1968 Omega Constellation Chronometer + Original Omega box - Stainless steel - Ref. 168.0058
A fine and legendary 'C' Shaped Omega Constellation Automatic Chronometer + Original box
WHY IS THIS WATCH SPECIAL
Designed by Gerald Genta, the design of the C-Shape Constellation reflected an emerging trend in the early 1960s towards bigger watches with contours that were the antithesis of previous designs: Shapes that rejected past notions of style and reflected contemporary ideas on line and function. This particular example illustrates the mirror polished chamfer, or facet, separating the upper from the side case. Notice the brush finishing on the upper and side of the case. The case back, being the first of the third design phase feature a medallion with a brickwork observatory roof. Collectors nominate the calibre 564 Constellation as the true owner of the title of Best Production Movement Ever Produced, possibly because of its quick set modification.
THE STORY
Omega's rich history begins with its founder, Louis Brandt, who established the firm in 1848 in La Chax de Fonds. In 1903, the company changed it's name to Omega, becoming the only watch brand in history to have been named after one its own movements. A full-fledged manufacturer of highly accurate, affordable and reliable watches, its sterling reputation enabled them to be chosen as the first watch company to time the Olympic Games beginning in 1932. Its continued focus on precision and reliability ultimately led their Speedmaster chronograph to be chosen by the NASA in 1965, the first watch worn on the moon.
Constellation was initially released as model 168.009 in December 1964. The first C-Shapes, designed by Gérald Genta, were indeed powered by the non-quickset date calibre 561 and examples of calibre 561-powered Cs were produced until
around the middle of 1966. Somewhere during the history of this model (quite early if available evidence is to be believed) the model description morphed into case number 168.017. Many cases from the earlier production period can be seen with the number 168.009/017 or with both numbers stamped on the inner case back. Later calibre 564 C-Shape case backs often show only 168.017. Constellations powered by calibre 564 started reaching the shops in the first half of 1966: the C-Shaped and 35mm round models being the earliest cases to house the movement. Also housing calibre 564 was the new monocoque (one shell) series that featured the some of last of the pie pan dials along with more contemporary flat dials.
- THE DATAMaker: Omega
- Model: Constellation Automatic Chronometer
- Reference: 168.0058
- Year: 1973
- Material: Stainless steel
- Dimentions (WxHxT): 35x40,5x10mm
- Caliber: In House Omega 564 Chronometer
- Bracelet/Strap: Black leather
- Lug width: 18mm
- Box/Papers: Original 1973 Omega box
THE IMPORTANT DETAILS
This watch is in superb condition for its age. The case is well preserved, and the white dial with the applied markers looks stunning. This is a fine classic vintage timepiece, elegant and sporty, with a presence on the wrist, perfect for everyday wear.
