Omega - Constellation - 168.004 - Men - 1966

Presented for auction by Second Vintage

The Omega Constellation stands as a pinnacle of mid-century horological achievement, representing the brand's dedication to precision chronometry and elegant design. Introduced in the 1950s, the Constellation line quickly became Omega's flagship dress watch, renowned for its distinctive dials and iconic observatory caseback medallions. This particular reference 168.004, celebrated for its sleek hidden-crown profile, embodies the golden era of Swiss watchmaking. It offers collectors a refined and historically significant timepiece that remains as captivating today as it was upon its original release.

Brand: Omega
Model: Constellation
Reference Number: 168.004
Serial Number: 24480157
Movement: Automatic Caliber 561
Dial: Silver sunburst with applied indices, exhibiting an even stardust patina
Case Size: 36 mm (excluding the crown)
Case Material: Stainless Steel
Production Year: 1966
Condition: Excellent vintage condition with attractive age-consistent patina

Dial and Hands
The dial features a classic silver sunburst finish that has gracefully aged to display a fine, even stardust patina across its surface. This delicate stippling adds tremendous vintage character without compromising the legibility or fundamental beauty of the watch. The typography, including the crisp serif Constellation script, remains sharp and fully intact. The dial is adorned with applied faceted baton indices featuring black onyx inserts, perfectly matching the original dauphine hands which also carry black central stripes. An applied Omega logo and the signature Constellation star anchor the upper and lower halves of the dial, while a silver-framed date aperture sits cleanly at the three o'clock position.

Case and Crystal
The 36mm stainless steel case showcases the distinctive reference 168.004 hidden-crown architecture, presenting a remarkably clean and uninterrupted profile. The lugs retain strong lines and factory proportions, exhibiting honest signs of wear consistent with careful vintage use. The polished bezel frames the dial beautifully, transitioning smoothly to the brushed and polished case flanks. The screw-down caseback is a highlight, featuring a deeply embossed and exceptionally crisp Geneva Observatory medallion surrounded by eight distinct stars, symbolizing Omega's chronometry records. The watch is fitted with a domed acrylic crystal that proudly bears the tiny etched Omega logo at its center, further confirming its authenticity. The original scalloped Omega-signed crown sits neatly tucked into the case side.

Movement
Inside beats the revered Omega Caliber 561, a 24-jewel automatic movement chronometer-certified and adjusted to five positions and temperature. The movement displays Omega's signature copper-toned plating, which remains vibrant and remarkably well-preserved. Close inspection reveals crisp caliber markings and the serial number 24480157, securely dating the watch to the mid-1960s. The rotor swings freely, and the mechanical components show excellent visual health. Exhibiting remarkable accuracy and consistency, performing brilliantly for a vintage timepiece. The timegrapher results indicate a performance of -15 to -20 seconds per day.

Strap
The watch is paired with a period correct black leather strap featuring contrasting white stitching. The strap is supple and complements the monochromatic elegance of the stainless steel case and silver dial, securing comfortably to the wrist with a standard steel pin buckle.

Condition
Excellent vintage condition. The timepiece has been thoughtfully preserved, showcasing an honest and highly attractive aging process. The stardust patina on the dial is visually coherent and adds to the collector appeal, while the case retains its structural integrity and sharp observatory medallion. The movement is exceptionally clean and running with robust precision.

Dimensions
Case Size: 36 mm (excluding the crown).

Remarks
This Constellation 168.004 is a superb example of Omega's mid-century design philosophy, blending the technical prowess of a certified chronometer with the architectural elegance of a hidden-crown case. The presence of the etched Omega crystal and the beautifully aged dial make it a compelling acquisition for serious enthusiasts who appreciate authentic, character-rich vintage timepieces.

History
The Omega Constellation was launched in 1952 to honor the brand's numerous precision records at the Kew-Teddington and Geneva observatories. The eight stars on the caseback medallion represent Omega's greatest chronometric achievements of the era. The reference 168.004, introduced in the 1960s, brought a modernized, streamlined aesthetic to the collection by recessing the crown into the case, creating a perfectly symmetrical silhouette that has become highly sought after by vintage watch aficionados.

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-0021