The Polerouter was introduced in 1954 to mark Scandinavian Airlines System's inaugural polar flight from Copenhagen to Los Angeles — the first commercial air route over the North Pole. The watch was designed by Gérald Genta, then 23 years old, in what would be his first commission brought to market. The design is defined by its elegant twisted lugs and clean functional dial. The movement that made the Polerouter technically significant arrived in 1955: Calibre 215, one of the earliest micro-rotor movements in watchmaking history. At just 4.1mm thick, it was the slimmest automatic movement in the world at its introduction.
Madame Genta later recalled that whenever he spoke about his career, he always began with the Polerouter. The reference cannot be confirmed from the caseback as these are no longer legible— reference and serial numbers on Polerouters were engraved on the outer edge of the caseback and are known to wear away from general use.
However, the combination of the 33.3mm stainless steel case, Calibre 215-9, and the dial inscription "Universal Genève Polerouter" and the U logo is consistent with the ref. 20375 Polerouter Genève family, produced c. 1958–1962. The stainless steel case is in overall honest vintage condition with traces of use consistent with a watch of this age.
The screw-down caseback seats firmly and the crown is original. A new Plexiglass crystal has been fitted. The silvered sunburst dial is signed "Universal Genève Polerouter" with the U logo has undergone partial restoration: the blue and red colouring in the applied hour markers has been freshly applied. The hands are original with period-consistent lume.
Inside is the Calibre 215-9, an automatic micro-rotor movement with 28 jewels. The movement has been serviced in-house and is running strong. This watch is fitted with a new leather strap. It is delivered with our six-month guarantee. Worldwide shipping is available and inquiries are welcome.
