Omega Constellation "C-Shape" Chronometer Ref. ST 168.017 (or similar gold-capped/solid gold variant)
Dress Watch / Luxury Dress Watch · Omega (Swatch Group / SSIH historical lineage), Luxury tier manufacturer renowned for precision timing and historical milestones.
Period: Vintage (Late 1960s-1970s) / Neo-Vintage transitional era, characterized by the iconic C-shape case design penned by legendary Gerald Genta.
Type
Dress Watch / Luxury Dress Watch
Brand
Omega (Swatch Group / SSIH historical lineage), Luxury tier manufacturer renowned for precision timing and historical milestones.
Movement
Automatic / Self-winding mechanical, Omega Caliber 561 or 564, high-beat frequency of 19,800 vph, quickset date function (on Cal. 564), 24 jewels, and chronometer certification.
Dimensions
Case diameter approximately 35mm, thickness around 11mm, lug-to-lug distance roughly 40mm, integrated lug width tapering to the bracelet. Wears slightly larger due to the integrated C-shape case geometry.
Description
An exquisite example of mid-century luxury design, this vintage Omega Constellation showcases the visionary work of master watch designer Gérald Genta. The distinctive C-shaped case flows seamlessly into the integrated bracelet, creating a bold yet elegant wrist presence. Powered by a legendary high-grade automatic chronometer movement, it represents the absolute pinnacle of daily-wear luxury dress watches from its era.
Key Features
Iconic C-shape case designed by Gérald Genta, chronometer-grade automatic movement with quickset date, integrated gold-toned bracelet, applied Constellation star emblem, and classic baton indices.
Dial Description
Champagne/silver sunburst dial with applied black-inlaid baton indices and matching baton hands. Features a framed date window at the 3 o'clock position, printed black minute track, applied Omega logo, and the signature Constellation star above the 6 o'clock position.
Case Material
18k Yellow Gold / Yellow Gold Capped with stainless steel back (common for this reference series), featuring a combination of polished and brushed finishes.
Crystal Type
Acrylic or Hesalite crystal with a cyclops lens over the date window at 3 o'clock, characteristic of vintage Omega watches of this period.
Bezel Details
Integrated smooth fixed gold bezel forming the top profile of the distinct C-shaped case silhouette, highly polished.
Crown & Pushers
Signed Omega logo crown, pull-out style with quickset date mechanism (pulling the crown to the outermost position repeatedly advances the date on Caliber 564 movements).
Bracelet or Strap
Integrated brick-link or brick-style gold bracelet with folding clasp, seamlessly matching the architectural lines of the C-shape case.
Caseback Details
Solid screw-down caseback, typically featuring the embossed Omega Constellation observatory medallion surrounded by eight symbolic stars and the phrase "Waterproof" or relevant reference engravings.
Movement Type
Automatic / Self-winding mechanical, Omega Caliber 561 or 564, high-beat frequency of 19,800 vph, quickset date function (on Cal. 564), 24 jewels, and chronometer certification.
Water Resistance
Originally rated for light moisture resistance (splash resistant or waterproof in period terminology), but due to age, worn gaskets, and lack of modern screw-down crown seals, it should be kept away from water entirely today.
Origin & Provenance
Swiss Made, manufactured in Bienne, Switzerland, featuring an in-house Omega automatic chronometer movement.
Age Estimate
Circa late 1960s to early 1970s based on the C-shape case architecture, movement caliber generation, and dial typography.
Cultural Significance
Representing the golden age of integrated-case design pioneered by Gérald Genta before his work on the Royal Oak and Nautilus, the C-shape Constellation is a cornerstone piece for vintage collectors studying mid-century luxury aesthetics.
Condition Notes
Good vintage condition. Case shows normal light surface wear consistent with age, retaining sharp lines on the C-shape bezel edges. Dial is clean with minor aging appropriate for a vintage piece. Crystal shows minor hairline scratches polishable via Polywatch. Movement winds smoothly and keeps good vintage time, though a service is recommended.
Value Estimate
Secondary market value ranges generally between $1,500 to $4,000 USD depending heavily on whether the watch is solid 18k gold versus gold-capped, the inclusion of original box and papers, and the overall condition of the movement and case.
Care & Maintenance
Recommended service interval every 5 to 7 years to ensure lubrication integrity. Avoid exposing this vintage timepiece to water due to degraded historical gaskets. Keep away from strong magnetic fields and store in a stable, dry environment.
Similar Watches
Omega Seamaster Cosmic, Rolex Datejust Ref. 1601 in yellow gold, Universal Genève Polerouter, Longines Conquest.
Interesting Facts
The Constellation line was launched in 1952 as Omega's flagship precision line, directly competing with the Rolex Datejust. The eight stars on the observatory caseback medallion represent Omega's historic triumphs at the Kew-Teddington and Geneva observatory chronometer trials.