The Universal Genève White Shadow was the stainless-steel counterpart to the brand’s Golden Shadow line, a series born out of the mid-century race to produce the thinnest, most elegant dress watches on the market. In the 1960s, no brand embodied this pursuit of refinement better than Universal Genève.
What sets this piece apart is its dial. While most White Shadows were delivered with simple, monotone finishes, this rare example features a vibrant “Starry Night” motif — a deep, layered lacquer base scattered with hand-painted silver stars. Decades later, the lacquer has developed subtle hairline cracks, adding an organic texture that gives the dial even more depth and character. It’s the kind of aging that collectors prize: evidence of originality and time’s quiet artistry.
The slim tonneau-shaped case frames the dial perfectly, measuring 35mm across and just 6mm thick. At its heart beats the legendary caliber 1-66 micro-rotor automatic movement — introduced in 1966 as the thinnest self-winding caliber in the world at just 2.5mm. This movement wasn’t just a technical milestone; it became the backbone of Universal Genève’s ultra-thin offerings well into the 1990s.
Completed with its original Gay Frères stainless-steel bracelet, this White Shadow represents both the elegance of mid-century design and the innovative spirit of Universal Genève. Rare, refined, and full of personality, it’s a watch that balances technical mastery with artistic flair.
Details
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Reference: 866101/05
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Year: Circa 1967
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Case No.: 2566630
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Material: Stainless steel
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Dimensions: 35mm diameter, 6mm thickness
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Crystal: Plexiglass
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Lume: None
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Movement: Universal Genève self-winding caliber 1-66 (micro-rotor)
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Strap/Bracelet: Original Universal Genève / Gay Frères stainless steel
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Lug Width: 18mm
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Box/Papers: No
Condition Notes: The starry night dial retains its vivid colors with scattered painted silver stars. The lacquer has developed fine hairline cracks over time, adding depth and uniqueness without detracting from legibility. The case shows honest wear consistent with age. The movement is currently running.
