Universal Genève Polerouter Sub 869120/02

Universal Geneve Polerouter Sub 869120/02 MK2

Designed by Genta in 1954 when he was just 23, the Universal Geneve Polerouter is the watch that kick-started the designer's illustrious career. Launched to commemorate the beginning of Scandinavian Airlines Systems (SAS) flights from Europe to Los Angeles and New York, the Polerouter has aviation at its core, as referenced by its name. The routes flown by SAS from Copenhagen to LA flew over the North Pole, which shortened flight times between the two points from 36 to 22 hours, thus creating the name Polerouter. In addition to being named after its route, the Polerouter's construction was also influenced by this route, as the North Pole's magnetic force would wreak havoc on most watches and instruments in the plane. As such, Universal Geneve needed to make the Polerouter resistant to magnetism. One of the most iconic pilot's watches around, the Polerouter has grown a cult-like status amongst watch collectors as they fawn over its understated design and rich heritage linked to the dawn of transcontinental aviation. However, while it is famed as a pilot’s watch, the Polerouter also welcomed other use cases into its repertoire, with a diving variant also being created, which is what we have here, the Polerouter Sub ref. 869120/02. Launched in 1961, the Polerouter Sub ref. 20369-1 features a 40mm stainless steel case with a black dial that features large luminous indices, thick luminous hands, and a pleasing red and white color scheme for its script. Boasting a thin black aluminum bezel insert for timing dives, this timepiece is a wonderfully functional take on Universal Geneve’s best-known watch. Brand : Universal Geneve Dimensions : 40mm Model : Polerouter Sub Movement : Automatic cal. 1-69 "Micro Rotor Reference : 869120/02 Bracelet : Generic steel bracelet Year : Circa 1960s Condition : Excellent Material : Stainless steel Included : Watch only Dial Color : Black THE DIAL Boasting a black dial with red and white inscriptions and large luminous U-surrounded indices and hands and a rotatable black aluminum bezel, the Polerouter Sub's display is built for function. THE CONSTRUCTION A hulking watch, back in the day, the Polerouter Sub's construction was built for utility with its thick lugs, knurled bezel ring, and large screw-down crown all revealing the watch's robust user-friendly design focus. TIMING MACHINE READOUT This reading was taken (crown down) with a ONEOF Accuracy Boutique Edition timing machine at time of cataloging. It is provided as a courtesy only, and shall not be construed as a warranty or guarantee of any kind. Please refer to our terms and conditions of sale for more information.