OmegaConstellation

Reputedly designed by Gerald Genta, the C-shaped Constellation was initially released in December 1964. These first C-shaped cases were powered by the non-quickset date calibre 561 and were produced until around the middle of 1966. Somewhere during the history of this model, the description morphed into case number 168.017.

The design of the C-shape Constellation reflected an emerging trend in the 1960s towards bigger watches with contours that were the antithesis of most previous designs. As seen on this 168.017 from 1971, the lugs are fully integrated with the case middle, creating the impression of a larger case diameter and providing a clean, curved, continuous line from lug to lug.

The dial on this example has a lovely gold linen texture, and the stick-shaped hour markers have onyx inlays. At the bottom of the dial, near the 6 o’clock position, the dial bears the text OM, French for ‘Or massif’, meaning solid gold. The date window is elegantly edged with a gold bevel, continuing the gold theme.

On the reverse, the gold caseback has the Geneva Observatory emblem marking Omega’s seven gold medals in chronometry competitions. The case back bears an engraved dedication dated 1972.

The case’s knurled bezel and satin brush finishing give the watch a luxurious and distinguished look. This lot is presented on a period leather strap with gold-tone buckle. The watch shows some signs of wear commensurate with age, and its condition is within the bounds of the seller’s A grading. No box or papers are supplied in the sale.

All watches offered for sale are searched and cleared against The Watch Register database and a certificate is available to the winning bidder upon request.

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