95 Universal Genève A historically important and oversize, military split-second manual chronograph wristwatch in steel, 16-minute register, made for the Italian Air Force, reference 22560.
Estimate: Fr. 40'000 – 80'000
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- Model Rattrappante A. Cairelli
- Year Circa 1950s
- Reference 22560
- Case Material Stainless steel
- Case Number MM. 200'016
- Bracelet Material Leather strap
- Movement Manual, jewelled
- Movement Number 2'655
- Dimension 44.5mm Diameter
- Signed Case, dial and movement
Among the most purpose-driven instruments ever adapted to the wrist, military split-seconds chronographs occupy a category of their own, built not for prestige, but for survival. This remarkable Universal Genève example stands as a direct witness to that era, conceived for aerial navigation when precision was not optional, but vital. Commissioned for the Italian Ministry of Defence and delivered through the historic Roman retailer A. Cairelli, this timepiece was engineered for use in demanding flight conditions. Its large 44.5mm case immediately signals its utilitarian intent, offering exceptional legibility. The dial layout is both striking and highly functional: a rare 24-hour scale dominates the display, allowing pilots to distinguish day from night at a glance, while the oversized registers, including the distinctive 16-minute counter, were tailored for specific navigational calculations. Every detail reflects its military vocation. The bold Arabic numerals, deep blued hands, and clean sectorized layout ensure clarity under any circumstance. The presence of the Cairelli signature at six o’clock anchors the watch within a very specific historical and geographical context. Inside, the robust based Valjoux 55 rattrapante movement delivers the split-seconds function, a sophisticated complication allowing simultaneous timing of multiple events. This same architecture underpinned some of the most legendary chronographs ever produced, like the Rolex 4113, reinforcing the technical pedigree of the piece. Equally compelling is the engraved caseback, bearing official military specifications, an authentic mark of its operational life. Preserved in excellent condition, this watch secures a tangible connection to a time when precision instruments guided men through the unknown skies.
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LUGANO
Villa Principe Leopoldo, Via Montalbano 5
3 June - From 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM
GENEVA
Beau-Rivage, Quai du Mont-Blanc 13
9 May - From 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM
10 May - From 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM