Originally introduced in 1952, following the the highly-successful "Centenary", the
Omega Constellation was designed as a luxury dress-watch, manufactured to achieve Chronometer status by the
Contrôle Officiel Suisse des Chronomètres (or
COSC). The
Constellation has since become synonymous with luxury-chronometer watches, crafted at the highest level - with elegantly-refined cases, highly-finished dials and ultra-precise movements.
This stunning
Omega Constellation “De Luxe” example is from 1956 (with serial number 114 XXXXX). Whilst the aesthetics are undeniably attractive, it is the condition that stands out. The round, solid-gold case and lyre-shaped lugs are perfectly-preserved, while the double-bevelled bezel retains its original shape. As with all
Omega Constellation examples, the case-back bears the hand-engraved symbol of
Omega’s famous records for precision, the
Observatory medal - referencing the chronometer trials’ location, with eight stars in the sky to represent each chronometer record broken 1931.
Although the
Constellation model is known to many simply by the name, a number of much rarer examples exist, designated the
Constellation “Luxe” range - effectively highly-premium equivalents of the classic
Omega Constellation. This example, the reference 2799, was the first “De Luxe” model to feature an O-ring rubber-based gasket between the press-in case-back and the case.
The solid-gold dial is exceptionally well-proportioned, featuring hand-riveted, faceted indexes for the hour markers. The centre of the dial subtly features an inner-minute track and is lightly-brushed, balanced with an outer high-polished 'pie pan' edge. The classic styling is further expressed through
Omega's gold Daulphine handset, complementing the unique shaping of the gold hour markers perfectly. The
Omega emblem and logo are applied, along with the small
Constellation star logo at six o’clock.
The watch carries
Omega’s self-winding, chronometer certified calibre 354 (adjusted to 5 positions and temperatures) at its heart, beating at 19,800 A/h, with a power reserve of 42 hours.
Where the
Constellation itself is considered collectable, this “de Luxe” example is considerably rarer. Having been preserved in near-original condition, it is surely one of the best examples of one of
Omega's rarest watches, that may not reappear on the market for some time.
Viewings can be arranged in Central London by appointment.
