Omega Constellation Chronometer 168.001 (1963)

Presented for auction by Second Vintage This sought-after reference 168.001 Constellation is defined by its distinctive dog-leg lugs and a striking, heavy "stardust" patina across the dial. Powered by the chronometer-certified Omega Caliber 561, this collector-favourite timepiece retains its solid gold caseback observatory medallion and decagonal signed crown, offering a superb opportunity to acquire a classic mid-century Omega with immense visual character. Brand: Omega Model: Constellation Reference Number: 168.001 Serial Number: 20031850 Movement: Automatic, Caliber 561, 24 Jewels Dial: Heavy stardust patina with applied gold-tone indices Case Size: 36mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Stainless steel and gold capped Production Year: 1963 Condition: Good vintage condition. Timegrapher: +7+10s/day, performing remarkably well. Dial and Hands The dial exhibits a heavy, even stardust patina across its entire surface, presenting a highly individualized aesthetic. Despite this heavy aging, the typography remains clearly legible. Applied gold-tone hour indices, the Omega logo, and the signature Constellation star are fully intact and catch the light beautifully. A date window is positioned at three o'clock, finished with an applied frame. The dauphine style hands show surface oxidation and spotting that visually matches the dial patina perfectly, maintaining a cohesive and appropriately aged character throughout. Case and Crystal The stainless steel and gold-capped case is characterized by its distinctive dog-leg lugs, which retain good definition and preserved geometry. The case displays moderate surface scratches, honest wear, and handling marks consistent with its age. A smooth gold-tone bezel frames the dial, showing light scratches and minor wear. On the right side, the watch features a decagonal crown that is clearly signed with the Omega logo, noting light wear to the gold-tone finish on its edges. The stainless steel caseback is highlighted by an intact, solid gold Constellation observatory medallion. The domed acrylic crystal remains in good condition, showing only light surface scratches visible under direct light and free from major cracks or chips. Movement Inside beats the chronometer-certified Omega Caliber 561 automatic movement, featuring twenty-four jewels and adjusted to five positions and temperature. The caliber presents a clean copper-colored finish with no visible corrosion, oxidation, or damage, while all engravings remain crisp and clear. The recorded timegrapher result is +7+10s/day. Exhibiting remarkable accuracy and consistency, performing brilliantly for a vintage timepiece. Strap The watch is fitted with a brown leather strap featuring contrast stitching. The strap shows light signs of wear and complements the vintage character of the timepiece beautifully. Condition Good vintage condition. The stainless steel and gold-capped case shows honest handling marks and surface scratches, while the signature dog-leg lugs retain good definition. The dial displays a heavy and even stardust patina that is matched by the oxidized dauphine hands, creating a cohesive visual presence. The crystal and bezel present well with light wear, and the solid gold caseback medallion remains fully intact. Supported by the recorded timegrapher result, the movement is performing very strongly. Dimensions The case measures 36mm in diameter, excluding the crown. Remarks This Constellation represents a superb opportunity to acquire a highly sought-after reference 168.001. The combination of its iconic case geometry, heavy stardust dial patina, and the chronometer-certified Caliber 561 makes this a compelling addition to any serious collection. History Introduced in 1952, the Omega Constellation was designed to be the brand's flagship chronometer, representing the pinnacle of their precision watchmaking. By the 1960s, the line evolved to include some of its most celebrated case designs. The reference 168.001 is particularly celebrated among collectors for its distinctive dog-leg lugs, a hallmark of mid-century case geometry often associated with the era's most influential designers. Powered by the highly regarded Caliber 561, these models cemented the Constellation's reputation for mechanical reliability and refined aesthetics, making them enduring favorites within the vintage watch community. / Second Vintage SKU: OME-CAX-0001