Superb 1965 Universal Genève Polerouter Date Micro-Rotor Ref. 869113/04

This superb example of a Universal Genève Polerouter Date, reference 869113/04, was manufactured in 1965 (serial number 2417xxx).
Presented in excellent overall condition, its 35 mm case retains its original proportions and finishes, its dial is a wonderfully vintage taupe-grey and features luminescent material (tritium base) on the indices and hands, perfectly patinated with a remarkably warm and seductive orange.
The automatic micro-rotor movement, Universal Genève caliber 69, has been celebrated by collectors for decades, and, along with the distinctive elements of the steel case with stylized lugs, the crown and the dial, contributes to the inimitable charm of the Polerouter, designed by the illustrious Gérald Genta for the Scandinavian Airline Systems (SAS) airline.
A highly sought-after variant!

The Universal Genève Polerouter is an iconic timepiece, designed in 1954 by the renowned designer Gérald Genta at the request of Scandinavian Airlines System (SAS), which wanted to create a watch to celebrate the introduction of its transatlantic flights over the North Pole. Its design proved a major success and led to a series of variations, including the Polerouter Jet, the Polerouter De Luxe, the Polerouter Sub, and the immensely popular Polerouter Date – a superb example of which we are presenting today. Combining elegant, timeless style with significant horological innovations, it is particularly prized by collectors.

Its 35mm stainless steel case (produced by Huguenin Frères) and its dial with a guilloché internal bezel and a typically vintage taupe-grey center give it a look that is both dressy and sporty. The Dauphine hands and the date window at three o'clock, magnified by a trapezoidal lens inside the plexiglass crystal, are also hallmarks of the Polerouter Date's design, as is the original winding crown, known as the UG "Big Crown".

Inside, the Polerouters were primarily notable for Universal Genève's introduction of self-winding mechanical movements equipped with a micro-rotor. In the case of the watch we are presenting today, this is the renowned caliber 69. SAS's specifications also included the need for anti-magnetic protection of the movement to withstand the extreme magnetic fields of the North Pole.

For collectors, the Universal Genève Polerouter Date represents a true treasure. The first versions of this watch, produced in the 1950s and 1960s, are particularly sought after today – and will certainly be even more so tomorrow, with the news of the acquisition of the Universal Genève brand by the group that already owns Breitling, and the relaunch of several of the brand's icons, including, of course, the Polerouter.

This Universal Genève Polerouter Date reference 869113/04 is preserved in superb overall condition.
The dark grey/taupe dial is flawless, all the luminescent material dots (tritium base) are present, intact, and have developed a warm, homogeneous "pumpkin" patina.
The case is angular, only very lightly polished since the watch's inception 60 years ago, and gives this Polerouter an unparalleled vintage charm.
The case back still features the Polerouter medallion as well as the reference and serial numbers of the watch, perfectly legible – a rare occurrence on these models, and a testament to the fact that this case has not been damaged by polishing throughout its existence.
The original winding crown, known as the "Big Crown", bears the "U" medallion and is in excellent condition.
The movement, which was recently fully serviced by a watchmaker experienced with Universal Genève calibers, is running perfectly.
The plexiglass crystal with trapezoidal date magnifier has been replaced anew.
The leather strap is new, and the steel pin buckle, signed Universal Genève, is in perfect condition.
A Polerouter Date of exemplary quality!

All the watches available on our website have been meticulously inspected by our team of experts to guarantee their authenticity and originality.

All our watches are systematically checked for mechanical function and precision, and undergo a complete overhaul if necessary.

Every watch sold is covered by a two-year warranty.

Find out more about The Amplitude Guarantee.

We ship all watches ordered on our website free of charge worldwide.

Any customs or import duties/taxes are the responsibility of the buyer.

Amplitude uses several specialized and secure carriers, depending on the destination of each parcel and its contents (Malca Amit, Ferrari, FedEx, etc.).

We are used to shipping watches all over the world, including to Europe, the United States and Asia. Find out more about Shipping & Deliveries at Amplitude.