Omega - Constellation Chronometer - No reserve price - ST 168.017 - Men - 1968

Available now on auction by Second Vintage The Omega Constellation stands as one of the most significant pillars of mid-century Swiss watchmaking, representing the pinnacle of the brand's chronometer testing and precision engineering. This particular example features the celebrated C-shape case, a masterful design famously penned by Gérald Genta in the 1960s, which seamlessly integrates the lugs into the tonneau-style profile for a highly refined presence on the wrist. Powered by the legendary Caliber 564, this timepiece encapsulates the golden era of Omega's mechanical dominance, offering collectors a compelling blend of architectural case design, sophisticated chronometer-grade mechanics, and an authentic, unpolished vintage aesthetic. Brand: Omega Model: Constellation Reference Number: ST 168.017 Serial Number: 26442146 Movement: Automatic, Caliber 564, 24 Jewels Dial: Silver dial with applied indices, displaying visible spotting and a concentrated patina mark near the nine o'clock position Case Size: 34 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Stainless Steel Production Year: 1968 Condition: Good vintage condition with honest wear and distinct dial patina Dial and Hands The dial presents a classic silvered canvas adorned with applied, faceted baton indices featuring black inserts, providing excellent legibility and a sophisticated mid-century aesthetic. The dial furniture includes the applied Omega symbol and the signature Constellation star positioned above the six o'clock marker. A framed date aperture sits cleanly at the three o'clock position. The typography remains crisp, with the "Officially Certified Chronometer" text proudly displayed. In terms of condition, the dial exhibits clear signs of vintage aging, characterized by scattered spotting across the surface and a distinct, localized stain or moisture mark located between the center pinion and the nine o'clock index. The original dauphine hands, complete with matching black inserts, show light oxidation consistent with the overall authentic, untouched patina of the watch. Case and Crystal The stainless steel C-shape case remains a testament to Gérald Genta's enduring design language, featuring a beautiful transition between the brushed upper surfaces and the polished case flanks. The lug profile retains its characteristic sloping geometry, showing honest signs of wear, surface scratches, and minor handling marks commensurate with its age, but avoiding any signs of heavy over-polishing. The watch is fitted with a signed, fluted Omega crown that operates smoothly. Protecting the dial is a domed crystal that presents cleanly, allowing an unobstructed view of the dial's details. The screw-down caseback is a highlight of this piece, featuring the iconic Constellation observatory medallion in crisp relief, with the surrounding stars remaining sharp and well-defined, indicating respectful wear over the decades. The inner caseback correctly bears the ST 168.017 reference engraving. Movement At the heart of this Constellation beats the in-house Omega Caliber 564 automatic movement, a 24-jewel chronometer-certified engine renowned for its robust architecture and precision. The movement displays Omega's signature copper-toned plating, which remains exceptionally bright and well-preserved. Close inspection reveals fine details such as the swan-neck regulator and the clear engraving indicating adjustment to five positions and temperature. The serial number 26442146 is sharply stamped on the bridge, dating the watch to approximately 1968. Exhibiting remarkable accuracy and consistency, performing brilliantly for a vintage timepiece. The timegrapher results show a deviation of +10 to +15 seconds per day. Strap The watch is currently paired with a period correct style black leather strap, featuring contrasting white stitching and a deep red inner lining. The strap is supple, lightly worn, and secures comfortably to the wrist with a standard stainless steel pin buckle, complementing the classic tones of the dial and case. Condition This Omega Constellation is presented in good vintage condition, offering a highly authentic and honest representation of a 1960s daily wearer. The case retains strong lines and a beautifully preserved caseback medallion. The movement is visually stunning and mechanically sound. The dial, while retaining all its original text and applied furniture, shows undeniable signs of age with noticeable spotting and a specific blemish near the nine o'clock marker, appealing to collectors who value unvarnished history and true vintage character over restored perfection. Dimensions The watch measures a classic 34 mm in diameter (excluding the crown), with a lug-to-lug profile that wears with surprising presence thanks to the integrated C-shape case design. Remarks This reference ST 168.017 is a superb opportunity to acquire a Genta-designed Omega Constellation housing one of the brand's most respected automatic chronometer movements. The honest wear and distinct patina tell the story of a watch that has been worn and enjoyed, making it a charismatic addition to any serious collection focused on mid-century horology. History Introduced in 1952, the Omega Constellation was created to be the brand's flagship line of automatic chronometers, celebrating Omega's numerous precision records at observatory trials in Kew-Teddington, Neuchâtel, and Geneva. The observatory medallion on the caseback became the ultimate symbol of this dedication to accuracy. In the 1960s, the Constellation underwent a significant aesthetic evolution with the introduction of the C-shape case, designed by the legendary Gérald Genta. This new silhouette modernized the collection, moving away from the pie-pan dials and dog-leg lugs of the 1950s into a sleeker, more integrated era of watch design, firmly cementing the Constellation's status as a timeless icon of Swiss watchmaking. / Second Vintage SKU: OME-OCC-0022