Introducing: The Universal Genève Tribute to Compax – Inspired By Nina Rindt And Powered By Vintage Movements

Finally, a part of what made Rindt and her Universal Compax so recognizable was her choice of strap. The watch itself was a gift from Jochen to Nina, and one she seemed to really cherish, but she made it her own after spotting a Bund strap (like those worn by military pilots) in a shop window in Paris. A change of a strap made all the difference in the world as a fashion statement, and was bold and unusual for a woman at the time.

This time, Universal has gone the extra mile with the Bund strap, a possible foreshadowing of the brand’s direction in the upcoming years. They’ve tapped one of the world’s greatest leatherworkers, Satoru Hosai, to craft the straps. Hosai is well-known in his sphere of influence. He moved from Japan to Italy and eventually to Paris, where he worked for Hermès for eleven years before joining Moynat and then starting his own company in 2020. Hosai essentially works alone to produce around 25 bags a year, going so far as to make his own hardware. He is known to be meticulous and camera-shy, and the order book goes on for years. However, one thing he has never done before this collaboration is make watch straps. These are truly unique, bespoke pieces, meant to match their specific watch.