UNIVERSAL Lot n° 24

UNIVERSAL Circa 1920 Known as "Caproni Single-pusher bracelet chronograph in 18k (750) yellow gold, once owned by aviation pioneer Gianni Caproni. Case: round on hinge, gold bezel, dedicated on back with G Caproni's handwritten signature, signed Dial: white enamel with stylized Arabic numerals for the hours, 2 counters for seconds and 30 minutes, 1/5th of a second graduation and tachymeter scale, signed Movement: mechanical, bimetallic balance-spring, anchor escapement, advance / retard adjustment Strap/clasp: pilot's leather strap integrating the watch case Diameter: 42 mm Gross weight 68,70 g A 18k yellow gold manual winding chronograph wristwatch belonging to a pioneer of aviation Gianni Caproni This wristwatch chronograph is undoubtedly one of the first wristwatches equipped with a chronograph caliber. This model is typical of Universal's production in the post-war years. The Universal brand, with a rich history dating back to 1894, turned early on to the wristwatch, the symbol of the 20th century with the chronograph that was to become the indispensable tool of pilots. There's no doubt that Gianni Caproni, one of the pioneers of aviation, was to set his sights on this magnificent chronograph, engraved with his name on the back - a common practice for personal items at the time. Gianni Caproni was the Italian engineer and builder to whom France turned at the start of the First World War because of its shortage of bombers. He was awarded the Légion d'honneur in 1930 and made a Chevalier for services rendered to France. On June 12, 1930, to celebrate this appointment, he held a banquet for the last surviving pilots of Caproni aircraft in the First World War, to thank them for their wartime efforts. According to research, documentation and oral and family tradition, the watch was presented to the pilot Alcide Sabourin, who was present at the dinner. Alcide Sabourin is described by his lieutenant as a "dedicated, modest and courageous pilot officer. Demonstrated, during 90 night bombardments, the finest military qualities." Beyond the object and its symbolic charge, this wristwatch can be considered the pioneer of the wristwatch chronograph at the beginning of the 20th century, a true technical feat. Although the Universal brand has just been reborn thanks to its takeover by Breitling, this watch can be widely regarded as a rare testimony to an era and a historic souvenir for the brand. The watch is accompanied by the "Caproni" banquet menu bearing Mr. Sabourin's handwritten signature, his personal invitation to the banquet, a mission order from Alcide Sabourin dated August 11, 1918, an extract from the official journal of the Ministry of War dated September 4, 1920, two photos of Alcide Sabourin next to his aircraft, copies of personal documents such as his Brevet d'Aviateur Militaire and a booklet of photos of Caproni aircraft. Condition report given as an indication: Sold as is, without warranty General wear and tear, signs of polishing Movement works, but needs servicing Condition report given as an indication: Sold as is, without warranty Signs of wear from use visible throughout, signs of polishing Movement is ticking but plan a standard overhaul