Omega Constellation Ref. 168.005 - Rare Gloss Black Dial - 1966

The Omega Constellation Ref. 168.005 is one of the most recognisable and collectible vintage Omega references of the 1960s. Produced during a period when the Constellation sat at the top of Omega’s range, these watches were built as high grade automatic chronometers and represented some of the best watchmaking Omega had to offer at the time.

This 1966 example is particularly special because of its rare gloss black gilt dial. Most vintage Omega Constellation watches are found with silver, champagne or lighter coloured dials, so a black dial example immediately stands apart. The combination of the glossy black surface, gilt printing, gold tone hour markers and matching hands gives the watch a far more dramatic and luxurious feel than a standard Constellation.

The 34mm steel case has the classic Constellation proportions, with sharp angular lugs and a very elegant wrist presence. It wears exactly as a vintage Omega should, refined, slim and balanced, but with enough visual interest to feel genuinely special.

Inside is the Omega calibre 561 automatic movement, a respected chronometer rated movement from one of Omega’s strongest periods. These movements were built with quality and precision in mind, which is exactly why the Constellation became such an important model family for the brand.

Fitted to a taupe leather strap, this is a rare and very attractive vintage Omega Constellation with the kind of dial that collectors actively look for.

Key Features

• Omega Constellation Ref. 168.005

• Year 1966

• Omega calibre 561 automatic movement

• Chronometer rated movement

• 34mm stainless steel case

• Rare gloss black gilt dial

• Gold tone applied hour markers

• Matching gold tone hands

• Date function at 3 o’clock

• Acrylic crystal

• Taupe leather strap

• Sold as watch only

A Word on Condition

This Omega Constellation presents beautifully, with the dial being the clear standout feature. The gloss black surface gives the watch real depth, while the gilt text, applied hour markers and hands provide a warm contrast against the darker dial.

The dial has a wonderful vintage presence and remains highly attractive overall. Black vintage dials are notoriously difficult to find in strong condition, as they tend to show ageing, marks and deterioration far more obviously than lighter dials. That makes the overall visual impact of this example particularly appealing.

The steel case shows honest signs of age and careful use, as expected for a watch from 1966, while retaining the elegant case profile that makes this reference so desirable. The acrylic crystal adds the warmth and softness collectors expect from a vintage Constellation.

Overall, this is a very handsome and uncommon example of the Omega Constellation Ref. 168.005, made especially desirable by its rare gloss black gilt dial.

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 whether a box or papers happen to be present.

Many vintage watches have lost their packaging over time, and we do not believe in inflating prices with non-original extras. If a watch does include genuine box and papers, this will always be clearly noted in the description.

All purchases are supplied with bespoke Watts On Watches packaging and full purchase documentation.

Why Buy This Watch

Vintage Omega Constellation watches from the 1960s offer some of the best value in the vintage watch market. They were high quality, chronometer rated watches when new, and they remain beautifully made, elegant and historically important today.

This example goes a step further because of the gloss black gilt dial. It gives the watch a far rarer and more striking appearance than the usual silver dial Constellation, while still keeping the classic restraint that makes these watches so wearable.

For someone looking for a vintage Omega with real collector appeal, strong visual character and proper 1960s chronometer heritage, this Ref. 168.005 is a very compelling choice. It is elegant, unusual and exactly the kind of watch that shows why vintage Omega Constellations deserve serious attention.

Every watch we sell is fully inspected and professionally serviced where required to meet our exacting standards. All purchases are supplied with bespoke Watts On Watches packaging, full purchase documentation and a 12 month warranty as standard.