Omega - Constellation 'Serviced' - 168.0056 - Men - 1973

Now available at auction from Second Vintage

The Omega Constellation has long stood as a beacon of Swiss precision and architectural watch design, and this particular example beautifully captures the essence of 1970s horology. Housed in the iconic C-shape case originally conceived by legendary designer Gérald Genta, this timepiece represents a perfect marriage of robust stainless steel construction and refined chronometer-grade performance. With its striking vertically brushed dial and exceptional state of preservation, this Constellation offers collectors a highly wearable and historically significant piece of Omega's golden era.

Brand: Omega
Model: Constellation Chronometer
Reference Number: 168.0056
Serial Number: 36141115
Movement: Automatic, 23 Jewels
Dial: Silver vertically brushed dial with applied black-inlaid indices, exceptionally clean condition
Case Size: 35 mm (excluding the crown)
Case Material: Stainless Steel
Production Year: 1973
Condition: Excellent vintage condition with a beautifully preserved dial and sharp case lines. Movement has been recently serviced and adjusted, and performs strongly.

Dial and Hands
The dial of this Constellation is a masterclass in understated elegance, featuring a sophisticated silver surface with a pronounced vertical brushed hairline texture. The dial condition is exceptionally clean, showing no visible spotting, moisture stains, scratches, or print loss, making it a standout example for discerning collectors. It is adorned with applied stainless steel baton indices, each featuring a distinct black onyx-style inlay that provides excellent contrast. At the outer edge of each marker rests a perfectly preserved, rounded lume pip, all of which have aged to a highly attractive, uniform creamy patina. The applied Omega symbol, brand text, and signature Constellation star remain crisp and elevated, while the printed "Chronometer Officially Certified" text is flawless. A cleanly framed date aperture sits squarely at the three o'clock position. The original baton hands, complete with matching black central stripes and luminous inserts, perfectly echo the design language of the indices and remain in outstanding condition.

Case and Crystal
The 35 millimeter stainless steel C-shape case is a defining feature of this era, characterized by its integrated lug profile and smooth, sweeping lines. The case remains in excellent vintage condition, displaying honest, light signs of careful wear while retaining its strong factory geometry. The upper surfaces feature a distinct, coarse brushed finish that contrasts beautifully with the highly polished case flanks and bezel ring. The original signed, fluted Omega crown is present and well-defined. Turning the watch over reveals a beautifully preserved solid caseback, proudly displaying the deeply embossed Geneva Observatory medallion and its eight surrounding stars, symbolizing Omega's historical chronometry records. The inner caseback correctly bears the 168.0056 reference stamping. A domed crystal protects the dial, offering clear and distortion-free viewing of the brilliant silver surface beneath.

Movement
Powering this timepiece is a beautiful copper-toned Omega automatic chronometer movement, visually stunning and historically robust. A close inspection of the movement reveals the pristine finishing of the plates and rotor, alongside the clear engravings noting the 23 jewels and the serial number 36141115, which accurately dates the watch to the early 1970s. Exhibiting remarkable accuracy and consistency, performing brilliantly for a vintage timepiece. The timegrapher result reads +10 to +12 seconds per day. Movement has been recently serviced and adjusted, and performs strongly.

Strap
The watch is currently fitted with a contemporary black textured leather strap, distinguished by heavy white contrast stitching. This modern pairing complements the monochrome silver and black aesthetic of the dial and hands, providing a secure and comfortable fit while enhancing the sporty yet elegant nature of the C-shape case.

Condition
This timepiece is presented in excellent vintage condition. The dial is the undeniable star, remaining remarkably pristine and free from the degradation often found in watches of this vintage. The stainless steel case shows normal, light handling marks consistent with its age, but retains sharp transitions and beautifully distinct brushing on the top surfaces. The observatory medallion on the caseback remains crisp, and the mechanical health is outstanding, making this a collector-grade example ready for regular enjoyment.

Dimensions
The stainless steel case measures a classic 35 millimeters in diameter, excluding the signed crown. The tonneau-inspired C-shape design ensures the watch wears with substantial presence on the wrist, offering a comfortable and highly versatile profile suitable for everyday wear.

Remarks
Finding a vintage Omega Constellation with a dial as pristine as this example is becoming increasingly difficult. The combination of the Genta-derived case design, the textured silver dial, and the chronometer-certified movement creates a highly desirable package. This watch represents an excellent opportunity to acquire a legendary reference that bridges the gap between mid-century elegance and robust 1970s design.

History
Introduced in 1952, the Constellation was Omega's flagship line, designed to showcase the brand's absolute mastery of precision timekeeping. Every Constellation was certified as a chronometer, a testament to its superior mechanical regulation. By the late 1960s, the line evolved to include the celebrated C-shape cases, a design language that moved away from the traditional pie-pan dials and faceted lugs into a more modern, streamlined aesthetic. These models remain highly coveted today for their architectural beauty, historical importance, and enduring reliability.

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-0011