Omega - Constellation Chronometer - 168.0056 - Men - 1973

Presented for auction by Second Vintage

The Omega Constellation stands as a towering pillar of mid-century horological achievement, representing the absolute pinnacle of Omega's chronometer testing and elegant design. This particular example showcases the iconic C-shape case profile, a revolutionary design language introduced in the late 1960s that seamlessly integrated the lugs into the tonneau-style body. Coupled with a highly refined chronometer-certified movement and a stunning vertically brushed dial, this timepiece embodies the sophisticated aesthetic and mechanical superiority that made the Constellation the flagship of the brand.

Brand: Omega
Model: Constellation
Reference Number: 168.0056
Serial Number: 36140544
Movement: Omega Caliber 1011, 23 Jewels, Automatic Chronometer
Dial: Vertically brushed silver dial with applied black-insert indices, showing light age-consistent spotting and honest patina
Case Size: 35 mm (excluding the crown)
Case Material: Stainless Steel
Production Year: 1973
Condition: Excellent vintage condition with a sharp case profile and well-preserved observatory medallion. Movement has been serviced on 6/12/2026 and performs very strongly.

Dial and Hands
The dial presents a striking vertically brushed silver surface that plays beautifully with the light, offering a sophisticated and dynamic texture. It features applied faceted steel hour markers with distinct black inserts, complemented by an applied Omega logo, Constellation script, and the signature applied star at the six o'clock position. The date aperture at three o'clock is framed in stepped steel. A careful visual inspection reveals honest, age-consistent characteristics, including light spotting and minor surface debris scattered across the dial, particularly visible under macro magnification. The outer minute track is crisp and fully intact. The original steel baton hands feature matching black inserts and show moderate surface oxidation and aging consistent with the era. Small luminescent plots reside at the outer edge of the hour markers, displaying a creamy aged tone with some natural degradation present.

Case and Crystal
The 35 mm stainless steel C-shape case is a masterclass in late-century design, characterized by its integrated lug profile and robust tonneau silhouette. The case exhibits excellent structural integrity, maintaining the crucial visual contrast between the vertically brushed upper surfaces and the smoothly polished case flanks. Honest signs of wear, including superficial scratches and handling marks, are present but do not detract from the strong lines of the watch. The fluted crown provides excellent grip for setting the time. Turning the watch over reveals a screw-down caseback adorned with the legendary Geneva Observatory medallion, featuring eight crisp stars representing Omega's precision records. The medallion remains sharply defined, indicating careful wear over the decades. The inner caseback correctly bears the Omega hallmarks and the reference number ST 168 0056. A clear crystal protects the dial and sits cleanly above the polished bezel.

Movement
Powering this Constellation is the esteemed in-house Omega Caliber 1011, a 23-jewel automatic movement officially certified as a chronometer. The movement is beautifully finished in Omega's signature copper plating and is stamped with the serial number 36140544, dating production to approximately 1973. The rotor and bridges are clean, displaying the factory text denoting adjustment to five positions and temperature, a hallmark of its high-grade chronometer status. Exhibiting remarkable accuracy and consistency, performing brilliantly for a vintage timepiece. Timegrapher results show +1 to +3 seconds per day with strong amplitude. Movement has been serviced on 6/12/2026 and performs very strongly.

Strap
The watch is fitted with a black leather strap featuring prominent white contrast stitching that perfectly complements the monochrome aesthetic of the dial. The strap is secured with a stainless steel pin buckle featuring an applied vintage Omega logo, completing the period-authentic presentation.

Condition
This Omega Constellation is presented in excellent vintage condition. The case retains its essential geometry and factory-intended finishes, showing only normal, age-appropriate wear. The dial is highly attractive, with its vertical brushing intact, while displaying honest, light spotting and patina that confirm its vintage heritage. The caseback medallion is exceptionally well-preserved. The movement is remarkably clean and running with outstanding precision.

Dimensions
Case Size: 35 mm (excluding the crown)

Remarks
The C-shape Constellation remains one of the most celebrated and wearable vintage Omega designs available to collectors today. Its combination of an integrated case aesthetic, a high-frequency chronometer movement, and an incredibly legible dial makes it a versatile companion for both formal and casual settings. This example, with its crisp observatory medallion and superb mechanical health, represents a tremendous opportunity to acquire a legendary reference.

History
Introduced in 1952, the Constellation was born out of Omega's desire to create a series-production watch that met the most rigorous chronometer standards in the world. The famous observatory medallion on the caseback pays homage to the brand's sweeping victories at the Kew-Teddington and Geneva observatory chronometry trials in the mid-20th century. By the late 1960s, the Constellation line evolved to include the C-shape case, bringing a modern, architectural feel to the collection while maintaining the uncompromising mechanical excellence that defined the Constellation nameplate.

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-0058