One of the most popular watches in Omega’s catalog is undoubtedly the Constellation, with its “claw” branding at 3 and 9 o’clock. It’s a feature that polarizes collectors in the same way that many other aspects of the Constellation do, and not its iconic status can be denied. But what is it about this watch that has made it so attractive to collectors over the decades?
Throughout the ages, Harvest of the Omega Constellation it has evolved into many different variations. From the early ‘pie-pan’ numbers to the more modern ‘Globemaster’ models, it has come a long way. It’s hard not to get lost in the reference jungle that is Constellation; since each era has produced something slightly different, it can be easy to lose sight of some of its best attributes. The most sought-after vintage Constellations belong to the ‘Pie-Pan’ era, which lasted approximately 20 years after the model was first introduced in 1952. These examples boast beautiful ornate lugs, 10-sided crowns and beautiful copper-colored movements. Case design was slightly more angular in the 1960s, with the rounded cases of earlier models giving way to wider styles. These larger models also saw the introduction of flat dials and gold and onyx baton hour markers. In the 1970s, Omega was ready to embrace the quartz movement. This was a tumultuous time for the Swiss watch industry, as traditional mechanical chronometer-class watches were being phased out, bankrupting many old brands and making room for new players. Omega quickly adapted to Constellation, introducing three lines of Constellation quartz watches at the 1970 Basel Fair. From there, the series continued to grow in popularity until the mid-1980s, when the Globemaster became its own distinctly designed line. . The Globemaster’s retro ’60s-inspired design helped separate it from the Constellation lineup, which had become a bit cluttered with features like flared bezels and pan dials. Today, the Omega constellation has a surprisingly modern look, despite its glorious past. The “claws” at 3 o’clock and o’clock are now purely decorative and serve to highlight the sapphire crystal on the bezel. The stainless steel models are a great budget option for those not looking to spend that much on an Omega. The range also features some solid gold options for those looking to make an investment in their collection. Constellation has always been a popular choice for collectors, but it has never been more coveted than now. The combination of its timeless beauty and its relative affordability makes it a great addition to any watch collection. Just make sure you do your homework before jumping in and beware of fakes! Fortunately, there are many reliable dealers out there to help you find your perfect watch.
