We have here one of our favourite Omega Constellation models - the 14381. We rarely see a Constellation in this condition and we love the symmetry of the original off white dial, with the cross hair lines producing a target effect. The dial has rare, onyx-filled, rectangular baton markers, chrome markers and Dauphine hour, minute and central seconds hands, give the watch an elevated sense of elegance. The dial is signed 'Omega Automatic Chronometer', with the Omega logo at 12 o'clock and 'Constellation', with the Constellation star at 6 o'clock.
The watch has influences from the 1950s along with some new design influences of the 1960s, which complement the sleek elegance of the Constellation! The 34.5mm stainless steel, screw-back case is a comfortable wear and the case back has the Geneva Observatory surrounded by eight stars - the official motif of the Constellation. Inside is the automatic, chronometer tested and officially certified, Omega caliber 551, fully serviced by us and running strongly. We've kept this watch in it's original condition and on it's original, stainless steel, early brick link bracelet, but it looks great on leather, too!
Founded by Louis Brandt in 1848, Omega started out as La Generale Watch Co., an unassuming, but international business. It wasn't until 1885, when the company had been taken over by Louis' sons, that the first mass-produced caliber, the Labrador, was released. By 1903, the company had renamed itself Omega and only two years later were they the official timekeepers at many sporting events across Switzerland. Omega stepped onto an international stage in 1932 as the official timekeepers at the Olympic Games in Los Angeles, the first of over 20 Olympic Games. Omega were one of the 12 companies, now known as the Dirty Dozen, commissioned to produce watches for the British Military during the Second World War. One of Omega's most iconic watches, the Seamaster, was introduced in 1948 to celebrate their 100th anniversary. Over 70 years later, it is still one of Omega's best selling watches. Omega made headlines in 1962 when Wally Schirra wore the Speedmaster as part of NASA's first crewed spaceflight programme, making the Speedmaster the first watch to enter space. It was only a few years before the Speedmaster became the official chronograph for the American space missions and was worn by Buzz Aldrin as well as the Apollo 13 crew. Omega are still involved with NASA and have been instrumental in creating vital pieces of equipment for space exploration. Omega's reputation continued to soar in the 1990s with the Omega Seamaster being worn by many celebrities and A listers.
All Omega Constellations are 'Chronometer Officially Certified' watches, which means that they are tested to the highest possible level. Omega have called it "the most distinguished-title a watch may carry." In order to achieve this title, each of the 153 essential components that make up these watches undergo 360-hour accuracy and reliability tests and inspections.
This watch comes fully serviced by our on-site workshop and with a 12 month, non-waterproof service cover.
What we think
We love Omega and we especially love Omega Constellations! The pinnacle of the Omega range, officially certified. The perfect watch for him and her and a must have in any watch collection. If you would prefer, we can polish the watch for you - we have given the watch a very light polish as collectors tend to prefer the sharpness and original condition. It is rare that we find a Constellation in such a good condition as this and it was definitely very hard not keeping this watch for ourselves! Check out some other Constellation models past and present HERE
Spec Stuff
Serial : 1796****
Reference : 14381
Movement : Cal. 551, 24 Jewels Age : 1951/1960 Specific Age : 1959 Case Size : 34.5mm Case Thickness : 11mm Lug to Lug : 42mm Lugs :18mm Condition : Pre-Owned Box & Papers : No Case Material :Stainless Steel Service History : 12-Months NON-Waterproof Warranty
1959 Omega Constellation with Stunning Cross-Hair onyx Model 14381 on brick link Bracelet
