Omega Constellation Chronometer 168.005 (1962)

Offered in this auction by Second Vintage This is a remarkable example of the Omega Constellation, the flagship of Omega's collection during the golden age of mechanical watchmaking. This specific reference, the 168.005, is highly coveted by collectors for its distinctive "Dog-leg" lugs, a design trait attributed to the legendary Gerald Genta. Combining a chronometer-grade movement with an iconic case design, this timepiece represents the perfect blend of mid-century elegance and precision engineering. Brand: Omega Model: Constellation Reference Number: 168.005 Serial Number: 19438639 Movement: Automatic Caliber 561 Chronometer Dial: Silver sunburst with applied indices and date aperture Case Size: 36 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Stainless Steel Production Year: 1962 Condition: Good vintage condition. The watch presents an honest and attractive vintage aesthetic with visible aging to the hands and dial that adds character. The movement is performing exceptionally well, with timegrapher results showing +8 to +11 seconds per day with strong amplitude, which indicates a healthy movement. Dial and Hands The watch features a sophisticated silver sunburst dial that has developed a warm, even tone over the decades. It is adorned with hand-riveted applied baton indices and the applied Omega logo and star. The dial surface shows light patina and faint spotting consistent with its age. The original Dauphine hands show visible oxidation and aging, particularly on the central ridges and lume plots, which validates the vintage nature of the piece. A framed date window is positioned at 3 o'clock. Case and Crystal The stainless steel case is defined by the iconic "Dog-leg" lugs, which remain distinct and give the watch its architectural presence. The case shows normal signs of wear with surface scratches appropriate for a watch from 1962, but the geometry remains attractive. The crown is the correct decagonal (10-sided) signed Omega crown, a signature feature of this reference. The acrylic crystal is clear and in good condition. The caseback features the famous Geneva Observatory medallion, which shows some smoothing from wear but remains visible. Movement Powering this timepiece is the legendary Omega Caliber 561, a copper-colored automatic movement with 24 jewels. This movement is a COSC-certified chronometer, adjusted to five positions and temperature, representing the pinnacle of Omega's mass-produced mechanical movements of the era. The movement is clean and is currently running within vintage tolerances, offering reliable vintage performance. Strap The watch is fitted with a high-quality black leather strap featuring white contrast stitching, which complements the steel case and silver dial perfectly. The strap is in excellent, ready-to-wear condition and is secured by a steel pin buckle. Condition This timepiece is in good vintage condition. It wears its history openly with visible aging on the hands and light patina on the dial, creating a charismatic look that many collectors seek. The case retains its structural integrity and iconic shape. Dimensions With a case diameter of 36 mm excluding the crown, the watch offers a classic and versatile fit suitable for a variety of wrist sizes. The lug design ensures it sits comfortably and prominently on the wrist. Remarks The Reference 168.005 is arguably one of the most important time-only watches Omega produced in the 1960s. The combination of the Genta-designed case and the robust 500-series movement makes it a cornerstone piece for any serious vintage collection. History The Omega Constellation line was introduced in 1952 as the brand's top-tier collection, designated for chronometer-certified watches. The observatory emblem on the caseback pays homage to Omega's record-breaking precision trials at the Kew-Teddington Observatory. Throughout the 1950s and 60s, the Constellation was the symbol of Swiss luxury and accuracy, setting the standard for automatic chronometers. / Second Vintage SKU: OME1190ZJZ000