Omega Constellation: A Collector's Journey Through Vintage References

Dr No · 2020-03-02T11:39:18Z

Explore the iconic Omega Constellation with collector Dr No, featuring rare vintage models like the 'Black Connie' Ref. 2852 and community insights on movements and design.

Dr No, a long-time collector, opens a captivating discussion on the Omega Constellation, showcasing three exquisite examples from his personal collection. His post not only highlights the aesthetic appeal and historical significance of these vintage pieces but also delves into the practicalities of ownership, such as timekeeping accuracy. This thread invites fellow enthusiasts to share their own Constellations, fostering a rich exchange of insights and appreciation for this iconic Omega reference.

. . . a Connie?

I've owned this '57 ref 2852 aka Black Connie for twelve years. If only it kept as good time as it looks . . . it's never run particularly well. My current watchmaker regulated it to ~ +15 sec/day, which was an improvement but still not satisfactory. Might have to bite the bullet and ask for an overhaul and a thorough parts inspection. Perhaps there's a marginally worn wheel or pinion that's contributing to its inability to keep good time.

Let's see the Constellations in your collections. The other two in mine are a '58 2852 decked in white gold . . .

. . . and a '60 2943 in rose.

Cordially,

Art

Key Points from the Discussion

The 'Black Connie' with its honeycomb and black dial is an exceptionally rare and sought-after Omega Constellation, not easily found in the market.
Dr No's 'Black Connie' has a unique provenance, having been acquired through a trade for an Omega Seamaster Mark II with another collector, Phil Cooper, after years of admiration.
The Omega Constellation's 'dog legs' lugs and 'pie-pan' dials are considered signature design elements that set it apart, with some collectors believing no other brand executed them as well.
Omega's Caliber 56x movements found in Constellations are highly regarded for their precision and dependability, often outperforming contemporary Rolex Caliber 15xx movements from the same era.
Collectors shared diverse examples of Constellations, including an 18K gold model, a C-shape case, a Dennison-cased variant, and a pie-pan dial, demonstrating the variety within the reference.
One contributor noted that a 15-second daily deviation might be acceptable for a watch not worn daily, acknowledging the desire for better performance from a Constellation.
The original author's 'Black Connie' is a 1957 Ref. 2852, while another black dial Constellation shared in the thread is a later model, likely with a Caliber 561 movement, indicating variations in reference numbers and movements for similar aesthetics.

The Discussion

amanico

Mar 2, 2020

Aaaaah, this Black Connie! You know how much I like yours, mon ami. [nt]

Dr No

Mar 2, 2020

You must find one just like her, Nicolas. I've seen precisely one other ref 2852 . . .

. . . identically specified - steel case, black engraved dial with rose gold hands and markers. Seen all sorts of combinations, but only two altogether like mine.

amanico

Mar 2, 2020

Yours is so special. [nt]

Subexplorer

Mar 2, 2020

Your black Connie is a true beauty. As you well say, some component on movement can be the culprit of no being able to adjust it as you wish. Though...

... if you rotate it often and do not wear this watch for more than one or two days I wouldn´t mind much about a 15 seconds a day difference. Yes, yes, I know... we wish a Connie working as a Connie should! Lol. I feel Constellations are among the most beautiful models made by Omega in the past. Your example is such an special one: honey comb and black dial and indexes to die for. Not an easy Connie to find! Of course very nice the other two as well. Here I share mine. I had some kind of fixatio

Dr No

Mar 2, 2020

A black Connie ? . . .

. . . my gosh, Abel, where have you been hiding this rare jewel!! All of yours are delectable, but the black dial . . . oh, my. Reference number? Not a 2943, as that should have 'Calendar' on the dial, as far as I know. Should be a later model with a cal 561 movement. Amazed, Art

Subexplorer

Mar 3, 2020

Thank you so much dear Art! A big compliment coming from you. I will check my files on this one. I don´t remember the facts on this piece which I own since many years now.

I think I own a two more Connies which I need to find their pictures. I love the model and there are so many variants to hunt! Thank you again my dear friend! Abel

Omega Constellation: A Collector's Journey Through Vintage References

Key Points from the Discussion

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