Omega - Constellation - 167.005 - Men - 1963

Presented for auction by Second Vintage This exceptional timepiece represents a highly sought-after configuration of Omega's flagship mid-century chronometer. Housed in the celebrated reference 167.005 case, this Constellation features the iconic architectural lugs that have captivated collectors for decades. Benefiting from a freshly serviced chronometer-grade movement and proudly displaying an honest, character-rich patination across its classic dial, this watch perfectly balances rigorous mechanical precision with striking vintage aesthetics. Brand: Omega Model: Constellation 'Serviced' Reference Number: 167.005 Serial Number: 20291135 Movement: Omega Caliber 551, 24 Jewels, Automatic Chronometer Dial: Silver sunburst pie-pan dial with applied onyx-inlaid indices, exhibiting an even stardust patina and oxidized hands Case Size: 33 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Stainless Steel Production Year: 1963 Condition: Good vintage condition with honest wear and highly attractive even dial patination. Recently serviced. Dial and Hands The dial is a classic silver sunburst execution featuring the highly desirable pie-pan faceted outer edge. It is adorned with applied faceted baton hour markers featuring distinct black onyx inserts, perfectly matching the original dauphine hands. The typography is crisp, with the applied Omega logo, Constellation lettering, and the signature applied star situated above the six o'clock position. Condition-wise, the dial has aged to display a fine, even stardust spotting across its entire surface, lending the watch a deeply authentic and attractive vintage character. The dauphine hands show noticeable, age-consistent oxidation and surface wear, particularly visible on the minute hand, which further anchors the authentic mid-century identity of the watch. Case and Crystal The 33mm stainless steel case is defined by its legendary angular dog-leg lugs, a hallmark of the reference 167.005. The case retains strong structural integrity with distinct facets and well-defined transitions between the brushed and polished surfaces, exhibiting normal, honest signs of wear and handling marks consistent with its age. The smooth polished bezel elegantly frames a classic domed acrylic crystal that presents clearly and magnifies the dial beautifully. The screw-down caseback features the iconic Constellation observatory medallion. The medallion shows some surface wear, but the observatory brickwork and all eight stars remain distinctly visible. The case is completed by a correctly proportioned, signed Omega crown. Movement Powering this Constellation is the esteemed Omega Caliber 551, an automatic chronometer-certified movement renowned for its robust architecture and precision. The movement is beautifully finished in Omega's signature copper plating, which remains vibrant and well-preserved. Close inspection reveals the caliber markings, the 24-jewel designation, and the serial number 20291135, accurately dating the watch to 1963. The bridge proudly denotes adjustment to five positions and temperature. Benefiting from a recent service, the mechanical health is outstanding. Exhibiting remarkable accuracy and consistency, performing brilliantly for a vintage timepiece, the movement yields timegrapher results of +5 to +7 seconds per day with strong amplitude. Strap The watch is fitted with a handsome black leather strap featuring subtle contrasting stitching and a classic stainless steel pin buckle. The strap complements the elegant, formal nature of the pie-pan dial while remaining comfortable for daily wear. Condition This Constellation is presented in good vintage condition, offering a superb balance of authentic aging and mechanical excellence. The dial's even stardust spotting and the oxidation on the hands provide a genuine, unpolished glimpse into the watch's history. The dog-leg case remains sharp and well-defined, showing only expected surface wear. With its freshly serviced movement running exceptionally well, this watch is mechanically sound and visually captivating. Dimensions Case Size: 33 mm (excluding the crown) Remarks The reference 167.005 Constellation is widely considered a masterpiece of mid-century watch design. The combination of the faceted pie-pan dial, the architectural dog-leg lugs, and the chronometer-certified Caliber 551 creates a universally respected package. This specific example, with its beautifully aged stardust dial and freshly serviced mechanicals, is a highly compelling acquisition for the discerning vintage enthusiast. History Introduced in 1952, the Omega Constellation was created to be the ultimate expression of the brand's precision watchmaking, serving as their flagship line of automatic chronometers. The distinctive dog-leg case design of the 1960s, widely attributed to the genius of Gerald Genta, elevated the Constellation from a mere precision instrument to an enduring icon of horological design. The eight stars on the caseback medallion symbolize Omega's numerous precision records at the Kew-Teddington and Geneva observatories, a legacy of accuracy that the Caliber 500 series movements carried forward with distinction. / Second Vintage SKU: OME-OCX-0004