Omega - Constellation Chronometer - No reserve price - 168.016 - Men - 1968

Presented for auction by Second Vintage The Omega Constellation stands as one of the most significant pillars of mid-century Swiss watchmaking, representing the absolute pinnacle of Omega’s chronometer production. Introduced in the late 1960s, the distinctive C-Shape case design—penned by the legendary Gérald Genta—ushered the Constellation into a new era of integrated elegance. This specific example beautifully marries that iconic architectural case with a brilliant fluted bezel and a sophisticated Day-Date complication. Powered by Omega's highly regarded chronometer-certified movement and presented on its classic beads-of-rice bracelet, this timepiece offers collectors a superb opportunity to acquire a defining model from Omega’s golden age of mechanical precision. Brand: Omega Model: Constellation Reference Number: 168.016 Serial Number: 27631997 Movement: Automatic Caliber 751 Dial: Silver sunburst dial featuring applied faceted indices, exhibiting a clean surface with very light age-consistent micro-spotting visible under magnification. Case Size: 35 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Stainless steel Production Year: 1968 Condition: Excellent vintage condition with sharp case lines and a beautifully preserved dial. Dial and Hands The dial of this Constellation is a masterclass in mid-century legibility and refinement, featuring a sweeping silver sunburst texture that catches the light beautifully. The typography is crisp, with the applied Omega logo and sans-serif brand text sitting above the elegant serif script of the Constellation name and its signature applied star. The applied faceted baton indices are finished with black inserts, adding striking contrast that is perfectly matched by the black-inlaid baton hands. At the three o'clock position, a stepped window frames the Day-Date complication. A close visual inspection reveals an exceptionally clean presentation to the naked eye, while magnification shows only very light, honest micro-dust and faint age-related spotting that is entirely consistent with a vintage timepiece of this era. There is no heavy staining, moisture damage, or print loss, leaving the dial highly attractive and collector-ready. Case and Crystal The 35 millimeter stainless steel C-Shape case is a triumph of late 1960s design, characterized by its flowing lug profile and the seamless integration of the bracelet. The case retains excellent geometry, showcasing a beautiful transition between the brushed upper surfaces and the polished case flanks. The striking fluted bezel adds a touch of texture and elegance, catching the light dynamically from every angle. The watch is fitted with a domed crystal that perfectly complements the curvature of the case. The original Omega-signed crown is present and features crisp knurling. Turning the watch over, the screw-down caseback displays the iconic Geneva Observatory medallion beneath eight stars, all of which remain crisp and deeply defined, indicating careful wear over the decades. Movement Inside this Constellation beats the copper-finished Omega Caliber 751, an automatic chronometer-certified movement featuring 24 jewels and adjusted to five positions and temperature. The movement presents beautifully in the macro photographs, with clean bridges, vibrant rubies, and sharp engravings, including the clearly visible serial number 27631997 which dates production to the late 1960s. Exhibiting remarkable accuracy and consistency, performing brilliantly for a vintage timepiece. The timegrapher results show an impressive -1 to -4 seconds per day with strong amplitude. Strap The watch is fitted with its original stainless steel beads-of-rice bracelet, a highly sought-after pairing that completes the vintage aesthetic perfectly. The intricate links provide exceptional comfort and drape beautifully on the wrist. The folding clasp is prominently stamped with the Omega logo, and the endlinks are clearly marked with the correct 555 designation. The bracelet shows normal, honest stretch consistent with its age and will comfortably accommodate a wrist size up to 18 centimeters. Condition This timepiece is presented in excellent vintage condition. The dial is wonderfully preserved, showing only the faintest signs of natural aging under magnification while remaining visually stunning on the wrist. The stainless steel case is robust and well-defined, exhibiting normal, light handling marks that respect the original Genta design language. The crisp Observatory medallion on the caseback and the excellent performance of the chronometer movement further cement this watch as a thoroughly well-cared-for example. Dimensions The case measures 35 mm in diameter, excluding the crown. The included bracelet will accommodate a wrist size of up to 18 cm. Remarks A C-Shape Omega Constellation on a beads-of-rice bracelet is a cornerstone piece for any serious vintage enthusiast. The combination of the fluted bezel, the Day-Date layout, and the legendary Caliber 751 makes this specific configuration highly desirable. Its strong mechanical health and handsome aesthetic presence ensure it is ready to be worn and admired daily. History The Omega Constellation was launched in 1952 to serve as the brand's flagship chronometer, celebrating Omega's numerous precision records at the Geneva and Kew-Teddington observatories. In the 1960s, Omega commissioned the young designer Gérald Genta to refresh the line, resulting in the now-legendary C-Shape case. This design moved away from the pie-pan dials and faceted lugs of the 1950s, introducing a more integrated, fluid, and modern aesthetic that would influence watchmaking for decades. The addition of the Day-Date complication alongside the robust Caliber 751 cemented the C-Shape Constellation as the ultimate luxury daily wearer of its time. / Second Vintage SKU: OME-OAC-0021