When one looks at this particular Omega Constellation, they are not merely observing a timepiece. We are, of course, talking about the celebrated Manhattan line, whose triumph helped redefine the concept of sporty luxury throughout the 1980s and 1990s.
A Design that Broke the Mould: The ‘Claws’
The feature that immediately captures the eye is the unmistakable set of ‘claws’ (griffes) that grip the yellow gold bezel, positioned at 3 and 9 o’clock. When they were introduced in 1982, their function was primarily technical: they ensured better water resistance by holding the sapphire crystal firmly pressed against the case. Over time, these claws have become the Constellation’s most iconic visual hallmark, a design stroke that gives the watch an almost sculptural quality,
The Engine of Excellence: Certified Precision
References such as the Ref. 168.0075 are powered by the Omega Calibre 1111 (or its close sibling, the 1120). This is no ordinary calibre; it is based on the highly reliable ETA 2892-A2 architecture, but extensively personalised and, crucially, certified as a Chronometer (COSC). The inscription on the dial, Chronometer Automatic, is more than just a luxury status symbol: it is the official guarantee that the movement has passed stringent precision tests across various positions and temperatures, testifying to its superior dependability, with a power reserve of around 42 hours.
Details that Narrate a History of Accuracy
Every Constellation carries a profound legacy. Unlike the older models, which featured a solid caseback with the iconic embossed Observatory medallion, this generation, including many 168.0075 variants, offered a transparent sapphire caseback. This was a deliberate choice by Omega, a proud declaration that their mechanical movements were a technical masterpiece worthy of display, signifying the era's shift back toward visible mechanics.
A Neo-Vintage Icon
The Constellation we admire today, with its classic dimensions (around 35–36 mm) and its perfectly judged balance between steel and yellow gold, is a magnificent example of a ‘neo-vintage’ watch. It is an elegant choice for anyone seeking a piece with an unmistakable design, sophisticated mechanics, and a rich history of triumph—a true bridge between traditional high watchmaking and modern aesthetics.