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Omega constellation 168.025
Last updated: June 25, 2025

Brand:
Model Line:
Production Period:
1965-1970
Caliber/s:
Case Width:
34mm
Case Height:
38.5mm
Lug Width:
18mm
Omega constellation 168.025 Description
The Omega Constellation reference 168.025 is a vintage chronometer wristwatch produced primarily between circa 1965 and 1970, representing a key model from Omega’s “Golden Era.” It is highly regarded for its iconic “Pie Pan” dial, a multi-faceted, dodecagonal design, and is typically powered by the Omega Caliber 564, an automatic, chronometer-certified movement known for its precision and quickset date function. Many examples feature a monocoque (“Unishell”) case construction, enhancing water resistance and allowing for a slimmer profile. The 168.025 embodies the luxury and high precision that defined the Constellation line, which was Omega’s flagship collection since its introduction in 1952.
Specifications
Reference Number | 168.025 |
Production Years | c. 1965-1970 |
Primary Caliber | Omega Caliber 564 (Automatic, Chronometer Certified, Quickset Date) |
Case Diameter | Typically 34mm |
Case Material(s) | Stainless Steel, Solid Yellow Gold (14k or 18k), Gold-Capped on Stainless Steel |
Common Dial Style | “Pie Pan” (multi-faceted, dodecagonal) |
Dial Colors | Silver, White (aging to cream/off-white), Champagne; rarer two-tone grey/silver |
Crystal Material | Plexiglass (Acrylic), often with central Omega logo |
Lug Width | 18mm |
Common Case Type | Monocoque / Unishell (front-loading movement) |
Case Back Feature | Observatory Medallion with 8 stars |
Original Water Resistance | 3 bar (30 meters / 100 feet) for Unishell versions. Not guaranteed today. |
Key Details & Variations
Variations
The Omega Constellation 168.025 was offered with several key variations:
- Case Materials:
- Stainless Steel: A common and durable option.
- Solid Yellow Gold: Available in 18k or 14k, representing the luxury tier.
- Gold-Capped on Stainless Steel: A thick layer of gold bonded to a steel base, offering a gold appearance at a more accessible price.
- Dial Styles and Colors:
- “Pie Pan” Dial: The most iconic and sought-after style, featuring a 12-sided, multi-faceted design.
- Common Colors: Silver, white (often aging to cream), and champagne.
- Rare Colors: A “Two Tone Grey and Silvered Pie Pan Dial” has been noted as a rare and sought-after variant.
- Lume: Some dials were non-luminous, while others featured Tritium lume on hands and hour markers (typically indicated by “T SWISS T” or similar on the dial).
- Bracelets: Originally offered on leather straps or various Omega metal bracelets, such as the Ref. 1120/116 mesh Milanese or the No. 11 Ref. 1119 stretch-rivet-link bracelet with 143 end links.
Correct Dial
- “Pie Pan” Design: Characterized by its 12-sided, sloping faceted surface.
- Markings: Applied Omega logo and Constellation star emblem (usually above 6 o’clock or below “Constellation” text). Text includes “OMEGA,” “Automatic,” “Chronometer Officially Certified,” and “Constellation.” “SWISS MADE” or “T SWISS T” (if lumed) at the bottom.
- Hour Markers: Typically applied, faceted baton or index style, often in gold or steel, sometimes with black onyx inlays.
- Date Window: Located at 3 o’clock, often with an applied metal frame and beveled edges.
Correct Hands
- Style: Typically Dauphine hands, matching the dial’s aesthetic.
- Finish: Could be plain, feature black painted sections for contrast, or contain luminous (Tritium) inserts.
- Seconds Hand: Often a sweep center seconds hand, sometimes blued steel.
Correct Case
- Design: Many examples feature a monocoque (“Unishell”) case, meaning the movement is accessed from the front.
- Dimensions: Approx. 34-34.5mm diameter (excluding crown), lug width of 18mm, and thickness around 9.5mm-10.9mm.
- Case Back: Features the iconic Constellation Observatory medallion with 8 stars in relief.
- Crown: Original Omega-signed crown, often multi-sided (e.g., decagonal) or knurled.
Additional Relevant Details
The Omega Constellation 168.025 is predominantly powered by the Omega Caliber 564.
- Type: Automatic, central rotor, chronometer-certified.
- Jewels: 24 jewels.
- Frequency: 19,800 vph (2.75 Hz).
- Power Reserve: Approximately 50 hours.
- Features: Quickset date (operated by repeatedly pulling the crown to the outermost position). It’s advised to operate the quickset when the hour hand is in the lower half of the dial to avoid damage.
- Finish: Distinctive copper-plated (rose gold toned) finish on plates and bridges.
- Production Years (Cal. 564): 1966-1969.
- Note on Cal. 561: While the Cal. 561 is a similar chronometer movement, it lacks the quickset date feature of the Cal. 564. The 168.025 should correctly house the Cal. 564.
The Omega Constellation 168.025 is a highly collectible vintage watch, prized for its “Pie Pan” dial, Caliber 564 movement, and association with Omega’s “Golden Era.”
- Value Factors: Condition (unpolished case, original pristine dial), originality of all components (crown, hands, crystal, bracelet), case material (solid gold commands a premium), and provenance are key.
- Price Range: Varies widely. Auction medians might be around $1,000-$1,150 USD, but dealer prices for excellent examples can range from $1,390 for steel to $7,000+ for prime 18k gold models.
- Serial Number: Check movement serial number for dating (typically 7-8 digits).
- Logos & Markings: Omega logos and text on dial, crown, crystal, movement, and case back medallion must be sharp and period-correct.
- “Pie Pan” Dial Details: Sharp facets, well-executed applied star, and beveled date window.
- Observatory Medallion: Should be well-defined and detailed.
- Movement: Verify genuine Caliber 564 with copper plating and correct markings.
- Avoid “Frankenwatches” and poorly redialed examples.