While the Tri Compax model is most commonly known to be a Universal Geneve watch, there is actually a very rare variant not known to many. This example is indeed a Tri-Compax, but instead branded by Girard Perregaux.
The Tri-Compax, in general, is very well known to collectors for being an alternative to Patek Philippe, as both Universal Geneve and Patek were marketed and sold by Henri Stern in the US. For many years, the Tri-Compax has become one of the most collectable vintage models out there, loved for its complicated movement. It features a chronograph, a triple calendar and a moon phase, laid out in four subdials on the dial and powered by the in-house Universal Geneve Cal. 287. At 12 o’clock you have the day of the month with the moonphase within, with the chronograph minute and hour counter and running seconds beneath. Two apertures at 2 and 10 o’clock display the month and day respectively and it is topped off with a silvered tachymeter scale and sword hands.
The stainless steel case measures in at 35mm, featuring nicely bevelled lugs and making for a great dress watch. With vintage collecting, it is all about the details, and this alternate branding by Girard Perregaux makes this example one of the rarest Tri-Compaxes out there.
