Hi All, I would like to ask for your expert advise on a nice Universal that I am considering to buy, The advert says it is a NOS from 1965 circa, caliber 139. It is not cheap (around 1300 euro) and I would like to ensure: 1. It is worth the price requested? 2. Is it original in your opinion (it should be, just to see if everything looks ok) I am attaching few photos Thank you to everybody!!! Regards Federico
A few points: Gold-capped watches have a relatively narrow following among collectors. There are nice ones out there, but many collectors shun them in favor of full steel or gold cases. The watch appears to be very clean, and I suppose it is possible that it is actually NOS. However, those lugs look like they may have been polished, given the lack of definition in any lines on top. Perhaps they simply had a soft, smooth top when they left the factory, but the one head-on shot is a bit worrying. In terms of value, UG is primarily popular among collectors for their chronographs and Polerouter models. Their dress watches and simpler models typically carry less of a premium. If this is truly NOS, then the price is not outrageous. However, bear in mind my earlier point about collectors should you ever decide to sell.
To add to Tony's points, the dial looks redialed to me. The caseback is also weird - the reference number doesn't make sense and the UG logo looks wonky. The strap buckle is for newer UG models. I'd advise you to avoid.
Thank you both! I won’t purchase a watch at that price without being 100% sure. Thank to everybody, as usual very competent!
I think the dial is original but those lugs do look off for a NOS watch. It might also be the way the image was processed. Here's one that was offered to me recently.
Every now and then our own @LouS flashes a groovy UG on WRUW...with what look like tulips on the dial. I think he pairs that with his tie-died socks.