For sale is a masterclass in minimalist design, a Vintage Universal Genève "Stepped Tank" in Stainless Steel. Based on the serial number (3.5M range), this timepiece dates to approximately 1978–1980. It captures the essence of the late-70s "less is more" philosophy while retaining the high-horology pedigree that Universal Genève is famous for. It is a dress watch of the highest order, offering a sophisticated, mechanical alternative to the quartz watches that dominated this era.
This manual-wind example features a distinctive 28mm x 28mm square case defined by its architectural "stepped" bezel. This multi-level design adds incredible visual depth and catches the light in a way that flat bezels simply cannot, giving the watch a jewelry-like presence on the wrist. The dial is the star of the show, a deep, glossy "Piano Black" (or lacquer-style) finish that is completely void of hour markers. This deliberate design choice relies on pure contrast, allowing the white printed "Universal Genève" text and the "U" logo to float effortlessly above the inky black surface. This watch comes with its original Universal Geneve buckle. The watch is powered by a high-grade, ultra-thin manual wind movement (likely the legendary Caliber 1-42), allowing it to slip easily under a tuxedo cuff.
Key Features:
Brand: Universal Genève
Reference: 842676
Era: Circa 1978–1980
Case Size: 28mm x 28mm (Wears larger due to square shape)
Case Style: Stainless Steel with architectural "Stepped" Bezel
Dial: Minimalist "Piano Black" / Gloss Black with no indices
Hands: Silver Stick Hands
Movement: Manual Wind Mechanical (Likely Cal. 1-42)
Why Collectors Love It: Universal Genève is currently experiencing a massive surge in collector interest following its recent acquisition by Breitling, making vintage pieces like this highly investible. However, beyond the market trends, this watch is loved for its design purity. The combination of the "stepped" case and the void black dial creates a "black tie" aesthetic that feels incredibly modern despite being over 45 years old. It represents a sweet spot in vintage collecting: a recognized heritage brand, a rare mechanical movement from the quartz era, and a design that rivals the great design houses (Cartier/Piaget) at a much more accessible price point.
Return Policy All watch purchases from Arrows Vintage Watches include a 48-hour return window. If you’re not fully satisfied, you may return the watch at your expense using the same insured shipping method it was sent with, and in the same condition it was received. Once the watch is returned and inspected, refunds will be issued within 7 days via the original payment method.
All returns and cancellations will be charged a restocking fee around 3% of the total item price. This is the cost of using a payment processor on the site.
For sale is a masterclass in minimalist design, a Vintage Universal Genève "Stepped Tank" in Stainless Steel. Based on the serial number (3.5M range), this timepiece dates to approximately 1978–1980. It captures the essence of the late-70s "less is more" philosophy while retaining the high-horology pedigree that Universal Genève is famous for. It is a dress watch of the highest order, offering a sophisticated, mechanical alternative to the quartz watches that dominated this era.
This manual-wind example features a distinctive 28mm x 28mm square case defined by its architectural "stepped" bezel. This multi-level design adds incredible visual depth and catches the light in a way that flat bezels simply cannot, giving the watch a jewelry-like presence on the wrist. The dial is the star of the show, a deep, glossy "Piano Black" (or lacquer-style) finish that is completely void of hour markers. This deliberate design choice relies on pure contrast, allowing the white printed "Universal Genève" text and the "U" logo to float effortlessly above the inky black surface. This watch comes with its original Universal Geneve buckle. The watch is powered by a high-grade, ultra-thin manual wind movement (likely the legendary Caliber 1-42), allowing it to slip easily under a tuxedo cuff.
Key Features:
Brand: Universal Genève
Reference: 842676
Era: Circa 1978–1980
Case Size: 28mm x 28mm (Wears larger due to square shape)
Case Style: Stainless Steel with architectural "Stepped" Bezel
Dial: Minimalist "Piano Black" / Gloss Black with no indices
Hands: Silver Stick Hands
Movement: Manual Wind Mechanical (Likely Cal. 1-42)
Why Collectors Love It: Universal Genève is currently experiencing a massive surge in collector interest following its recent acquisition by Breitling, making vintage pieces like this highly investible. However, beyond the market trends, this watch is loved for its design purity. The combination of the "stepped" case and the void black dial creates a "black tie" aesthetic that feels incredibly modern despite being over 45 years old. It represents a sweet spot in vintage collecting: a recognized heritage brand, a rare mechanical movement from the quartz era, and a design that rivals the great design houses (Cartier/Piaget) at a much more accessible price point.
Return Policy All watch purchases from Arrows Vintage Watches include a 48-hour return window. If you’re not fully satisfied, you may return the watch at your expense using the same insured shipping method it was sent with, and in the same condition it was received. Once the watch is returned and inspected, refunds will be issued within 7 days via the original payment method.
All returns and cancellations will be charged a restocking fee around 3% of the total item price. This is the cost of using a payment processor on the site.
