Omega - Constellation - 168.0056 - Men - 1973

Presented for auction by Second Vintage The Omega Constellation stands as a towering pillar of mid-century horological achievement, representing the absolute pinnacle of the brand's chronometer testing and elegant design. This particular example showcases the iconic C-shape case architecture, a design language that revolutionized luxury steel watches and remains highly sought after by collectors today. With its beautifully preserved dial and robust mechanical pedigree, this Constellation perfectly captures the sophisticated spirit of 1970s Omega. Brand: Omega Model: Constellation Reference Number: 168.0056 Serial Number: 36156774 Movement: Automatic Caliber 1011 Dial: Silvered dial with applied indices, exceptionally clean condition with warm creamy lume plots Case Size: 34 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Stainless Steel Production Year: 1973 Condition: Excellent vintage condition, exceptionally preserved dial and sharp case lines Dial and Hands The silvered dial is a masterclass in understated elegance, presenting in exceptionally clean vintage condition. It features a subtle, refined texture that plays beautifully with the light, free from any distracting spots, moisture damage, or heavy discoloration. The dial is adorned with applied stainless steel indices featuring central black inserts, perfectly matching the applied Omega logo and the signature Constellation star at the bottom. The printed typography, including the serif "Constellation" script and the proud "Chronometer Officially Certified" designation, remains crisp and fully intact. Small, perfectly aged lume plots sit at the outer edge of each hour marker, displaying a warm, even, creamy patina. The matching steel stick hands also feature black inserts and luminous material that harmonizes beautifully with the dial plots, showing only faint signs of natural aging upon close inspection under the crystal. Case and Crystal The 34mm stainless steel case features the beloved C-shape profile, defined by its integrated lugs and elegant curves. The case remains in impressive condition, retaining a strong contrast between the brushed finish on the upper surfaces and the polished case flanks. The lug profiles are sharp, exhibiting only honest, light handling marks and superficial scratches consistent with careful wear over the decades, with no signs of heavy polishing. The watch is fitted with a signed, fluted Omega crown that is well-proportioned to the case. Turning the watch over reveals a screw-down caseback highlighted by the legendary Constellation Observatory medallion. The medallion is remarkably crisp, with the observatory dome and all eight surrounding stars clearly defined, indicating that the watch has been spared from aggressive wear. A clear crystal protects the dial, offering an unobstructed and distortion-free view of the watch face. Movement Powering this timepiece is the Omega Caliber 1011, a robust and highly regarded automatic movement from the era. Visual inspection of the movement reveals Omega’s signature copper-colored plating, which remains vibrant and visually excellent. The rotor and bridges are cleanly engraved, clearly displaying the Omega branding, the 23 jewels count, and the proud adjustment to five positions and temperature, affirming its chronometer status. The visible serial number 36156774 accurately dates the production of this movement to circa 1973. The inner caseback is properly stamped with the Omega Watch Co. triangle and the reference number ST 168 0056. Strap The watch is paired with a handsome black leather strap featuring prominent contrasting white stitching. This strap choice perfectly complements the monochrome aesthetic of the steel case and silver dial, offering a comfortable and secure fit for the wrist. Condition This timepiece is presented in excellent vintage condition. The dial stands out as a primary highlight, remaining exceptionally clean and well-preserved with highly attractive, even lume patina. The stainless steel case shows normal, light signs of use but retains its original geometry and finishing contrasts beautifully. The caseback medallion is particularly sharp, further emphasizing the careful ownership this watch has enjoyed. Dimensions The case measures 34 mm in diameter, excluding the crown. Remarks This Omega Constellation reference 168.0056 is a superb representation of the brand's 1970s design ethos. Combining a flawless dial layout with a highly respected chronometer-certified movement, it offers tremendous vintage appeal. The exceptional preservation of the dial and the crispness of the caseback medallion make this a truly compelling acquisition for any serious enthusiast of mid-century Swiss watchmaking. History Introduced in 1952, the Omega Constellation was created to be the ultimate expression of the brand's precision watchmaking, with every piece leaving the factory as a certified chronometer. The line was instantly recognizable by the observatory medallion on the caseback, representing Omega's numerous precision records at the Kew-Teddington and Geneva observatories. In the 1960s, the design evolved with the introduction of the C-shape case, a revolutionary silhouette that seamlessly integrated the lugs into the case body. This architectural shift carried the Constellation into the 1970s, maintaining its status as a symbol of luxury and mechanical excellence while adopting a more modern, streamlined aesthetic that remains timeless today. / Second Vintage SKU: OME-OCC-0007