It is so hard to find an Omega Constelation from the early 60’s in good condition especially with a good original dial. It seems that I am with the majority in seeing these, nicknamed “pie pan” models, as the most beautiful amongst the beautiful Omegas of the period.

This is a 1963 example featuring the “dog leg” lugs, “pie pan dial” and the amazing, chronometer grade (and beautiful) 561 movement.

The Constellation badge

The constellation has, since its inception, always been the flagship of the Omega range. Back in the ’50s and ’60s, Omega had a higher status than Rolex, at least in my part of the world.  Omega was renowned as a ‘high value’ watch company, producing exceptionally well-made pieces that offered value, accuracy and dependability. And this deserved status was due to a solid commitment to old-fashioned notions of quality and artistry as opposed to producing watches to a price. It was a prestigious enough brand to be given to presidents as gifts. And the brand received a further boost when the Speedmaster was robust enough to be chosen by NASA for their astronauts. It was comparatively expensive to buy an Omega watch in the 1950s and 60s and, although an Omega watch was desirable to the ordinary man, it was way beyond his budget.

This is the fourth constellation that I have restored but it is the only one in my collection now. The other three have all been sold as I succumbed to the high prices that these beautiful watches attract.

The Omega watermark over the centre of the hands

It is by no means a perfect example of a 1963 Constelation. The original dial is sadly aged and the movement seems to have suffered moisture damage because parts like the rotor have been buffed.  It is all original, signed 5 times including a watermark logo in the centre of the perspex.