Omega - Constellation - No reserve price - 168.044 - Men - 1970-1979

Presented for auction by Second Vintage A striking example of 1970s Omega design, this Constellation reference 168.044 showcases the brand's shift towards bold, geometric aesthetics. Featuring a robust square-cushion case and a distinctive matching bracelet, this chronometer-certified timepiece embodies the sophisticated yet avant-garde spirit of its era, combining striking visual presence with renowned mechanical precision. Brand: Omega Model: Constellation Reference Number: 168.044 Serial Number: 32065094 Movement: Automatic, Caliber 1001 Dial: Silver vertically brushed dial with applied indices, showing light honest wear and minor spotting Case Size: 33 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Stainless Steel Production Year: 1970s Condition: Good vintage condition with honest wear Dial and Hands The silver dial features a distinct vertical brushing technique that plays beautifully with the light. Applied steel baton indices with black inlays provide strong contrast, complemented by matching black-inlaid hour and minute hands. A framed date window sits at the three o'clock position. The dial text, including the applied Omega logo and the signature Constellation star, remains crisp and legible. Close visual inspection reveals light, age-consistent surface spotting and minor wear near the edges, presenting an honest vintage aesthetic without detracting from the overall visual appeal. The hands show matching patina, consistent with the age of the timepiece. Case and Crystal The 33mm stainless steel case features a distinctive cushion-square profile with a prominent vertical brushed finish on the upper surfaces and polished flanks. The case exhibits honest signs of wear, including surface scratches and handling marks typical of a watch from this era, yet retains its bold architectural lines. The caseback is secured by four screws and proudly displays the iconic Constellation observatory medallion, which remains well-defined with its surrounding stars clearly visible. The watch is fitted with a flat mineral crystal, presenting clearly and shielding the dial effectively while showing only faint signs of prior use. The original Omega-signed crown is present and fits neatly against the case. Movement Powering this Constellation is the Omega Caliber 1001, a chronometer-certified automatic movement. The copper-toned movement plates and rotor display Omega's traditional finishing, with clear engravings noting the twenty jewels and adjustments to five positions and temperature. The caliber 1001 represents a significant era of Omega's in-house mechanical development. Performing well within expected vintage tolerances; running strong and steady at +26 to +28 seconds per day. Strap The watch is fitted with a period-correct stainless steel bracelet featuring a brushed finish and a brick-link design that perfectly complements the geometric case shape. The bracelet shows moderate stretch and surface wear consistent with the case, comfortably accommodating a wrist size of up to 19cm. Condition This Omega Constellation is presented in good vintage condition. The case and bracelet show normal wear, scratches, and marks commensurate with regular use over the decades. The dial exhibits light aging and minor spotting, retaining its original charm. The movement is operational and performing steadily. Dimensions Case Size: 33 mm (excluding the crown) Wrist Size: Accommodates up to 19 cm Remarks This reference 168.044 is a quintessential representation of 1970s luxury watchmaking, offering a bold departure from traditional round cases. Its chronometer-certified movement and distinctive styling make it a compelling choice for collectors of vintage Omega who appreciate the unique design language of the era. History The Omega Constellation line was introduced in 1952 as the brand's flagship collection of chronometer-certified watches. By the late 1960s and early 1970s, Omega began experimenting with new, avant-garde case shapes to reflect the rapidly changing tastes of the era. The reference 168.044 exemplifies this transition, blending the proven precision of Omega's chronometer movements with a striking, architectural case design that remains highly distinctive today. / Second Vintage SKU: OME-OCC-0017