Omega - Constellation 'Serviced' - 168.019 - Men - 1969

Presented for auction by Second Vintage

The Omega Constellation stands as a towering achievement in mid-century horology, representing the absolute pinnacle of the brand's precision watchmaking. Introduced in the late 1960s, the reference 168.019 features the iconic C-shape case originally penned by legendary designer Gérald Genta. This distinctive silhouette perfectly captures the transition from traditional round dress watches to the more integrated, robust designs of the 1970s. Housing a sophisticated chronometer-certified movement with a highly practical day and date complication, this timepiece offers a masterclass in elegant utility. Preserved in remarkable condition with an exceptionally clean vertically brushed dial, this Constellation remains a definitive cornerstone for any serious collector of vintage Omega.

Brand: Omega
Model: Constellation
Reference Number: 168.019
Serial Number: 28767604
Movement: Automatic Caliber 751
Dial: Vertically brushed silver dial, exceptionally clean with no visible spotting or damage
Case Size: 35 mm (excluding the crown)
Case Material: Stainless Steel
Production Year: 1969
Condition: Excellent vintage condition with outstanding dial preservation. Movement has been recently serviced and adjusted, and performs strongly.

Dial and Hands
The vertically brushed silver dial is a study in refined mid-century design and remains in outstanding, exceptionally clean condition. Under high magnification, the dial surface shows no visible spotting, moisture marks, or discoloration, presenting a brilliantly crisp aesthetic. It features applied faceted baton indices, each detailed with striking black inserts that enhance legibility and visual depth. The matching stick hands also feature black central channels, perfectly harmonizing with the hour markers. An applied Omega logo and the signature Constellation star sit proudly on the dial, while the framed day and date aperture at three o'clock adds practical symmetry. The typography, including the serif Constellation script and the sans-serif chronometer certification text, remains perfectly intact with no print loss. Small, evenly aged luminous plots are positioned at the outer edge of the indices, completing this remarkably well-preserved display.

Case and Crystal
The stainless steel C-shape case measures 35 mm and retains strong, well-defined architecture. The transition between the vertically brushed upper surfaces and the polished case flanks remains distinct, showcasing the intended factory geometry. Honest, light signs of wear consistent with careful vintage use are present, but the case avoids any heavy polishing that would compromise its sharp lug profile. The watch is fitted with a domed acrylic crystal that provides excellent clarity and vintage warmth to the dial. The correct fluted crown, signed with the Omega logo, operates smoothly. Turning the watch over reveals the screw-down caseback featuring the iconic Constellation observatory medallion. The medallion retains its structural integrity, though it exhibits some localized surface wear and pitting near the stars on the right side, a common and honest characteristic of vintage Constellations.

Movement
Powering this timepiece is the esteemed Omega Caliber 751, a 24-jewel automatic chronometer movement adjusted to five positions and temperature. The movement is beautifully finished in Omega's signature copper plating, which remains vibrant and clean. Close inspection of the movement reveals the crisp engravings of the caliber number 751 and the serial number 28767604 prominently displayed on the bridge. The rotor and plates show no signs of heavy tool marks or moisture intrusion. Exhibiting remarkable accuracy and consistency, performing brilliantly for a vintage timepiece. The timegrapher results indicate a strong performance of -3 to -6 seconds per day with strong amplitude. Movement has been recently serviced and adjusted, and performs strongly.

Strap
The watch is paired with a high-quality black leather strap featuring contrasting white stitch details at the lugs and tip. The strap provides a comfortable fit and a versatile, sporting elegance that complements the monochromatic dial and steel case perfectly. It is secured with a standard stainless steel pin buckle.

Condition
This Constellation is presented in excellent vintage condition. The dial is the undeniable highlight, remaining flawlessly clean and free from the spotting or moisture damage often found in watches of this era. The case retains its attractive C-shape geometry with honest, superficial wear marks that do not detract from its striking presence on the wrist. The caseback medallion shows expected localized wear, but the overall presentation is highly attractive. The chronometer-certified movement is exceptionally clean and running with impressive precision.

Dimensions
The stainless steel case measures 35 mm in diameter, excluding the signed crown. The integrated C-shape lug design provides a substantial and incredibly comfortable presence on the wrist, wearing slightly larger than its dimensions might suggest.

Remarks
Finding a reference 168.019 with a dial as pristine as this example is becoming increasingly difficult. The combination of the Gérald Genta-designed C-shape case, the highly regarded Caliber 751, and the flawless vertically brushed silver dial makes this a premium acquisition. It perfectly balances the dressy heritage of the Constellation line with the robust daily wearability of late-1960s Omega engineering.

History
The Omega Constellation was launched in 1952 to serve as the brand's flagship line of highly precise, chronometer-certified luxury watches. The collection was defined by its uncompromising commitment to accuracy, symbolized by the observatory medallion on the caseback, representing Omega's numerous precision records at the Kew-Teddington and Geneva observatories. In the 1960s, Omega enlisted the talents of a young Gérald Genta to refresh the line, resulting in the iconic C-shape case. This design evolution modernized the Constellation, integrating the lugs more smoothly into the case body and setting a design language that would influence the entire watch industry for decades.

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-0006