Omega - Constellation - ST 168.0056 - Män - 1973

Available now on auction by Second Vintage

The Omega Constellation stands as a towering pillar in the pantheon of mid-century horology, representing the absolute pinnacle of the brand's chronometer testing and mass-production capabilities. Born in the 1950s and evolving through the decades, the Constellation line became synonymous with architectural case designs and unrelenting mechanical precision. This particular example captures the quintessential 1973 aesthetic with its robust tonneau-shaped case and integrated-style brick-link bracelet. It offers collectors an opportunity to own a piece of Omega's golden era of chronometry, presenting a highly wearable steel canvas that perfectly balances elegant dress watch proportions with everyday durability.

Brand: Omega
Model: Constellation
Reference Number: ST 168.0056
Serial Number: 36136027
Movement: Automatic Caliber 1011
Dial: Silver dial with black-accented applied indices, exhibiting localized vintage spotting and patinated lume elements
Case Size: 34 mm (excluding the crown)
Case Material: Stainless Steel
Production Year: 1973
Condition: Good vintage condition with honest wear and characterful dial aging

Dial and Hands
The watch features a refined silver dial with a subtle vertical brushing that catches the light beautifully. It is adorned with applied, faceted steel hour markers featuring black inserts, which harmonize perfectly with the black-painted hour and minute hands. The typography is crisp, with the classic serif Omega font and the elegant Constellation script proudly displayed. A framed date window sits neatly at the three o'clock position. The dial shows clear, honest signs of vintage aging, most notably a few distinct dark spots near the center pinion and just above the Omega text, alongside subtle overall surface patina. The original lume dots positioned at the outer edges of the indices have aged to a creamy, consistent tone, while the luminous material within the hands shows age-appropriate darkening and oxidation, authenticating the untouched nature of this vintage piece.

Case and Crystal
The 34 mm stainless steel case features a classic tonneau silhouette, characteristic of Omega's transition into 1970s design language. The case retains strong structural integrity, showcasing a handsome contrast between the vertically brushed upper surfaces and the polished case flanks. Honest signs of regular wear, including light surface scratches and minor handling marks, are visible across the bezel and case sides, consistent with a watch that has been enjoyed over the decades. The original fluted crown, correctly signed with the Omega logo, remains crisp and easily operable. The screw-down caseback is a true highlight, featuring the iconic Geneva Observatory medallion surrounded by eight stars, deeply engraved and well-preserved. The watch is fitted with a flat mineral crystal, which remains clear with minimal wear and allows an unobstructed view of the vintage display beneath.

Movement
Powering this timepiece is the esteemed Omega Caliber 1011, an in-house automatic movement renowned for its chronometer-grade performance. As viewed through the detailed inspection images, the movement displays Omega's signature copper-toned plating, which remains rich and visually impressive. The rotor and bridges are clearly stamped with the caliber number, the 23 jewels designation, and note that it is adjusted to five positions and temperature. The serial number 36136027 is sharply engraved on the bridge. Performing well within expected vintage tolerances; running strong and steady. The timegrapher results indicate a performance of +20 to +25 seconds per day.

Strap
The watch is fitted with an original Omega stainless steel brick-link bracelet, a highly sought-after and incredibly comfortable design from this era. The bracelet flows seamlessly from the case, featuring endlinks clearly stamped with the reference 056. The folding clasp is secured with a prominent, raised Omega logo. The bracelet exhibits moderate stretch and surface wear consistent with its age, maintaining a secure and highly attractive presence on the wrist.

Condition
This Omega Constellation is presented in good vintage condition. It is a highly authentic piece that proudly wears its history. The case remains robust with well-defined transitions between brushed and polished finishes, though it exhibits standard surface scratches from years of use. The dial is highly legible but does bear visible localized spotting and lume degradation, which provides a distinct vintage character rather than detracting from the overall charm. The bracelet is fully functional and period correct, completing a very honest and appealing collector's package.

Dimensions
Case Size: 34 mm (excluding the crown)
Wrist Size: 17.5 cm

Remarks
This Constellation is a superb representation of Omega's dedication to precision engineering wrapped in compelling design. The combination of the tonneau case, the intricate brick-link bracelet, and the chronometer-certified Caliber 1011 makes this a versatile and historically significant timepiece. It is perfectly suited for the collector who appreciates mechanical pedigree and the unique, unpolished aesthetic of a truly worn and loved vintage watch.

History
Introduced in 1952, the Omega Constellation was created to be the brand's flagship line, celebrating Omega's numerous precision records at the Kew-Teddington and Geneva observatory trials. The eight stars on the caseback medallion symbolize these monumental achievements in chronometry. Over the decades, the Constellation evolved from the pie-pan dials of the 1950s to the sleek, integrated designs of the 1970s, continuously housing Omega's most refined and accurate automatic movements. It remains one of the most respected and recognizable model families in the history of Swiss watchmaking.

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-0032