Universal

• cal. 138C automatic bumper nickel lever movement • dial with polychrome cloisonné enamel dial depicting a map of Saudi Arabia, matte pink chapter ring with Arabic script, aperture for date • screw-down case back • case, dial and movement signed

The movement is running at the time of cataloguing, however it may require service soon. The signature on the dial has the appearance of having melted. There is no visible loss to the enamel. The case shows surface scuffs from moderate wear. The outside of the case back is numbered 1666743 and 1000105 3. The strap of this watch contains endangered species; please see Important Notices for further information.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. All dimensions in catalogue descriptions are approximate. Condition reports may not specify mechanical replacements or imperfections to the movement, case, dial, pendulum, separate base(s) or dome. Watches in water-resistant cases have been opened to examine movements but no warranties are made that the watches are currently water-resistant. Please note that we do not guarantee the authenticity of any individual component parts, such as wheels, hands, crowns, crystals, screws, bracelets and leather bands, since subsequent repairs and restoration work may have resulted in the replacement of original parts. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue. In particular, please note it is the purchaser's responsibility to comply with any applicable import and export matters, particularly in relation to lots incorporating materials from endangered species.NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

**Please be advised that bands made of materials derived from endangered or otherwise protected species (i.e. alligator and crocodile) are not sold with the watches and are for display purposes only. We reserve the right to remove these bands prior to shipping.

Important Notice regarding importation into the United States of Rolex watches
Sotheby's cannot arrange for the delivery of Rolex watches to the United States because U.S. laws restricts the import of Rolex watches. The buyer or a designated agent may collect the property in the country of sale."

Accompanied by a letter from Universal Geneve dated March 25th, 2008 confirming this watch was manufactured in 1954.

This watch depicting the map of Saudi Arabia was gifted to the Aramco Head of International Affairs directly from King Saud. According to family history, the Aramco executive admired the watch and it was immediately presented to the executive as a gift. During the 1950s, Aramco enjoyed a close relationship with the royal family and this watch represents the spirit of this lucrative partnership. Today, Aramco is the largest, richest, and most valuable company of all time. 

Universal created watches such as the present in the 1950s at the request of special clients. For further examples featuring maps of Egypt, Africa, and Joan of Arc in polychrome enamel, see Antiquorum's 'Universal Watch: 100 Years' auction catalogue, Geneva, April 9th, 1994 catalogue, lots 95-98.