. 20217-4, 1955, photo 10 of 10
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Universal Geneve

Universal Genève Polerouter black glossy bumper

Universal Genève Polerouter black glossy bumper

NOT AVAILABLE

Brand: Universal Genève
Typology: Vintage dresswatch
Year: 1955

The Universal Genève Polerouter represents one of the most important chapters in 20th-century watchmaking history. Introduced in 1954, the Polerouter was created as a tribute to the new generation of international air travel, originally designed for Scandinavian Airlines System (SAS) pilots operating polar routes between Europe and North America.

This example, reference 20217-4, belongs to the earliest production period and features the legendary bumper automatic movement UG 138SS, a fascinating chapter before Universal Genève’s transition toward the revolutionary micro-rotor technology.

The first Polerouter models were powered by traditional automatic “bumper” movements, where a semi-circular oscillating weight moved between two buffers to wind the mainspring. Shortly after, Universal Genève developed one of the most innovative solutions in automatic watchmaking: the micro-rotor movement, introduced in 1958 with the celebrated Calibre 215. Unlike conventional automatic systems, the micro-rotor was fully integrated into the movement architecture, allowing for a thinner profile and a cleaner design.

The Polerouter therefore represents a unique evolutionary bridge: from the robust and charming bumper technology of the 1950s to one of the most advanced automatic movements of the modern era.

This specimen features a highly attractive black gilt dial with crosshair design, preserving the original vintage character and elegant proportions of the early Polerouter. The watch is completed with a refined midnight blue Tejus lizard leather strap, perfectly matching the sophisticated aesthetic of this historic timepiece.

A true collector’s watch, combining Universal Genève’s technical innovation, Scandinavian design heritage and the golden age of mechanical watchmaking.

 

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Specifics

  • General info

    • Reference: 20217-4
    • Serial number: 1.173.xxx
    • Case material: Steel
    • Glass: Plexiglass
    • Caseback: Screw-back
    • Case diameter: 35.0 mm
    • Bezel Materials: Steel
    • Dial color: Black
    • Dial numerals: No numerals
    • General conditions: Great conditions
    • Water resistance rate: Not waterproof
    • Delivery contents: Watch only

  • Band or Strap

    • Band material: Lizard
    • Lug width: 20 mm
    • Buckle type: Classic
    • Buckle material: Steel

  • Movement

    • Calibre: UG 138SS bumper
    • Movement type: Automatic
    • Complications: None

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