Omega Constellation 14381

The Omega Constellation reference 14381 is a classic mid-century chronometer wristwatch produced in the late 1950s through the early 1960s. It belongs to the first generation of Constellation models featuring the famous “pie-pan” dial and precise chronometer movements. The 14381 was offered in a variety of high-quality materials and dial designs, ranging from solid 18k gold to stainless steel, and even two-tone gold-capped versions. Its thin yet sturdy 34mm round case (wide) with smooth bezel and distinctive Observatory medallion on the case back reflects Omega’s emphasis on precision and elegance. As a fully certified chronometer, the 14381 carried “OMEGA Automatic Chronometer Officially Certified Constellation” text on the dial, underscoring its high-end status in Omega’s lineup. Notably, some ultra-luxury “De Luxe” editions of the 14381 were made with entirely 18k gold case, dial, and hands – a rare variant prized by collectors.

Early examples (circa 1959–1960) typically feature the pie-pan style dial (a raised fluted edge and recessed center), often in a silvery or champagne tone, sometimes with a subtle crosshair pattern. Later variants introduced around 1961–1962 added more dial textures, including a pronounced crosshair motif. Unique dial treatments included applied baton indices (in yellow, white or rose gold tone) with black inlays or onyx inserts for contrast, and small luminous markers at each hour. Colors ranged from classic silver/white/champagne to special black onyx accents. The hands were generally polished dauphine or long pencil-style batons, often filled or outlined with black or luminous paint to match the indices. A sharp thin seconds hand typically swept the dial, nearly reaching the minute track. The original Omega logo (an applied metal Ω) and the Constellation script with its tiny star appear on the dial above the 6 o’clock “Swiss Made” signature.

Inside the 14381 beats an automatic chronometer movement. Most known examples use the Omega Caliber 551 (24-jewel, 19800 A/h, no-date automatic), sometimes later succeeded by the Cal. 561 as production continued into the early 1960s. Each movement was finely regulated and certified to chronometer standards, fitting the Constellation’s reputation for timekeeping accuracy. The screw-down case back carries the raised Constellation Observatory medallion with eight stars, symbolizing Omega’s precision records. The signed crown (often a star or Omega logo) and acrylic crystal complete the vintage design.

Among collectors, the 14381 is regarded as a high-quality dress chronometer with an elegant yet sporty character. Its classic pie-pan dial is highly admired, and the rarer solid-gold De Luxe editions and unique onyx-dial variants are particularly prized. The reference is less common than more mass-produced Constellations of the era, so well-preserved examples command interest. Modern enthusiasts appreciate the 14381 for its crisp lines and historical charm: however, heavy polishing over the years can soften the case edges (especially on gold-capped models) and the medallion can wear, so original, unpolished pieces are most valued.

Key Technical Details:

• Production late 1950s–early 1960s (c.1959–1963)
• Case size: ~34–35 mm diameter (men’s model), round with smooth bezel
• Case materials: Stainless steel; solid 18k gold (yellow, white or rose gold); 14k gold (some variants); two-tone gold-on-steel (gold-capped cases)
• Dial styles: Pie-pan shape (concave fluted edge); some with crosshair texture; colors mainly silver/champagne/white, with occasional black accents (onyx inserts)
• Hour markers: Applied baton indices (gold-tone with black or onyx infill in some); small luminous dots or strips beside markers
• Hands: Polished dauphine or slender baton hands, often with black fill or luminous sections; thin seconds hand to edge of dial
• Crystal: Acrylic (hesalite) with inward-slope matching pie-pan dial
• Movement: Omega Cal. 551 (automatic, 24 jewels, no-date, chronometer-certified); later models may have Cal. 561 (24 jewel)
• Certification: Officially chronometer tested (dial reads “Officially Certified”); Observatory logo on caseback (8 stars)
• Bracelet/Strap: Originally on leather strap or beads-of-rice steel bracelet (varied by market); fixed straight lugs
• Other: Screw-in caseback; signed Omega crown and dial logo; “Constellation” script with star motif on dial

Each variation retains the Constellation signature details: a dial-printed Omega logo and “Automatic Chronometer Officially Certified,” and the tiny Constellation star above “Swiss Made.” The caseback on all versions carries the embossed observatory emblem.

In sum, the Omega Constellation 14381 is a refined vintage chronometer known for its pie-pan dial and high-grade finishing. Its range of precious-metal cases and distinctive dial options make it an attractive collector’s watch. Well-maintained examples showcase Omega’s watchmaking excellence of that era and remain coveted by enthusiasts for their elegance and accuracy.