The Omega Constellation Ref. 168.005 is one of the great vintage Omega references and, for many collectors, one of the best looking Constellation cases ever made.
Launched during a period when Omega was producing some of its strongest chronometer grade watches, the Constellation line was designed to sit at the top of the brand’s offering. These were refined, high quality automatic watches with certified chronometer movements, elegant case designs and the now iconic observatory medallion on the case back.
This 1963 example has many of the details collectors want to see. The 34mm stainless steel case features the sharp dog leg lugs that make the 168.005 so recognisable. It is a case shape that gives the watch more presence than the dimensions suggest, with angular lugs that add structure and personality without losing the elegance of a classic dress watch.
The dial is a beautiful brushed silver example, giving the watch a clean and understated look. The vertical brushing catches the light nicely, while the applied hour markers, framed date window and Constellation script keep the watch unmistakably period correct in appearance. It is simple, refined and exactly the sort of dial layout that makes vintage Omega so appealing.
Powering the watch is the Omega automatic calibre 561 movement, a respected chronometer grade movement used in some of the most collectible Constellation references of the period. The watch is also fitted with an Omega engraved acrylic crystal and an original Omega beads of rice bracelet, both of which add to the overall charm and collectability of the piece.
This is a very well balanced vintage Omega Constellation. It has the right case, the right movement, a lovely dial and the bracelet that suits the watch perfectly.
Key Features
Omega Constellation Ref. 168.005
Year 1963
Omega automatic calibre 561 movement
Certified chronometer movement
34mm stainless steel case
Dog leg lugs
Brushed silver dial
Applied hour markers
Date aperture at 3 o’clock
Omega engraved acrylic crystal
Original Omega beads of rice bracelet
Observatory medallion case back
Sold as watch only
A Word on Condition
This Omega Constellation presents beautifully for a watch from 1963. The stainless steel case retains the distinctive dog leg lug profile that makes this reference so desirable, with honest signs of age and wear in keeping with a vintage watch of this period.
The brushed silver dial is especially attractive. It has a clean, elegant finish with applied markers, Omega branding, chronometer text and the Constellation signature all presenting well. The dial has the sort of subtle vintage character that gives the watch charm without taking away from its overall refinement.
The Omega engraved acrylic crystal is a nice detail, and the original beads of rice bracelet completes the watch perfectly. These bracelets are a major part of the look and feel of vintage Omega Constellations, giving the watch a comfortable and period correct presence on the wrist.
Overall, this is a well presented and highly wearable example of the Omega Constellation Ref. 168.005.
Accessories / The Set
This watch is sold as watch only, which is typical for vintage timepieces. We place greater value on condition, originality and overall integrity than on whether a box or papers happen to be present.
Many vintage watches have lost their original packaging over time, and we do not believe in inflating prices with non-original extras. With a watch like this, the important details are the calibre 561 movement, dog leg lug case, brushed silver dial, Omega crystal and original beads of rice bracelet.
All purchases are supplied with bespoke Watts On Watches packaging and full purchase documentation.
Why Buy This Watch
The Omega Constellation Ref. 168.005 is one of those watches that shows exactly why vintage Omega has such a loyal following. It is elegant, well made, historically important within the Omega catalogue and still very wearable today.
The appeal is in the combination. A chronometer grade automatic movement, a sharp dog leg lug case, a brushed silver dial and an original beads of rice bracelet. Nothing feels excessive, but every detail matters.
For collectors, the 168.005 is a core Constellation reference. It has the design language, movement quality and wrist presence that make these watches so rewarding to own. For someone looking for a refined vintage watch that still feels practical and easy to wear, it is equally compelling.
