Hi, I’m curious to know if any of our resident UG experts have ever come across a Universal Geneve compax of any kind from the mid/late 1940s with the case maker’s stamp and other marks on the rear OUTSIDE of the case, along with the serial and reference numbers that one would usually expect to see there...? This one pictured, from a yellow gold Tri-Compax, appears to show a hammer with 128 (Jung & Cie?), an owl (French gold?) and maybe a woman's side profile (??), along with 18k / 0.750. Perhaps this is an example of French cased watch, but I’ve never seen this outside placement before (I don't have Sala handy at the moment to check) and that has me wondering if something might be amiss. For what it’s worth, the inside of the case back simply has the Universal logo at the top, and “SWISS” at the bottom, and not much else is visible other than perlage finishing. The movement does not appear to have "HOX" or any other identifying stamps inside, other than the usual Universal Geneve wording, 481 caliber, etc. Any thoughts and/or other examples of similar markings/placement would be appreciated. Thanks!

 

French made case?

 

That’s what I’m thinking but would love to see some other examples of full markings - as well as reference and serial numbers - on the outside, rather than on the inside...

 

Thanks - great info. But still surprised to see all of this on the OUTSIDE of the caseback. Is that a proper location in the world of UG? If so, can anyone post other similar examples? Thanks!

 

I think it is easier for custom inspection back then.

 

Still, would love to see pictures of some other examples of similar placement...

 

Anyone? @Mazoue ? @billving ? @Jonatan ? @CafeRacer ?
Thanks.

 

Sorry, I can't help.

 

I saw that same watch. I don’t believe that I have any with markings on the outside but I’ll check. I questioned the same thing. But I also noticed in this piece that it had make spring bars. Modified?

 

Well, mystery "solved" if circumstantial evidence can be conclusive. Just landed this 18k YG reference 12253, and am in love. The unusual placement of the stamps on the OUTSIDE of the case back had me concerned, but I've found several other examples of this EXACT reference, with the same placement, including one within just a few digits of my serial number (though conditions of them aren't great, or clearly suggest a redial in one example). Photos (and one link) below. Suggest Swiss case, imported into France, as @LouS and @Larry S suggested above. Thanks to OF community, as always!
Couldn't be more pleased to welcome it to the collection.


One example at link here -
https://www.orologiodacollezione.it/EN/orologi.php?IdFotogallery=1709&IdPro=279