One of the most recognizable watches in Omega’s catalog is certainly the Constellation, with its trademark ‘claws’ at 3 and 9 o’clock. It’s a feature that polarizes collectors in the same way that many other aspects of the Constellation do, and there is no denying its iconic status. But what is it about this watch that has made it so appealing to collectors over the decades?
Throughout the ages, the Omega constellation vintage has evolved into many different variations. From the early ‘pie-pan’ dials to the more modern ‘Globemaster’ models, it has been through quite the journey. It’s hard not to get lost in the reference jungle that is the Constellation; as each era has produced something slightly different, it can be easy to miss some of its best attributes.
The most sought-after vintage constellations belong to the ‘Pie-Pan’ era, which lasted for roughly 20 years after the model was first introduced in 1952. These examples boast nice fancy lugs, 10-sided crowns, and beautiful copper-colored movements. The case design was a bit more angular by the 1960s, with the rounded cases of earlier models giving way to broader styles. These larger models also saw the introduction of flat dials and gold and onyx stick hour markers.
By the 1970s, Omega was ready to embrace the quartz movement. This was a turbulent time for the Swiss watch industry as traditional mechanical chronometer-grade watches were being phased out, bankrupting many long-standing brands and making room for new players. Omega was quick to adapt with the Constellation, presenting three lines of quartz Constellation watches at the 1970 Basel Fair.
From there, the series continued to grow in popularity until the mid-80s when the Globemaster became its own distinctly designed line. The Globemaster’s retro 60s-inspired design helped to separate it from the Constellation lineup, which had become a little too cluttered with features like fluted bezels and pie-pan dials.
Today, the Omega Constellation has a surprisingly modern look despite its illustrious past. The ‘claws’ at 3 and o’clock are now purely ornamental and serve to highlight the sapphire crystal on the bezel. The stainless steel models are a great budget-friendly option for those who aren’t looking to spend as much on an Omega. The range also features a few solid gold options for those who want to make an investment in their collection.
The Constellation has always been a popular choice for collectors, but it’s never been more coveted than now. The combination of its timeless beauty and its relative affordability makes it a great addition to any watch collection. Just be sure to do your homework before you jump in, and be careful of fakes! Fortunately, there are plenty of trustworthy dealers out there to help you find your perfect watch.
