Omega Constellation ref. 2852 16SC, Silver 'Pie Pan' Dial

Dealer description — Oliver & Clarke

Omega is undeniably one of the most historically important timepiece manufactures of all time. In fact, the Speedmaster is probably the most important wrist watch of all time. As a result, the Speedmaster casts a massive shadow over all of its siblings.... even over firmly planted models like the Seamaster and Constellation ranges. The resulting effect is double sided: many vintage Omegas, we feel are incredibly undervalued in the market as it exists today, with the other side of that being that hidden gems are shocking attainable. The Constellation range in particular, remain relative bargains when compared to the competition. Introduced in 1952, the Constellation was inspired by a limited-edition timepiece created to celebrate the brand's centennial in 1948, the Century. The remarkable success of that commemorative model prompted Omega to make it a permanent addition to the catalog. In fact, it would become the flagship model, using top-grade automatic movements, an elegant case design finished to a high-standard, and dials that are as stunning as they are dynamic. Omega even chose the dome of the Geneva Observatory as the Constellation's defining emblem, which generally can be found in medallion form set within the caseback. Of the many variations of the Constellation though the years, the most celebrated are those that feature the pie-pan dials from the 1950s and 60s. Apart from the obvious depth the pie-pan effect creates, these watches boast beautiful marker variations and dial details. The Ref. 2852 that we have here is a stainless steel variant dating to circa 1958 and in many ways is exactly what comes to mind when you hear 'Omega Constellation.' It features an ornate 34.5mm case with thick, sculpted lugs, a signed crown, and a snapback caseback with the aforementioned medallion. The dial is silver in color with puts the 'pie pan' dials of 4-digit Rolex models to shame, with stunning applied 'arrowhead' indices, a 'crossahair' dividing the dial into quarters, and a dauphine handset to tie it all together. This particular piece even comes with its original crystal and is powered by Omega's Calibre 505 automatic-winding movement. These early Constellations, with their sizing, variety of materials and dial configurations, and in this case, condition, are undeniable undervalued. These are a masterwork of design and execution and represent an era of Omega where they were throwing punches with the best of them. Those that know, know.