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Universal Geneve - Skeleton Dial

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Details

The center is the show

At first glance you see black. Then you notice the gold skeleton work opening up the middle of the dial. This Universal Genève from the late 1980s to early 1990s plays with contrast in a way most dress watches do not. Glossy black on the outer ring. Openworked gold mechanics in the center.

It is dressy, but not conventional.

Where this one stands apart

Universal did not flood the market with skeleton pieces like this. The combination of a black outer dial and exposed gold center gives the watch structure. It is not fully skeletonized. It is framed. That framing is what makes it work.

The 18k yellow gold case keeps it grounded in traditional dress territory, while the openworked center adds personality. It feels like a late-era interpretation of classic dress watch design.

What you need to know

Condition is very good overall. The case appears unpolished and presents cleanly. The skeleton work is sharp and the black outer dial remains glossy. The watch is fitted on leather with its original signed gold buckle. Mechanically, it is running well after passing by our test bench. 

A dress watch with edge

This is not a quiet two-hand gold dress watch. The skeleton center gives it depth and movement, while the black dial keeps it controlled.

For someone who wants a gold dress piece from a respected Swiss name that does something slightly different without going overboard, this Universal Genève delivers design, contrast, and presence in a compact format.

Key Specs

Model: Openworked Dress Watch

Year: 1986–1990s

Movement: Manual wind

Case Size: 30 × 32mm

Bezel: 18K yellow gold

Bracelet: Leather strap

Dial: Openworked gold skeleton center with glossy black outer dial

SKU: 151

Universal Geneve - Skeleton Dial
Universal Geneve - Skeleton Dial Sale price$7,650.00 USD

What Our Clients Say About Us

Dan Young
4 months ago

I knew I was gonna like Danny, based on his name, but nothing could’ve prepared me for how great of an experience this was. He had the most beautiful 70s Seamaster Cosmic on his website and I was set to be married 2 days later - I arranged to buy it but before leaving we both realized it needed to be serviced. I panicked, because I was literally buying this for my wedding, and Danny being the legend he is, loaned me a nearly identical Seamaster to make sure I could get through the event Never have I had someone go so above and beyond for me, especially while purchasing one of the lesser priced items in their inventory. He serviced my watch and exchanged it with me after the wedding on a super fast turnaround timeline. I would sincerely recommend you visit this guy, you will not be disappointed Edit: adding a pic of the loaner (two tone) and the owner (crosshair)

Patrick Farella
5 months ago

Great service and shop. Danny and his team were incredibly accommodating, professional, and kind. Great selection of vintage watches. Their store is the hidden gem in the diamond district.

Zee06
2 months ago

This was my first real luxury watch purchase, a Rolex 15200 Date 34mm, I own Tissots and a Laco, but those are entry level luxury watches. I found Danny’s Vintage Watches online, and had great feedback both on Google, Chrono24 and the Reddit watch community. So decided to give him a shot as buying online can be a crap shoot. Ordered Monday night, was at my doorstep Friday morning. Despite the watch being over 30 years old, serial number says it’s from 91, the watch looked new. Didn’t come with box or papers, and was shipped in a plastic sleeve wrapped in bubble wrap. Danny was always available to answer questions. I’ll be buying from Danny again for the next purchase…saw a couple of Speedmasters on his site I liked….

Mohammed Islam
4 months ago

Can't recommend Danny's vintage watches enough!!! My first Omega ever and im in love have been wearing every day since I purchased it. Danny's shop is a must visit if you are in NYC looking for a watch!!!