Omega - Constellation - 168.017 SP - Bărbați - 1970-1979

Presented for auction by Second Vintage

The Omega Constellation stands as a towering pillar of mid-century horological achievement, representing the absolute pinnacle of the brand’s chronometer testing and elegant design. This particular reference 168.017 SP showcases the iconic "C-shape" case geometry penned by the legendary Gerald Genta, beautifully merging integrated design language with sophisticated dress watch proportions. Powered by the highly regarded Caliber 564 and preserved in exceptional condition, this timepiece offers collectors a superb opportunity to acquire a quintessential vintage Omega that remains as stylish and mechanically impressive today as it was upon its release.

Brand: Omega
Model: Constellation
Reference Number: 168.017 SP
Serial Number: 29359758
Movement: Automatic Caliber 564
Dial: Silver sunburst with applied black-insert indices, exceptionally clean and flawlessly preserved
Case Size: 35 mm
Case Material: Stainless Steel
Production Year: Circa 1970
Condition: Excellent vintage condition with outstanding dial preservation and strong case lines. Movement have been serviced and performs strongly.

Dial and Hands
The dial of this Constellation is a masterclass in mid-century restraint and elegance, presenting in stunning, remarkably clean condition. The surface features a delicate silver sunburst finish that catches the light beautifully, entirely free from spotting, moisture stains, or disruptive patina. The typography is incredibly crisp, from the applied Omega logo and distinctive script "Constellation" to the "Officially Certified" chronometer text. The applied faceted baton hour markers are elevated by striking black onyx inserts, which are perfectly matched by the original baton hands, providing excellent legibility and visual contrast. A framed date aperture sits cleanly at the three o'clock position, featuring a stepped metallic border. The applied Constellation star at the lower half of the dial remains bright and sharp, completing a truly exceptional and highly attractive vintage display.

Case and Crystal
The 35 mm stainless steel case features the celebrated C-shape profile, a hallmark of Gerald Genta's visionary design work for Omega. The case remains in excellent vintage condition, proudly displaying its factory-intended finishes. The upper flanks exhibit distinct, strong vertical brushing that transitions sharply into the polished sides and bevels, showing only honest, light handling marks consistent with careful wear over the decades. The integrated lug design flows seamlessly into the bracelet, maintaining a sharp and cohesive silhouette. The signed crown features the correct scalloped edge and raised Omega logo. Turning the watch over reveals the screw-down caseback, prominently displaying the iconic Geneva Observatory medallion. The medallion is sharply defined, with all eight stars clearly visible, surrounded by light surface scratches that do not detract from the engraving's integrity. The watch is fitted with an acrylic crystal that sits cleanly above the bezel, providing a clear and undistorted view of the pristine dial beneath.

Movement
At the heart of this timepiece beats the renowned Omega Caliber 564, a 24-jewel automatic movement celebrated for its robust architecture and chronometer-grade precision. The movement presents beautifully, featuring Omega’s signature copper-toned plating which remains bright and richly colored. Close inspection reveals the swan-neck regulator, a hallmark of high-precision adjustment, alongside clear engravings denoting its adjustment to five positions and temperature. The serial number 29359758 is crisply stamped on the bridge, perfectly aligning with the production era of this reference. The movement is exceptionally clean, with all wheels, screws, and ruby jewels presenting in superb condition. Exhibiting remarkable accuracy and consistency, performing brilliantly for a vintage timepiece. The timegrapher results indicate a performance of -8 to -12 seconds per day with strong amplitude. Movement have been serviced and performs strongly.

Strap
The watch is fitted with its original stainless steel brick-link bracelet, a style deeply associated with the Constellation line and highly sought after by collectors. The links feature a brushed finish that complements the case perfectly, showing normal, age-appropriate stretch and light surface wear while remaining structurally sound and very comfortable on the wrist. The bracelet is secured by a fold-over clasp adorned with a sharply applied Omega logo, accommodating a wrist size of up to 18 cm.

Condition
This Constellation is presented in excellent vintage condition, standing out primarily due to its flawlessly preserved dial, which is a rarity for watches of this age. The case retains its fundamental geometry and original alternating brushed and polished finishes, exhibiting only light, honest wear without any deep gouges or signs of heavy over-polishing. The observatory medallion on the caseback remains crisp and highly detailed. The movement is visually pristine and mechanically strong, making this a superior example of a vintage classic.

Dimensions
Case Size: 35 mm
Wrist Size: 18 cm

Remarks
Finding a vintage Omega Constellation with a dial as pristine as this example is becoming increasingly difficult in today's market. The combination of the Genta-designed C-shape case, the highly respected Caliber 564, and the original brick-link bracelet makes this a complete and highly desirable package. It is a sophisticated, versatile timepiece that represents the golden era of Omega's chronometer production, ready to be worn and admired by the discerning collector.

History
Introduced in 1952, the Omega Constellation was born to be the brand's flagship line of highly precise, chronometer-certified wristwatches. Named after the constellation of stars and symbolized by the Geneva Observatory medallion on its caseback, the collection celebrated Omega's numerous precision records achieved at observatory trials in the mid-20th century. In the 1960s, the Constellation underwent a significant design evolution under the guidance of young designer Gerald Genta, resulting in the "C-shape" case. This design moved away from the ornate pie-pan dials and faceted lugs of the 1950s, introducing a more integrated, sleek, and modern aesthetic that perfectly captured the spirit of the late 60s and early 70s, cementing the Constellation's legacy as an icon of horological design.

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-OAC-0016