We make luxury accessible for all. We are proud to offer only the finest certified vintage and second-hand fashion accessories from the world's most exclusive fashion houses. All products meet our strict standard of excellence.
We make luxury accessible for all. We are proud to offer only the finest certified vintage and second-hand fashion accessories from the world's most exclusive fashion houses. All products meet our strict standard of excellence.We make luxury accessible for all. We are proud to offer only the finest certified vintage and second-hand fashion accessories from the world's most exclusive fashion houses. All products meet our strict standard of excellence.
An elegant choice for formal dinners, weddings, or boardroom meetings, this ultra-thin Universal Genève from circa 1969 slips neatly under a shirt cuff. The 31mm stainless steel case and silver dial lend timeless refinement to tailored attire and eveningwear.
Please note that the majority of our items are vintage and therefore have tales to tell unless stated otherwise. Therefore, please look at pictures, descriptions and measurements provided as they give you the best idea of the story this item has to tell.
* Please note that when you buy a vintage product, the dimensions may vary slightly from a new one depending on previous care and storage.
Q: Which year was this Universal Genève Ultra Thin made? A: The serial number 2946289 places this example in the late 1960s to early 1970s; we date it circa 1969 in line with published Universal Genève serial guides.
Q: What movement does this reference usually have? A: Reference 842101 is typically fitted with Universal Genève calibre 42, a hand‑wound movement known for its slim profile. As with any vintage piece, small variations are possible across decades of production.
Q: How should I wind and set a hand‑wound watch like this? A: Wind once a day, ideally at the same time. With the watch off your wrist, turn the crown clockwise slowly until you feel a firm stop—do not force it past that point. To set the time, gently pull the crown to the setting position, rotate the hands to the desired time, then push the crown back in.
Q: Is it water resistant? A: As a late‑1960s dress watch, water resistance should not be assumed. Even if a vintage watch was once rated, gaskets and tolerances age. Avoid any contact with water, steam, or high humidity and remove the watch before washing hands, showering, or swimming.
Q: How often should it be serviced? A: Mechanical watches generally benefit from a full service every 3–5 years, or sooner if you notice poor timekeeping, moisture under the crystal, or rough winding. Always use a qualified watchmaker experienced with vintage pieces.
Q: What type of crystal does it have and how do I care for it? A: Period examples of ref. 842101 use an acrylic (plexiglass) crystal. Light scuffs can usually be polished with a dedicated acrylic polish and a soft cloth; deeper scratches or cracks should be addressed by a professional.
Q: Will the 31 mm case suit my wrist? A: Vintage dress watches were designed smaller than many modern pieces. A 31 mm case wears elegantly on slimmer wrists and suits anyone who prefers classic proportions; it can be styled as a unisex dress watch.
Q: Can the bracelet be adjusted or swapped for a strap? A: Yes. The textured stainless‑steel bracelet on this watch fits wrists up to 19 cm and can typically be sized by removing links. If you prefer a leather strap, a watchmaker can advise on the correct fitment and spring bars for this case.
Q: What exactly is included with the watch? A: Everything supplied is listed under product information for this item. This listing notes no additional items beyond the watch itself.
Q: Is this piece suitable for daily wear? A: Many collectors enjoy wearing vintage watches regularly. For longevity, avoid water, shocks and strong magnets, store it safely when not in use, and keep to routine servicing. Expect minor daily variance in timekeeping—that’s normal for a well‑maintained vintage manual watch.
SHIPPING
All orders are insured and trackable. Once your shipment has been issued, a link to our Track & Trace service will be provided where you can track your shipment and check delivery status online.
A Retro Tale offers free shipping to most EU countries. Click here to see the full list of eligible countries.
The shipping fee will be clearly shown during the checkout process. In some cases—such as during promotions or depending on your delivery location—shipping costs may vary. If no special rates apply, the standard international shipping fee of $49 will be charged.
We ship all orders from Sweden. Depending on your country’s import regulations, your order may be subject to customs duties, VAT, GST, or other local taxes upon arrival.
These charges are typically collected by the shipping carrier at the time of delivery and are not included in the product price.
We offer secure shipping via DHL and UPS with the following delivery time:
Outside Europe: 3-6 business days.
If you have any questions about customs, duties, or taxes, feel free to contact our customer service team — we’re happy to help!
RETURNS
A Retro Tale offers 14 days return policy upon receipt of your order.
In order to request a return, please email [email protected] with your order number and state ”return request” in your email. From there, our Customer Support will confirm that your return request has been approved and further instructions will be provided by email.
Please note that the return shipping fee is covered by the returnee and all return shippings to A Retro Tale must be traceable. Thus, please retain your receipt of shipping and tracking number until your return has been completed and you have received your refund.
Please allow up to 10 business days for your return to be completed from the return shipping date as shipping time might vary depending on shipping country and shipping provider.
AUTHENTICITY GUARANTEED
A Retro Tale specialises in vintage and pre-owned goods from the world's most loved fashion houses. We guarantee that all of our products are 100 percent authentic. Every item sold on our site undergoes a rigorous authentication process, in which our experts delve deep into the heritage of a brand via its craftsmanship techniques. This requires a rigorous and methodical process.
For us, authentication is about more than expertise; it offers a fascinating insight into the history of fashion and the craftsmanship involved in production.
/ Universal Genève
/ Watches
/ Mens watches
• Stainless steel case, 31mm
• Silver dial with stick hour markers
• Textured stainless steel bracelet
• Manual winding movement
• Vintage, circa 1969
