Ben Clymer, Georges Kern Discuss Universal Genève’s Revival At Watches & Wonders - YouTube - Hodinkee
The interview highlights Universal Genève’s ambitious revival, aiming to showcase a broad range of iconic models in both heritage and reimagined forms. Kern explains that the brand’s strategy is to launch multiple collections at once, emphasizing its historic diversity with pieces such as the Compax chronographs. A focal point of the effort is the development of a signature 3/4‑rotor automatic movement, offering around a 70‑hour power reserve while maintaining thinness and distinctive visual finishing. This movement technology is extended to chronographs, creating a unique blend of practicality and aesthetic appeal. Production is split between an external partner for the automatic movement and in‑house manufacturing for the chronograph, sharing some components but retaining distinct engineering. Distribution will start with limited flagship boutiques in Geneva, London, New York, and Milan, complemented by a small network of partner stores worldwide. Early demand has been strong, with deposits covering roughly half of the year’s production within the first two days, positioning the revived Universal Genève as a high‑end alternative to Breitling.
