1970 Omega Constellation Chronometer F300hz - Ref. 198.003
A fine and very well preserved Omega Constellation Chronometer.
WHY IS THIS WATCH SPECIAL
The f300 movement was developed by ESA, an update by Max Hetzel of the original Bulova tuning fork . ESA supplied these to companies inc; Longines, IWC, Baume & Mercier, Omega, etc…Omega were their largest customer by far, all Omega movements have a gilt finish compared to the Geneve stripes of the other marques. The Omega f300 chronometers were tested to mechanical movements standards and they easily pass. Although more accurate than mechanical movements, tuning fork movements were quickly replaced by quartz movements, which became cheaper to produce.
This particular Chronometer is extremely well preserved and never polished, a cool and affordable vintage Omega.
THE STORY
Like other watch manufacturers in the 1970s, Omega employed the ESA 9162 (date only) and ESA 9164 (day and date) tuning fork movements in many of their watches.
The ESA 9162 / ESA 9184 movements are often considered the “Rolls Royce” of tuning fork movements. They were designed by Max Hetzel, who had previously worked for Bulova; he was also responsible for the Accutron 214. In May 1972, ESA also released a chronograph version of these tuning fork movements; it was known as the ESA 9210 and was used in the Omega Speedsonic range of watches.
The Omega watches employing these tuning fork movements were usually referred to as the ‘Omega f300’ models reflecting the frequency of the tuning fork.
The Omega version of these movements differ from standard ESA 9162, 9164 and 9210 movements in having copper plated plates throughout the movement; all other watch manufacturers kept the ESA-supplied nickel plated plates.
THE DATA
- Maker: Omega
- Model: Constellation Chronometer F300hz
- Reference: 198.003
- Year: 1970
- Material: Stainless Steel
- Dimentions (WxHxT): 35,5x42x11mm
- Caliber: Omega 1250
- Bracelet/Strap: Black leather
- Lug width: 19mm
- Box/Papers: N/A
THE IMPORTANT DETAILS
This watch is in very well preserved condition. All parts are original, the case is unpolished and every function works properly.
This is a collectible Omega that will draw the attention of watch enhousiasts for sure.
It has a nice presence on the wrist, perfect for everyday wear.
