In the 1960s, Finnish model Nina Rindt became an unexpected style figure in the Formula One paddock. Married to racing champion Jochen Rindt, she was often seen trackside with a Universal Genève Compax chronograph on her wrist, timing her husband’s laps.
The watch, a gift from Jochen, is said to have been modified with a red chronograph seconds hand for improved visibility. Yet it was Nina’s decision to replace the steel bracelet with a wide leather cuff that defined its identity. Originally designed for pilots to protect against cockpit heat, the so-called “bund” strap gave the chronograph a bold new look that reflected Nina’s personal style. Photographs of her wearing it became iconic, and the watch was later nicknamed “the Nina” by collectors.
More than half a century later, Universal Genève revisits that story with a new limited series: the Tribute to Compax. The collection marks an important step ahead of the brand’s official relaunch planned for 2026, following its acquisition by Breitling.
Universal Genève will produce two sets of three watches, crafted in 18k white or red gold with contrasting enamel dials. Each model is powered by the Calibre Universal 281, a manual-winding column-wheel chronograph originally used in vintage Compax references. These new editions are the only “Ninas” to feature this historical movement.
The dials of the first set are white with black counters, black with white counters, and brown with black counters, all featuring red chronograph seconds hands.
The second trio includes black with white counters, white with black counters, and blue with black counters—each again with red chronograph hands.
The Tribute to Compax watches come with handmade bund straps by Japanese leather artisan Satoru Hosoi, known for his work with Hermès and Moynat.
For his first watchmaking project, he created a three-piece leather cuff sewn into one seamless unit, signed by both Universal Genève and HOSOÏ-PARIS.
The colour combinations include brown or black straps for the white gold watches, and taupe or olive for the red gold models.
Measuring 36 mm in diameter and 12.67 mm thick, the cases are fitted with cambered sapphire crystals, glareproofed on both sides, and fixed aluminium bezels with tachymeter scales. Water resistance is rated at 50 metres (165 feet).
Inside, the restored Calibre 281 movements reflect Universal Genève’s intent to reconnect with its historical expertise in chronograph design.
Hand-wound and equipped with a column wheel, the calibre operates at 18,000 vibrations per hour (2.5 Hz) and offers a 36-hour power reserve.
Only two complete sets of the Tribute to Compax will be produced, with prices available on request. Proceeds will go to the Geneva Watchmaking School, supporting training in traditional crafts. universalgeneve.com
