The Curious Case of the Universal Genève Polerouter - The Unsung Hero of Luxury Timepieces
Fellow luxury watch enthusiasts, buckle up! Because today, we're going on an unexpected journey, one that might take you to a place where most luxury watch aficionados rarely tread. Sounds interesting? I thought so! Before we get into it, a quick question - does the name Gérald Genta ring a bell? Of course, it does. The man behind Audemars Piguet’s Royal Oak and Patek Philippe’s Nautilus!
Finding the Polerouter'
However, long before these blue chips stole his limelight, Genta conceived a beauty that often goes unnoticed - the Universal Genève Polerouter. Is it ringing any bells? If not, don't worry. By the end of this, you might end up a fan. Now, let’s dive deep, or should I say, 'dial deep' into our theme for the day.
A Brief History Lesson
The Polerouter was first launched in 1954 to celebrate Scandinavian Airlines System’s, (SAS for short), first-ever direct flights along the North Pole from Europe to America. Impressive, right? What's more impressive is that the watches were especially designed to endure strong magnetic fields. Talk about being multi-talented!
The Finer Details
The Polerouter stands as a testament to Genta's ingenious designs. Wrapped in a 34mm case that prioritizes functionality, every Polerouter represents a distinctive take on luxury. With a dainty date mechanism tucked away at the 3 o'clock position, to the elegantly designed dual crown system, the Polerouter is all about the subtly luxe aesthetic.
Is it Worth Investing in a Polerouter?
Simply put, yes! The Polerouter is a luxury watch that doesn't scream luxury, making it a perfect companion for daily wear. Prices? You can get a classic Polerouter from the 1950s in mint condition between $1000 - $4000. Compared to its luxury counterparts (Rolex, I'm looking at you!), it's like stumbling upon a Louis Vuitton bag at a yard sale!
Now, whether you're a seasoned watch collector or a newbie, the Universal Genève Polerouter is something to consider to diversify and deepen your collection. Who knows, our subtle Polerouter may someday break out of its shell and outshine some of the more mainstream pieces. So, grab them before they join the leagues of Royal Oak and Submariners.
Final Thoughts
In the end, the Polerouter's significance is best summed up by Paul Boutros, Head of Watches, Americas, Phillips: 'Its combination of history, design, and technical achievement is remarkable... in my opinion, it's a hidden gem.' So, next time you find yourself drifting towards the familiar lure of Omega or Tag Heuer, remember our rugged, resilient, and handsome unsung hero – the Universal Genève Polerouter.
Now, isn't it time you updated your collection?
