The 1960's were an important decade for Omega. In 1959 Omega introduced a new series of movements that would become famous powering their flagship watch, the Constellation, and would be officially certified by the "Contrôle Official Suisse des Chronomètres" (Swiss watch governing body) as a chronometer, the highest honour given to a movement. The next year Omega produced 20,000 Constellations in succession that all achieved chronometer status with no failures.
One of the in this new series was the Caliber 561. Made exclusively for the Constellation, it was one of the very finest volume-produced automatics from the era and is the mechanism that powers the Constellation featured here.
Here are some of its features:
- High grade movement officially certified as a chronometer by the C.O.S.C., the highest distinction that can be given to a watch based on its accuracy
- Twenty-four (24) rubies (seven more than in many watches) to reduce friction
- Long 50 hour running reserve keeps the watch consistently running, even when not worn daily
- Original silver "Omega De Luxe" dial
- Classic and elegant waterproof style case with observatory logo on the back
This reference, 168.004 is larger Constellation at times called the "Jumbo" model because it is larger than all of the similar Constellations which have 34mm cases. It measures 35.8mm in diameter, about the size of a Rolex Datejust.
It has fully original parts and has just finished a true expertly done restoration. It presents in gorgeous condition. The back shows signs of previous polishing - otherwise the watch presents as about a 9.7 out of 10. Our photos couldn't do it justice!
On the wrist it presents as mint. The dial has been meticulously restored - the printing could pass as Omega factory done to the naked eye.
As part of the restoration a Master Watchmaker has freshly overhauled it. It is running exceptionally strong and true, keeping time better than many brand new Omega chronometers in our testing position.
For the finishing touch we have equipped it with a brand new calfskin leather strap making it ready for immediate enjoyment.
Included with the purchase is a one-year C.O.T. warranty on the movement and its function, a custom printed Connoisseur of Time Certificate of Authenticity, and a new timing certificate.
A nearly six decade old Omega that looks like new on the wrist!
Note: Similar watches can be found in Marco Richon's work, Omega: A Journey Through Time, 2007.
- Manufacturer: Omega
- Country of origin: Switzerland
- Serial no.: 20,360,256
- Year built: c. 1963
- Model: Constellation, ref. ST 168.004
- Functions: Hours, Minutes, Sweep Seconds, Automatic, Date
- Designed for: Men
- Case material: Stainless steel
- Case condition: Case back shows signs of previous polishing. Otherwise it presents as mint with only light signs of previous polishing. On the wrist it presents as mint.
- Dimensions: 35.8mm wide (excluding crown) 40mm long lug tip-to-tip
- Dial: Matte black, signed Omega and Constellation, so called "curved pie pan" DeLuxe model, riveted steel hour markers topped with white, expertly restored
- Hands: Original, steel "dauphines"
- Movement type: Cal. 561, 24 jewels, straight line lever escapement, monometallic balance adjusted to 5 positions and temperatures, shock absorber, self-compensating flat balance spring, micrometer regulator
- Movement markings: Omega Watch Co., Cal. 561, Adjusted 5 positions, 24 Jewels
- Band: Calfskin leather, fully stitched, padded, brand new and unworn, previously fitted with what appears to be an aftermarket buckle done in an Omega style
- Crystal: Acrylic, appears original and no longer signed, excellent
- Width between lugs: 18mm
- Serviced: As part of the restoration a Master Watchmaker has freshly overhauled it.
- Timing: Timed to precision on a state-of-the-art computerized system. It is running exceptionally strong and true, keeping time better than many brand new Omega chronometers in our testing position. Your watch is important to us, and we will take care of it for its lifetime. We provide the best after sale care in the business with an experienced team of watchmakers both of whom each have over forty years of experience and a large number of parts.
- Warranty: 1-year international warranty. Please email [email protected] for details.
- Box/Papers: BOX - Connoisseur of Time watch presentation box; PAPERS - Custom printed Connoisseur of Time Certificate of Authenticity; New timing certificate
- Returns: 7 days full refund. 100% satisfaction guarantee
