Omega - Constellation Pie-Pan "Serviced" - 14381 61 SC - Men - 1961

Presented for auction by Second Vintage The Omega Constellation stands as a towering achievement in mid-century horology, representing the absolute pinnacle of the brand's chronometer testing and elegant design language. This particular example captures the quintessential charm of the era with its iconic pie-pan dial architecture and elegant two-tone configuration. The watch carries a deeply characterful aesthetic, bearing the honest marks of time through a striking stardust patina that collectors often seek for its unique visual depth. It is a timepiece that perfectly bridges the gap between high-precision timekeeping and sophisticated mid-century style. Brand: Omega Model: Constellation Reference Number: 14381 61 SC Serial Number: 18215228 Movement: Caliber 551, 24 Jewels, Automatic Chronometer Dial: Silver pie-pan crosshair dial with vertical brushing and prominent stardust patina on the outer faceted ring Case Size: 34 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Stainless steel with gold bezel and gold caseback medallion Production Year: 1961 Condition: Good vintage condition with attractive age-consistent dial patina Dial and Hands The dial of this Constellation features the highly desirable pie-pan configuration, characterized by a raised central flat section and a downward-sloping outer faceted ring. The central area showcases a delicate vertical brushed finish and a crisp crosshair motif, remaining remarkably clean and legible. In striking contrast, the outer faceted chapter ring has developed a heavy, even stardust patina and oxidation spotting, creating a beautiful framing effect that highlights the watch's vintage journey. The dial is adorned with applied gold faceted hour markers, an applied gold Omega logo, and the signature Constellation star. The faceted gold dauphine hands exhibit minor age-related oxidation that harmonizes perfectly with the overall patinated aesthetic of the dial. Case and Crystal The 34 mm case is crafted from stainless steel, featuring elegantly contoured lugs and a smooth gold bezel that adds a touch of warmth to the profile. The case displays honest signs of wear, including superficial scratches and minor handling marks consistent with its age, yet it retains a strong overall shape with well-defined lug profiles. A domed acrylic crystal protects the dial, showing minor surface wear typical of vintage materials. The stainless steel screw-down caseback is a particular highlight, featuring the solid gold Observatory of Geneva medallion. The medallion remains in wonderful condition, with the observatory dome and all eight surrounding stars clearly visible and well-preserved. A classic decagonal signed Omega crown completes the exterior package. Movement Powering this timepiece is the legendary Omega Caliber 551, an automatic chronometer-certified movement renowned for its robust engineering and precision. The movement is beautifully finished in Omega's signature copper tone and features 24 jewels. Close inspection reveals crisp engravings, noting adjustments to five positions and temperature, cementing its status as a high-grade chronometer. The serial number 18215228 is clearly stamped on the bridge. Exhibiting remarkable accuracy and consistency, performing brilliantly for a vintage timepiece. The timegrapher results show -1-4s/day with strong amplitude. Strap The watch is fitted with a period correct original stainless steel and gold-tone bracelet featuring a classic brick-link design. The folding clasp is proudly stamped with the Omega logo, and the endlinks are clearly marked with the code 524. The bracelet shows normal stretch and surface wear marks consistent with decades of use, complementing the vintage character of the watch head. It accommodates a wrist size of up to 18 cm. Condition This Omega Constellation is presented in good vintage condition. The case and bracelet show normal, honest vintage wear with moderate handling marks, while the caseback medallion remains crisp. The dial condition is the standout feature, displaying a distinct and highly attractive stardust patina on the outer perimeter while the central section remains clean, offering a visually compelling two-tone aging effect that collectors appreciate. Dimensions The case measures 34 mm in diameter, excluding the crown. The included bracelet accommodates a maximum wrist size of 18 cm. Remarks Finding a pie-pan Constellation with such a distinct and characterful aging pattern offers a unique opportunity for the discerning collector. The contrast between the clean inner dial and the heavily patinated outer ring gives this watch a personality that cannot be replicated. Coupled with the exceptional performance of the Caliber 551 movement, this is a highly wearable and deeply charming piece of Omega history. History Introduced in 1952, the Constellation was designed to be Omega's flagship line, housing solely chronometer-certified movements to showcase the brand's dominance in precision timing competitions. The eight stars on the caseback medallion represent Omega's numerous accuracy records at the Kew-Teddington and Geneva observatories. The pie-pan dial, famously associated with the legendary designer Gerald Genta, became the defining visual characteristic of the Constellation during its golden era in the 1950s and 1960s. Today, these early Constellations are revered as some of the finest mass-produced chronometers of the mid-twentieth century, celebrated for their timeless elegance and mechanical excellence. / Second Vintage SKU: OME-OCC-0026