Breaking news: Breitling acquired UG

One of the coolest brands out there, Universal Genève, with models like de Polerouter, is coming back into the luxury watch market. And that’s pretty exciting! It’s interesting to see that Breitling acquired Universal Genève, since these brands don’t really match, right? For a rumored 70 million dollars, Breitling acquired UG. So, what’s going to happen with the coolest (vintage) brand out there? Will we be seeing some huge Polerouters or Compax chronographs? Hope not.

Timo Klinge

Chief Entertainment Officer

Published at: 28/12/2023

The history of Universal Genève

When it comes to some iconic pieces in the vintage watch market, Universal Genève is one of the coolest brands out there with the well-known Polerouter and Bi-Compax models, such as the Compax Chronograph: in my opinion the best alternative to the famous Daytona to be honest. Ever since the start of Universal Genève, they were known for their complicated but thin movements and awesome designs, such as the Compax chronograph which is just some serious eye-candy for most vintage lovers, like myself. And I just hope that Breitling isn’t messing that up by the recent acquisition of the iconic brand.

Breitling x Universal Genève: what’s that going to look like?

To be honest, it’s a wild guess for sure. But I just hope that Breitling will respect the iconic brand and not put a shiny bracelet on the case, or increase the case thickness or size for the new models that will be released probably somewhere in 2024. As long as they will develop a new chronograph movement which isn’t as think as the B01 from Breitling, it will be fine I guess. It would be awesome to see some vintage inspired new models within the Universal Genève collection in 2024. What’s your opinion about this recent acquisition?

Universal Genève requires a completely different touch to the brand compared to Breitling, and that’s the most interesting in my opinion. Breitling’s CEO, Georges Kern, is aware of the task ahead and the profound heritage. It doesn’t mean anything, but at least it’s promising to hear.