The Omega Constellation is one of Omega's oldest timepiece collections, with over 190 different variants in shape, sizes and metals. In 1952, the Omega Constellation launched as a chronometer and highlighted Omega’s high-quality construction and unfaltering precision. A true testament to the timekeepers innovation and technical advancements.
In this article, we explore the world of the Omega Constellation, its vibrant beginnings and the excitement shared from the Constellation’s stars; Cindy Crawford, Nicole Kidman and Alessandra Ambrosio.
Written in the Stars: The Inspiration for the Omega Constellation Series
The Omega Constellation was inspired by the limited edition, Omega Centenary, designed by René Banwart. The Centenary was crafted in solid gold to celebrate Omega’s 100th year of innovation. The model became so popular with enthusiasts that Omega decided to curate a collection echoing the beauty of the Centenary whilst balancing the precision of the Swiss horologists. The first Omega Constellation launched in 1952, just four years after the birth of the Omega Seamaster.
The First Omega Constellation "The Swiss Watch"
The first Omega became known as “The Swiss Watch” because of its intelligent precision and high-quality construction. An elegant brown leather strap and gold bezel framed a first pie-pan dial where the dial has a flat center that slopes down to twelve facets around the edge, with each facet meeting an hour marker.
The first Omega Constellation also used unique bumper rotor automatic movements, the 351, 352 and 354. Instead of the present calibre movements where rotations are a full circle, These calibres strike bumper springs at either ends of the arc, between which the motor is bounced back and forth, giving the motion a distinctive feel on the wrist.
Elegant Features of the Omega Constellation
From the graceful contours of the first Omega Constellation, the collection became popular with watch enthusiasts and fashion-lovers alike. By bridging the gap between masculine craft and feminine elegance, Omega became set to launch the collection intermittently over the next 60 years.
Today, the Omega Constellation collection still sees advanced innovation in its calibres, along with experimental variants that include gem-set bezels and dials.
A Case back That Honours the Stars
The most famed case back of the Constellation collection features an engraving of an iconic medallion of the Geneva conservatory surrounded by eight stars. The emblem pays tribute to Omega’s rich Swiss heritage, paired with Omega’s record-breaking achievements in the Observatory chronometer trials. Each star represents a milestone in accuracy and excellence.
In some more recent Omega Constellation editions, the case back is elegantly replaced with a scratch-resistent domed sapphire crystal to highlight the innovative calibres like the Omega 8802 as seen on the Constellation Co-Axial Master Chronometer Small Seconds 34mm.
Luxe Integrated Bracelets
In 1982, Omega introduced the Constellation Manhattan, the first Omega Constellation to revolutionise the collection with a beautiful integrated bracelet. The seamless transition between the case and bracelet creates a flowering aesthetic which transforms the timepieces into statements of fashion in new heights. Complementary polished links are designed to fit effortlessly on the wrist, as well as providing comfort.
Today, the Omega Constellation collection boasts an impressive variety of integrated bracelets and leather straps to give the wearer complete choice of style for any event. True beauty in these bracelets comes from the ingenious structure, where once purchased, you can interchange straps. This means that you can personalise your Omega constellation to make it truly yours, and fit for any occasion.
Constellation Small Seconds
In 2016, the Omega Constellation collection introduced the first small seconds subdial, allowing the wearer to enjoy exact precision accompanied with a defined and sophisticated look. The small seconds subdial is an ode to the timekeeping heritage of Omega and their early pocket watches.
On some editions of the Constellations, the small seconds subdial also includes a sophisticated apeture for the date at 6 o'clock, allowing even more innovative features to showcase Omega's impressive timepieces.
The Omega Constellation and the Manhattan Skyline
In 2018, the Omega Constellation Manhattan collection launched in honour of the original Omega Constellation Manhattan 1982 design, showcased by some of the reigning stars on the silver screen and runways. The campaign elevated the Constellation collection to the forefront of Omega’s newest launches with feminine elegance and sophisticated desire.
“This new redesign makes the Constellation much more relevant to today’s style and slightly more feminine. I really like just how sleek it is.”
“Shooting together was so lovely. Getting to know the other women and play a little bit is kind of fun.”
“The Constellation is so classic and timeless. This new collection has more than 100 models, so there is definitely one to match everyone’s personality. You can wear it from morning to night, from the beach to the red carpet. You can wear it with anything.”
The Constellation at Michael Spiers
The Swiss horological experts have continued to push boundaries for their timepieces over the years. With intensive testing for the durability and longevity of their watches, Omega have consistently innovated to craft timepieces that impress.
At Michael Spiers, we are proud to offer a wide range of special timepieces from Omega. If you would like to explore more about the world of Omega, we invite you to our showrooms in Truro, Plymouth and Exeter where our friendly teams can help you find a piece that is perfect for you.
