In the late 1960s, Finnish model Nina Rindt became an unlikely style icon of the Formula One paddock. Married to world champion Jochen Rindt, she was often seen timing his laps with a Universal Genève Compax on her wrist. A watch that, through her own instinctive flair, would become one of the most collectible chronographs in history. Legend has it Jochen replaced the seconds hand with a red one for better legibility, but it was Nina who gave the watch its soul. Finding its bracelet too severe, she slipped it into a wide leather cuff she’d discovered in Paris, a military-style bund strap that she transformed into a statement of effortless, androgynous chic. The image of Nina, stopwatch in hand, became immortal.
Now, more than half a century later, Universal Genève revisits that moment with the Tribute to Compax: two sets of three watches made in 18k white and red gold. Each features grand feu enamel dials and handcrafted bund straps by Japanese artisan Satoru Hosoi, which is his first collaboration with a watch brand.
Powered by restored Universal 281 movements, these six chronographs embody UNiversal Genève’s renewed spirit. Limited, exquisite, and steeped in story, they mark the return of Le Couturier de la Montre .