Omega - Constellation - 168.019 - Men - 1968

Presented for auction by Second Vintage

This exceptional Omega Constellation represents a pinnacle of mid-century horological design, blending mechanical excellence with an unmistakable aesthetic. Housed in the iconic C-shape case famously conceived by legendary designer Gérald Genta, this reference 168.019 captures the sophisticated essence of the late 1960s. The presence of a highly desirable linen dial, paired with its original and intricate brick-link bracelet, elevates this chronometer from a standard vintage piece to a truly compelling collector's item. It stands as a testament to Omega's golden era of precision watchmaking and enduring architectural elegance.

Brand: Omega
Model: Constellation
Reference Number: 168.019
Serial Number: 26991304
Movement: Omega Caliber 751, Automatic, 24 Jewels
Dial: Silver linen texture with applied indices and day-date complication, showing minor edge patina
Case Size: 34 mm (excluding the crown)
Case Material: Stainless steel
Production Year: 1968
Condition: Excellent vintage condition with crisp case lines and a beautifully preserved dial

Dial and Hands
The dial is a masterclass in mid-century texture, featuring a spectacular silver linen finish created by fine, intersecting vertical and horizontal brushstrokes. This intricate surface plays beautifully with the light and remains remarkably well-preserved. The dial furniture includes applied, faceted baton indices featuring striking black inserts, which perfectly match the sleek black baton hands. An applied Omega logo and the signature Constellation star sit proudly on the dial, while the sans-serif "Automatic Chronometer Officially Certified" typography remains crisp and fully legible. A framed day-date aperture is positioned at three o'clock. Careful visual inspection reveals minor, honest age-related spotting along the extreme outer perimeter, most notably near the nine and eleven o'clock positions, which presents as attractive and age-consistent patina without detracting from the stunning overall aesthetic.

Case and Crystal
The 34mm stainless steel C-shape case exhibits outstanding preservation, retaining its sharp, factory-correct radial brushing on the upper surfaces that transitions seamlessly into highly polished flanks. The integrated lug profile remains robust and well-defined. A distinctive, finely fluted bezel frames the domed crystal, adding a refined textural contrast to the smooth lines of the case. The watch is fitted with an Omega-signed scalloped crown. Turning the watch over reveals a screw-down caseback featuring the deeply struck Constellation observatory medallion, with all eight stars remaining crisp and clearly visible, indicating that the watch has not been subjected to heavy polishing. The case shows only light, honest handling marks consistent with careful vintage wear.

Movement
Powering this Constellation is the beautifully copper-finished Omega Caliber 751, an automatic movement renowned for its robust architecture and chronometer-grade precision. The movement features 24 jewels and is stamped with its adjustment to five positions and temperature, a hallmark of Omega's stringent testing standards of the era. The caliber markings and the serial number 26991304 are clearly visible on the bridges, dating the watch to approximately 1968. The movement presents exceptionally clean surfaces and intact screw heads. Exhibiting remarkable accuracy and consistency, performing brilliantly for a vintage timepiece. The movement is currently running at -10 to -15 seconds per day with strong amplitude.

Strap
The watch is fitted with its original stainless steel Omega brick-link bracelet, a highly sought-after and period-correct pairing that perfectly complements the C-shape case. The links remain in excellent condition, offering a fluid and comfortable drape on the wrist. The brushed folding clasp features a prominent, raised Omega logo. The interior of the clasp is fully stamped with the Omega nomenclature, stainless steel designation, and the reference codes 1040 and No. 12, confirming its authenticity and original matching configuration.

Condition
This timepiece is presented in excellent vintage condition. The case retains strong geometry and distinct finishes, while the fluted bezel and observatory medallion remain sharp and pronounced. The intricate linen dial is highly attractive, displaying only minor, localized edge spotting that validates its authentic aging process. The hands and applied indices are excellently preserved. The original brick-link bracelet is secure and well-maintained, completing a highly original and well-cared-for package.

Dimensions
Case Size: 34 mm (excluding the crown)

Remarks
Finding a Genta-designed C-shape Constellation with a striking linen dial and its original brick-link bracelet is an increasingly rare occurrence in today's vintage market. This specific configuration offers an incredibly cohesive mid-century aesthetic, combining rugged stainless steel construction with elegant, textured detailing. It is a highly wearable and mechanically significant timepiece that will immediately elevate any serious vintage collection.

History
Introduced in 1952, the Omega Constellation was designed to be the brand's flagship line of automatic chronometers, representing the absolute pinnacle of their precision manufacturing. The observatory medallion on the caseback famously honors Omega's numerous precision records at the Kew-Teddington and Geneva observatory trials. In the late 1960s, the collection underwent a radical and highly successful redesign by Gérald Genta, resulting in the iconic C-shape case. This design brilliantly integrated the lugs into the case body, creating a seamless, modern silhouette that has become one of the most celebrated and recognizable shapes in Omega's illustrious history.

Payment and Shipping
Payment must be completed within 1–3 days after purchase.
Your watch will be professionally and very securely packaged, and shipped with tracking and insurance for your peace of mind. We ship via fast express service, with typical delivery in 1–4 business days (destination dependent).
Note that with vintage watches, minor signs of wear, aging, or imperfections may be present and are considered normal for watches of this age.
Please review all photos carefully before bidding. We strive to photograph each watch from multiple angles for the most accurate representation. The photos form an important part of the description.
If there are any concerns of functionality or defects after delivery, make sure to contact us within 3 days of receiving the watch so we can assist you.
As with all vintage watches, water resistance is not guaranteed.
If you have any questions, feel free to contact us after the auction ends.

/ Second Vintage

SKU: OME-OCC-0036