1966-1967 Universal Genève Polerouter Date Micro-Rotor Ref. 869115/06

This superb Universal Genève Polerouter Date, reference 869115/06, was manufactured in 1966-1967 (serial number 2477xxx).
Presented in excellent overall condition, its 35mm case retains its original proportions and finishes, and its dial is a typically vintage anthracite grey with luminescent material dots (tritium base) at the hour markers and on the hands, perfectly patinated to a warm and attractive beige.
The automatic micro-rotor movement, Universal Genève calibre 1-69, has been celebrated by collectors for decades. Along with the distinctive elements of the steel case with stylized lugs, the crown, and the dial, it contributes to the inimitable charm of the Polerouter, designed by the illustrious Gérald Genta for Scandinavian Airline Systems (SAS).
A highly sought-after piece!

The Universal Genève Polerouter is an iconic watch, designed in 1954 by the illustrious 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 to be a major success and gave rise to a series of variants, 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 and timeless style with significant horological innovations, it is particularly prized by collectors.

Its 35mm stainless steel case (produced by Huguenin Frères) and anthracite-grey dial give it both a dressy and sporty look. The baton hands and the date aperture at three o'clock, magnified by a trapezoidal cyclops lens inside the plexiglass crystal, are also hallmarks of the Polerouter Date's design, as is the original winding crown.

Inside, Universal Genève Polerouter watches notably saw the introduction by Universal Genève of self-winding mechanical movements equipped with a micro-rotor. In the case of the watch we are presenting today, it is the renowned caliber 1-69. The SAS airline's specifications also included the need for anti-magnetic protection for the movement, to overcome the extreme magnetic fields of the North Pole.

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

This Universal Genève Polerouter Date reference 869115/06 is preserved in superb overall condition.
The dark grey dial shows no flaws, all luminescent material dots (tritium base) are present, intact, and have developed a warm, uniform "pumpkin" patina.
The case is angular, polished only once since the watch's birth 60 years ago, and gives this Polerouter an unmistakable vintage charm.
The case back still features the Polerouter medallion as well as the watch's reference and serial numbers, which are extremely clear and perfectly legible – a rare occurrence on these models, and testament to the fact that this case has not been damaged by repeated polishing throughout its existence.
The original winding crown bears the "U" medallion and is in excellent condition.
The movement, which recently underwent a complete overhaul by a watchmaker accustomed to Universal Genève calibers, is working perfectly.
The plexiglass crystal with the characteristic trapezoidal date magnifier has been replaced with a new one.
The beige/camel calfskin Amplitude° strap is new, as is the steel pin buckle.
A Polerouter Date of exemplary quality!

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