Description

There is no argument that during the mid 50s to the late 60s; Omega and Rolex fought it out to see who would be the premier Swiss brand in the upper mid-market. Rolex put great emphasis on their robustness whilst Omega were undoubtedly the more stylish of the two.

This can best be exemplified by this Constellation from 1961, which was a direct competitor for the Datejust. It was designed in 1959 by Gerald Genta, it oozes style particularly in this stainless steel version. There is hardly a straight line on the whole watch, apart from the hour batons; it’s almost flamboyant compared to the relative austerity of the contemporary Datejust, its direct competitor.

In truth, I would probably choose the Datejust myself, but I can’t help but admire this model – for crying out loud – even the box is more flamboyant, red leather & taupe suede. This is certainly the whole package. Lift out the insert and there is an original Omega ‘grains of rice’ bracelet lying there waiting to be fitted instead of the new leather strap with steel Omega buckle.

The silver ‘pie pan’ dial is gorgeous, the outer surfaces being brushed and the centre section matte; the Omega name is applied polished steel, as is the Omega symbol and the star above the 6. The dial has applied diamond cut bar indices, these have a groove along their length which houses a jet black insert. The polished steel pointed dauphine hands have a black insert in each one, where the luminous would normally sit, on the more conventional dial.

The movement is Omega’s classic 24 jewel calibre 551with micrometer regulation, full rotor auto winding and a wonderful rose finish

The case is in 95+% condition and the dial is 95+%, whilst the movement is also 95+%.

The watch measures 34mm diameter, 43.5mm lug to lug and 10.5mm high, it takes a 18mm strap and a new reptile grained leather strap with original steel Omega buckle is fitted.

£2,750.00 (approx. $3,850.00 US)