Omega Constellation 167.005

The Omega Constellation reference 167.005 is a vintage timepiece produced from 1962 to 1970. It holds a significant place in Omega’s history, particularly within the renowned “Pie Pan” era of the Constellation line. This model was part of Omega’s flagship series of chronometer-certified automatic dress watches, embodying the brand’s dedication to high-performance timepieces and sophisticated craftsmanship, making it highly sought after by collectors.  

Specifications

Key Details & Variations

Variations

The reference 167.005 included several notable variations:

• Grand Luxe (.002): Designated as a “Grand Luxe” model, these versions were typically made of solid gold and often featured integrated gold bracelets, representing the higher end of the Constellation line.  
• Short Lug (.004): The.004 sub-reference of 167.005 is known as a “Short Lug” variant, though specific details comparing it to the standard “dog leg” lug are not extensively covered.  
• Gold-Capped (.010 GP): Gold-capped stainless steel versions were also produced, offering the appearance of gold at a more accessible price point. (Note: The previous report refers to this as “Gold-Capped Stainless Steel” under Case Materials).  

Correct Dial

The Omega Constellation 167.005 is most famous for its “Pie Pan” dial, named for its resemblance to an inverted pie tin due to its twelve-faceted, sloping outer edge.  

• Dial Types:
  • Pie Pan Dial: This is the most iconic dial for the 167.005, featuring a multi-faceted design. The dial surface could have a sunburst or grained finish.  
  • Domed Dial: Some models featured a domed dial as an alternative to the pie-pan.  
  • Flat Dial: While the pie-pan was prevalent, flat dials were also available for Constellation models during this era.  
• Dial Colors and Markers:
  • Colors: Common dial colors included silver, white, and champagne.  
  • Hour Markers: Applied hour markers were typical, often in gold or steel, and could be simple batons or feature onyx inlays. Luminous dots were sometimes present above the markers.  
  • Signatures: Dials were signed with the Omega logo, “Omega Automatic Chronometer Officially Certified,” and “Constellation” with an applied star.  

Correct Hands

“Dauphine” style hands were commonly used for the 167.005, sometimes with luminous or black paint inserts.  

Correct Case

• Lug Design: A defining characteristic of the reference 167.005 is its “dog leg” lugs. This design, often attributed to the renowned watch designer Gérald Genta, features angular, stepped lugs that contribute to the watch’s distinctive and elegant profile. These lugs are also sometimes referred to as “lyre” lugs, though “dog leg” is the more common term for this specific shape on the Constellation.  
• Crown and Crystal: The original crown for the 167.005 was typically signed with the Omega logo and could be decagonal (10-sided) or octagonal in shape. The crystal was made of acrylic and often featured a tiny, almost invisible Omega logo in the center.  
• Case Back: The case back of the Constellation 167.005 is a screw-down type and famously features an embossed medallion of the Geneva Observatory surrounded by eight stars. These eight stars represent Omega’s eight chronometry records set at observatory trials.  

Movement Details (Omega Caliber 551)

The Omega Constellation 167.005 is powered by the Omega Caliber 551.  

• Type: Automatic, chronometer-certified.  
• Jewels: 24 jewels.  
• Frequency: 19,800 beats per hour (BPH).  
• Power Reserve: Approximately 50 hours.  
• Features: Sweep second hand, Incabloc shock protection. This movement does not feature a date complication, contributing to the symmetrical dial design of the 167.005.  
• Historical Note: The Caliber 551 was part of a record-breaking run of 100,000 Omega movements that met chronometer standards twice as high as normally required. It was produced between 1958 and 1969.  

Bracelet Options

The Omega Constellation 167.005 was offered with various strap and bracelet options:

• Leather Straps: A common option, often paired with an Omega-signed pin buckle.  
• Metal Bracelets:
  • Beads of Rice Bracelet: This was a popular and iconic choice. References for Beads of Rice bracelets compatible with the 167.005 include the No. 12 (with 70 end links) and the 1037 (with 70 end links). Aftermarket options are also available.  
  • Other Metal Bracelets: While the Omega Vintage Database lists “Leather” for some gold-capped versions like the CD 167.0005, other metal bracelets were certainly available for steel and solid gold models.  

Additional Information

The Omega Constellation 167.005 is a highly collectible vintage watch. Its value is influenced by factors such as case material (solid gold and gold-capped versions generally command higher prices), dial condition and variation (Pie Pan dials, especially rare configurations, are more sought after), originality of parts (crown, crystal, bracelet), and overall condition. The “Grand Luxe” versions are particularly rare and valuable.  

The Omega Constellation 167.005 represents a significant period in Omega’s watchmaking history, showcasing the brand’s commitment to precision, elegance, and robust design. Its iconic “Pie Pan” dial, reliable Caliber 551 movement, and distinctive “dog leg” lugs make it a cherished model among vintage watch enthusiasts and collectors.