Omega Constellation History

Omega launched the Constellation in 1952 as its chronometer line. The 1950s and 1960s brought pie-pan dials, the observatory case-back and dog-leg lugs; the 1970s brought quartz; 1982 brought the Manhattan with its four "claws" on the bezel; and the Globemaster later returned to the pie-pan look. This guide follows the line through each era.

Thinking of selling an Omega Constellation?

Free, no obligation, returned at our cost if you decline.

Faustas Svencionis

1952 to the 1960s

The first Constellations were automatic chronometers with the Geneva Observatory medallion on the back. Pie-pan dials, applied markers and dog-leg lugs define the period, alongside the angular C-shaped cases of the 1960s.

  1. 1952
  2. Pie-pan and dog-leg lugs
  3. C-shape cases
Vintage Omega Constellation automatic in 18KT gold, ref. 168015, bought by Mozeris Fine Antiques
Vintage Omega Constellation automatic in 18KT gold, ref. 168015, bought by Mozeris Fine Antiques
Vintage Omega Constellation automatic chronometer, bought by Mozeris Fine Antiques
Vintage Omega Constellation automatic chronometer, bought by Mozeris Fine Antiques

The quartz years

In the 1970s Omega fitted quartz movements to the Constellation, including early electronic chronometers, alongside its mechanical models.

Omega Constellation chronometer automatic from the 1960s, bought by Mozeris Fine Antiques
Omega Constellation chronometer automatic from the 1960s, bought by Mozeris Fine Antiques
Vintage Omega Constellation automatic in stainless steel, bought by Mozeris Fine Antiques
Vintage Omega Constellation automatic in stainless steel, bought by Mozeris Fine Antiques

The Manhattan, 1982

The Manhattan of 1982 introduced the four "griffes", claws holding the crystal at three and nine, and an integrated bracelet. It became the best-known modern Constellation, made in steel, two-tone and gold, for men and women.

The Globemaster

The Globemaster returned to the pie-pan dial and fluted bezel of the early watches, with certified Master Chronometer movements.

Check a Constellation of any era:

See also how we check a watch in our watch guides.

1The dial

Constellation and Omega crisply printed; pie-pan or flat, original, not refinished.

2The case-back medallion

The observatory and stars, crisp and centred.

3The calibre

An Omega movement correct for the reference.

4The bracelet

Original Omega links and clasp code.

5Papers

A certificate or box whose numbers match.

Have a Constellation? Send photos of the dial and case-back for a free, honest check.

Free, no obligation, returned at our cost if you decline.

What is my Omega Constellation worth?

Whether a Constellation holds its value comes down to the era and reference, the movement (automatic, manual or quartz), the case metal, the originality of the dial, the condition, and any box and papers, judged against current demand and recent sales. We never publish figures.

Free, no obligation, and returned at our cost if you decline.

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  • Era and reference
  • Movement
  • Case metal
  • Dial
  • Condition
  • Box and papers

How selling works

  • 1

    Send photographs

    of the dial, the case-back inside and out, the bracelet, and any box or papers.

  • 2

    Free value inspection

    We reply within one working day with an estimate, subject to inspection. If our offer differs, you can decline and we return it at our cost.

  • 3

    Paid the same day after inspection

    by bank transfer or in cash, in Mayfair, at our Braintree office, by post or by free collection.

Insured up to £10,000 per parcel when you send to us.

Questions people ask

When was the Omega Constellation launched?

In 1952, as Omega’s chronometer line. Early models carried the Geneva Observatory medallion on the case-back, recalling the chronometer trials in which Omega competed. If you have one, send photographs and we will tell you more, free. Ask us if you would like to know more about your own piece.

What is a dog-leg lug?

A lug with a stepped, angled shape, like a dog’s hind leg, found on some 1950s and 1960s Constellations. Original, unpolished dog-leg lugs are one of the details we look at. Ask us if you would like to know more about your own piece.

What is the Constellation Manhattan?

The Constellation introduced in 1982, with four claws, or griffes, holding the crystal at three and nine, and an integrated bracelet. It was made in steel, two-tone and gold, for men and women. Send a clear photograph and we will tell you honestly what we see.

How much is an Omega Constellation worth?

It depends on the era and reference, the movement, the case metal, the originality of the dial, the condition and any papers, judged against current demand and recent sales. We do not publish prices. Send photographs for a free value inspection.

Do you buy quartz Constellations?

Yes. We buy Constellations of every era, mechanical and quartz, in steel, two-tone and gold. Send photographs of the dial, case-back and bracelet for a free value inspection. A short message with two or three photographs is all it takes to start.

Where can I sell an Omega Constellation?

To a buyer who checks the dial, case and movement in person. We buy Omega directly: a free value inspection from photographs, then an appointment in Mayfair or at our Braintree office, post or free collection. You are paid the same day after inspection.

Selling an Omega Constellation?

Send a photograph of the dial and case-back for a free value inspection, with no obligation.

Free, no obligation, returned at our cost if you decline.

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