Omega Constellation 168.018

The Omega Constellation reference 168.018, produced primarily between 1967 and 1971, is a significant model within Omega’s prestigious Constellation line, which dates back to 1952. This reference is a key example of the “C-Case” design era, an aesthetic shift often attributed to the renowned designer Gérald Genta, which modernized the collection while maintaining its core values of precision and elegance. Powered by the chronometer-certified Omega Caliber 564 automatic movement, the 168.018 is celebrated for its reliability and accuracy. It was offered in various materials, including stainless steel, gold-capped steel, and solid gold, with a diverse array of dial colors and textures, making it a rich area for collectors. The iconic Constellation observatory medallion on the case back symbolizes Omega’s numerous chronometry awards and underscores the model’s heritage of precision.  

Specifications

Key Details & Variations

Case Analysis

The Omega Constellation 168.018 is defined by its “C-Case” or “C-Type” profile, a design introduced in 1964 and often attributed to Gérald Genta. This shape offered a more modern and streamlined look compared to earlier Constellations.  

• Materials: Available in stainless steel (ST 168.018 or ST 168.0018) , gold-capped stainless steel , and solid 14k or 18k gold (typically yellow, with some 18k gold cases manufactured by Serva SA).  
• Dimensions: Typically 35mm in diameter (excluding crown), with a lug-to-lug distance of about 40mm, and a lug width of 19mm. Thickness is around 10-12mm.  
• Finishing: Original cases featured a mix of brushed and polished surfaces. For example, an 18ct gold version might have a satin brushed sunburst finish on the bezel and polished lug facets. Unpolished cases retaining these original finishes are highly valued.  
• Case Back: A screw-in case back is standard, adorned with the iconic Constellation Observatory medallion – an observatory cupola surrounded by eight stars, symbolizing Omega’s chronometry awards. The medallion’s execution could vary with case material.  

Dial Variations

The 168.018 offered a wide array of dial options:

• Colors: Common colors included silver and white (often with satin or sunburst finishes) , and champagne or gold-toned dials (especially with gold cases). Black dials are rarer and highly sought after , while grey and mother-of-pearl were also possibilities.  
• Textures: “Linen dials” with a woven pattern and “starburst” or sunray brushed finishes were popular. Other subtle textures like “frosty” finishes were also seen in the C-Case era.  
• Markers (Indices): Applied metal (gold or steel) baton-style hour markers were typical. A distinctive and desirable feature was the inclusion of black onyx inlays within the markers, often matched in the hands. Some markers are described as “door-stop” shaped. Tritium lume dots were often present at the outer edge of the markers.  
• Markings: Authentic dials feature an applied metal Omega logo (Ω), printed “OMEGA,” “AUTOMATIC,” and “CHRONOMETER OFFICIALLY CERTIFIED” text, an applied Constellation star (★) above 6 o’clock, and the “Constellation” script above the star. “SWISS MADE” or “T SWISS MADE T” (if tritium lumed) is found at the bottom.  

Hands and Crystal

• Hands: Dauphine or baton/stick hands were common, often with black painted center lines or tritium luminous inserts to match the hour markers.  
• Crystal: Acrylic (Plexiglass) was standard. Original Omega crystals often feature a tiny, centrally embossed Omega logo (Ω). Some crystals for the 168.018 included an integrated date magnifier (cyclops), while others did not. Crystals were often fitted with a metal tension ring matching the case color.  

Notable Variants

• Case Materials: Stainless steel, gold-capped, solid 14k gold, solid 18k gold.  
• Dial Types: Wide range of colors (silver, white, champagne, black, grey, mother-of-pearl) and textures (linen, starburst, frosty).  
• Markers: Standard applied batons, or batons with onyx inlays.  

Additional Relevant Details

Historical Context and Design Evolution

The Omega Constellation collection, launched in 1952, was Omega’s premier line of chronometer-certified wristwatches, predating the professional fame of the Seamaster and Speedmaster. It built upon the success of the 1948 “Centenary” model, Omega’s first automatic chronometer. The Constellation was the first watch collection where every model was an officially certified chronometer.  

The “C-Case” design, introduced in 1964 and exemplified by the 168.018, marked a significant aesthetic shift towards a more modern, streamlined look, often attributed to Gérald Genta. This design era lasted into the late 1970s and represented Omega’s response to evolving design trends.  

The iconic Observatory medallion on the case back, featuring an observatory cupola and eight stars, symbolizes Omega’s eight major precision records at observatory trials and has been a hallmark of the Constellation since its inception.  

The reference 168.018 was primarily produced and marketed from 1967 to 1971, placing it in a transformative period for watch design.  

Market Insights and Collectibility

The value of a Constellation 168.018 is influenced by condition (unpolished cases and original dials are prized), originality of all parts, case material (solid gold commands a premium), dial rarity (black or mother-of-pearl are less common), movement condition, and the presence of original accessories like box, papers, or original “Beads of Rice” bracelets (e.g., Ref. 1068 with 555 end links). Prices can range from around $790-$1,500 for steel models to over €2,250 for gold/steel versions with accessories. The C-Case Constellation is recognized for its Genta-associated design and offers a relatively accessible entry into high-quality vintage Omega chronometers.  

Vintage Perspective: Advertising and Catalogs

Omega advertisements from the 1960s emphasized the Constellation’s precision, luxury, and reliability, often highlighting its chronometer certification. Omega’s official vintage database provides key specifications for references like the ST 168.0018, confirming production years, case details, movement, and typical strap pairings, serving as an authoritative resource for collectors.  

Conclusions

The Omega Constellation 168.018 is a distinguished vintage watch that represents a key period of Omega’s design and chronometric leadership. Its Genta-linked C-Case, reliable Caliber 564 chronometer movement, and variety of executions make it a compelling and collectible piece. For enthusiasts valuing historical significance, mechanical quality, and timeless style, the 168.018 remains an excellent choice.