About the Omega Constellation Series
overview
Here we will write about the history of the Constellation series, which Omega released in the 1950s and has served as its flagship model to this day, and explain the collection we own.
prehistory
Before talking about the Constellation series, there is one thing that we absolutely cannot leave out. That is the "COSC Chronometer Certification System." This is an officially recognized Swiss watch precision and durability test. All watches are brought to one of three testing laboratories in Switzerland and undergo testing for 15 days. Only watches that pass the test can bear this honorable title. Only 3% of Swiss-made watches are certified.
In 1948, Omega released the "Centenary" model to commemorate its 100th anniversary. The model featured a solid gold case, automatic winding, and a chronometer-certified movement.
The flagship model that was mass-produced based on the Centenary is the Constellation, which we will explain here.
About the Constellation Series
The first Constellation model was released in 1952. The main feature of this model is its 12-sided dial design known as the pie-pan dial. Nicknamed for its resemblance to a pie pan, it is sometimes said to be one of the most beautiful dial designs in the history of watches.
From then on, the Constellation II evolved into the "Constellation II" in the early 1960s, featuring the Caliber 550 series, which was successfully made thinner, and the Caliber 560 series, which added a date display. The "Constellation II" utilized technology from the Seamaster, and simultaneously improved two elements: a thinner case and improved water resistance, making it an extremely practical watch for its time.
The Constellation III, released in 1964, evolved into a stylish, bezel-less case known as the "C-line," making it an even more refined model. This "C-line" is known as a design by Gérald Genta, and it gives a glimpse into the greatness of his achievements. Various variations have been released since then, and it remains Omega's flagship watch to this day. We've looked at three generations of the Constellation III, from the first model to the present, and selected three of the most exquisite examples.
Omega Constellation Ref.2699 “De Luxe”
This model bears the name "De Luxe," the top-of-the-line model of the first Constellation. Ref. 2699 is the reference number given to the first Constellation solid 18-karat gold model, and is equipped with the half-rotor automatic Cal. 354. This particular example features the pie-pan dial characteristic of the first model, and is fitted with the rare and highly sought-after genuine Omega ladder bracelet. Both the interior and exterior remain in superb original condition, making this a watch that will impress even the most discerning watch enthusiasts.
Omega Constellation Ref.143812
This is the so-called "Constellation II" model, and judging from the dial design and other factors, it is believed to have been manufactured in 1958 or 1959. Equipped with the Caliber 551, a chronometer-certified automatic movement that supported Omega's golden age, it reigned as the top model of its time. This watch also comes with a rare, genuine 18K solid gold bracelet, and its unpolished exterior and undamaged dial suggest that it has been carefully stored and maintained in excellent condition.
Omega Constellation Ref.168.009
The last model we'll introduce is a third-generation model with a date display and a case known as the "C-line." This C-line case is also known for being designed by Gérald Genta, who is known for designing the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak and the Patek Philippe Nautilus. This particular watch was produced around 1965 and features a rare genuine 18K bracelet, making it both practical and luxurious.
Reference materials;
・Webchronos, "Learning about the history and successive models of the Omega Constellation makes you love this watch even more!" (https://www.webchronos.net/features/120410/)
・Omega, “1952: The First Constellation” (https://www.omegawatches.com/chronicle/1952-the-first-constellation)