281

The Universal Genève Caliber 281 is a mid-20th-century manual-winding chronograph movement. Part of a column-wheel family including calibers 283, 285, and 287, it powered the Compax and Tri-Compax collections. Measuring 28.5 mm by 7.10 mm, it beats at 18,000 vibrations per hour (2.5 Hz). It features a horizontal clutch and column-wheel to manage hours, minutes, small seconds, central chronograph seconds, and 30-minute and 12-hour counters. Finishes often included bridge anglage, circular-grained main plates, and blued screws. It offers a 36-hour power reserve and was widely used in 1950s and 1960s Compax models, noted for its compact size, sturdy build, and smooth pusher operation. Chronograph: Column wheel.