Universal Genève Microtor Cabriolet
On the occasion of Baselworld 2008, Universal Genève presented the Microtor Cabriolet, the first shaped timepiece (since the brand’s renewal) distinguished by a daring and contemporary spirit.
Inspired by a legendary model invented and patented by the brand in 1928, which enabled the wearer to completely turn over the case of his watch to protect it from shocks, the Microtor Cabriolet houses the Microtor UG 101 movement with automatic winding by an off-centred micro-oscillating weight. Measuring 32.5 mm wide and 52mm long including the lugs, and 11.35 mm thick, its geometrical profile exudes a sense of power finely counter-balanced by the ergonomic design of the carrier and the lugs.
The case is mounted on a rotating arbor fitted with two ball pawls that position it correctly after it has pivoted 180° degrees. This avoids any risk of scratching the inside of the carrier when closing the case. Moreover, it features an integrated pushbutton at 6 o’clock, secured by two side rods that hold the case firmly in place even if it is jarred. The case-back reveals two “8-shaped” transparent apertures enabling one to admire the Microtor and the escapement.
Available in 6 versions, the dials feature a minute circle divided in two separate zones: one from 10 to 2 o’clock featuring a simple style that enhances legibility; and another from 4 to 8 o’clock with a minute indication. At 6 o’clock, the date window reveals three numerals, with the middle one (the current date) indicated by a triangle in a different colour depending on the dial version.
The Microtor Cabriolet is available with two leather strap versions enhanced with varnished edges and hand-finished straight stitching: crocodile or Barenia leather, a quality superior to that of sanded leather. All are fitted with an exclusive steel triple-blade folding clasp topped by a cap incorporating two safety pushbuttons.
Technical details
Movement
Manufactory-made Microtor UG 101 calibre, 11 ½ lignes, automatic winding by off-centre micro-rotor, Côtes de Genève bridges, 28,800 vib/h, 30 jewels, 42-hour power reserve
Functions
Hours, minutes, seconds and date
Case
Rectangular, reversible, 316L steel
Anti-reflective, shaped sapphire crystal
Screw-down back with shaped sapphire crystal
Water-resistant to 50 m
Dial
Black galvanized sunray motif
White transfer minute track and Roman numerals
Applied, facetted and diamond-polished hour-markers
Date window showing 3 days at 6 o’clock, with red triangle indicating date of the day
Strap
Genuine crocodile, hand-stitched, steel triple-folding safety clasp
Other versions
With 6 different dials: silvered with black Arabic numerals in the sheet music style or not; silvered with dark-blue Arabic numerals; black with white Arabic numerals; black with white Roman numerals; anthracite with bold aubergine Roman numerals. Also available on a Barenia calfskin strap.
