Omega Constellation Chronometer 168.004 (1964)

Now available at auction from Second Vintage This highly sought-after classic Constellation reference 168.004 presents an exceptionally clean silver sunburst dial and a crisp observatory medallion on its caseback. Powered by the highly regarded chronometer-certified Omega Caliber 561 automatic movement and presented on its classic signed beads of rice bracelet, this 1964 collector favourite offers a beautifully preserved example of mid-century Swiss watchmaking. Brand: Omega Model: Constellation Reference Number: 168.004 Serial Number: 21252088 Movement: Automatic Omega Caliber 561 Dial: Silver sunburst with applied indices Case Size: 36 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Stainless steel Production Year: 1964 Condition: Excellent vintage condition. Timegrapher: +9+12s/day, performing remarkably well. Dial and Hands The silver sunburst dial is in highly preserved condition, presenting an exceptionally clean surface with minimal to no visible spotting or degradation. It features applied baton indices with black inserts, an applied Omega logo, and the signature Constellation star. A date window at 3 o'clock is finished with a neat applied frame. The original dauphine hands, also featuring black inserts, show gentle, age-appropriate patina with light oxidation and minor surface wear visible under magnification. A sweep center seconds hand completes this highly attractive and clean dial layout. Case and Crystal The stainless steel case displays brushed and polished finishes in honest vintage condition, retaining good shape and definition across the lugs. Light surface scratches and minor handling marks consistent with age are present throughout the case and the smooth stainless steel bezel. The exterior caseback features a wonderfully crisp observatory medallion with well-preserved details. The distinctive decagonal crown is clearly signed with the Omega logo and exhibits good definition on its knurling. A domed acrylic crystal provides a clear, distortion-free view of the dial, showing no major scratches or crazing. Movement Inside is the copper-toned Omega Caliber 561, a 24-jewel chronometer-grade automatic movement. The bright and well-preserved finish shows no visible corrosion or significant tool marks, while the clean rotor and bridges bear crisp engravings reading "OMEGA WATCH Co SWISS", "TWENTY-FOUR 24 JEWELS", "ADJUSTED FIVE (5) POSITIONS AND TEMPERATURE", "561", and the serial number "21252088". Recording +9+12s/day on the timegrapher, the movement is exhibiting remarkable accuracy and consistency, performing brilliantly for a vintage timepiece. Strap The watch is fitted with its original signed bracelet, a classic and comfortable stainless steel beads of rice design. It is secured by a signed Omega folding clasp and accommodates a maximum wrist size of 18cm. The bracelet appears structurally sound while displaying moderate surface scratches and normal wear. Condition Excellent vintage condition. The dial is exceptionally clean and highly preserved, serving as a visual highlight of the watch. The stainless steel case and original beads of rice bracelet show honest, moderate surface scratches and handling marks appropriate for their age, while the case retains strong lug definition and a crisp observatory medallion. Supported by the recorded timegrapher result, the movement is performing very strongly. Dimensions 36 mm (excluding the crown). Remarks This Constellation offers an outstanding combination of a highly preserved silver sunburst dial, a crisp caseback medallion, and its original beads of rice bracelet. It is a highly attractive and well-documented example of a mid-century classic. History The Omega Constellation reference 168.004 was introduced in 1962 and produced until approximately 1967. This specific reference is recognized by collectors for its distinctive sunken or hidden crown that sits recessed into the case profile, offering a sleek and uninterrupted case geometry. It is powered by the Calibre 561, a 24-jewel chronometer-grade automatic movement equipped with a semi-quickset date mechanism, representing an important era of Omega's precision watchmaking. Payment and Shipping Payment must be completed within 1–3 days after purchase. Your watch will be professionally and securely packaged, then shipped with tracking and insurance for your peace of mind. We use fast express shipping, with typical delivery within 1–4 business days, depending on the destination. Please note that vintage watches may show minor signs of wear, aging, or imperfections, which are considered normal for watches of this age. We kindly ask you to review all photos carefully before bidding. We photograph each watch from multiple angles to provide the most accurate representation possible, and the photos form an important part of the description. The timegrapher assessment if provided is seen as an indication of the movement’s condition under fully wound testing conditions. As with all vintage watches, results may vary in daily use. If you have any concerns regarding functionality or defects after delivery, please contact us within 3 days of receiving the watch so we can assist you. As with all used watches, water resistance is not guaranteed. If you have any questions, feel free to contact us after the auction ends. / Second Vintage SKU: OME-ACC-0019