The Watch Time Forgot — Until Now
In 1982, Omega redesigned the Constellation with four distinctive “griffes” (claws) on the bezel at 3, 6, 9, and 12 o’clock. Originally functional — they secured the sapphire crystal to the mono-block case — these claws became the Constellation’s visual signature and earned the updated design its nickname: the “Manhattan,” after the skyscraper-like vertical lines the claws create on the bezel.
For decades, the Constellation Manhattan was overshadowed by the Seamaster and Speedmaster. But Omega’s 2020 redesign gave it METAS Master Chronometer certification, a slimmer case, and striking new dial textures — and suddenly, collectors are paying attention.
The 2020 Redesign: What Changed
Omega overhauled the Manhattan with:
- Slimmer case: 39mm × 11.3mm (men’s) — significantly thinner than the previous generation, improving wearability under cuffs
- Pie-pan dial: A concave center section with a raised outer ring — reviving a beloved 1960s Constellation design element. Available in blue, green, silver, black, and champagne
- Movement: Caliber 8800 or 8801 (METAS Master Chronometer, 55-hour reserve, 15,000 gauss magnetic resistance)
- Integrated bracelet: A fully brushed bracelet that flows from the case without separate lugs — a design language similar to the Royal Oak and Nautilus
- Refined claws: Smaller, more proportionate griffes that retain the Constellation identity without overwhelming the dial
Current References
Constellation Co-Axial Master Chronometer 39mm (131.10.39.20.03.001 — Blue)
- Case: 39mm × 11.3mm, steel
- Movement: Caliber 8800 (automatic, co-axial, 55-hour reserve, METAS)
- Dial: Blue pie-pan with applied star at 6 o’clock
- Crystal: Sapphire, domed, AR-coated
- WR: 50m
- Bracelet: Integrated steel
- Retail: ~$6,300
Constellation 41mm (131.10.41.21.01.001 — Black)
A larger variant for those who prefer more wrist presence. Same movement, same finishing, just 2mm wider and slightly thicker (12.3mm). Retail: ~$6,500.
Constellation Two-Tone (Gold + Steel)
The classic Constellation look: Sedna Gold (Omega’s proprietary rose gold alloy) bezel and claws on a steel case and bracelet. The two-tone Constellation has been a staple since the 1980s. Retail: ~$9,200.
The Constellation vs the Competition
| Watch | Size | Movement | Reserve | Retail |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Omega Constellation 39mm | 39mm | Cal. 8800 (METAS) | 55h | $6,300 |
| Rolex Datejust 36 | 36mm | Cal. 3235 | 70h | $8,250 |
| Tudor Royal 41 | 41mm | Cal. T601 | 70h | $2,750 |
| Cartier Santos Medium | 35mm | Cal. 1847 MC | 40h | $7,050 |
| TAG Heuer Carrera 39mm | 39mm | Cal. 5 | 38h | $3,250 |
The Constellation offers METAS Master Chronometer certification (which no competitor on this list matches), an integrated bracelet design, and the unique claw-motif identity. At $6,300, it’s positioned between the Tudor Royal ($2,750) and Rolex Datejust ($8,250) — offering arguably the best movement technology of the three at the middle price point.
Why the Constellation Is Underrated
Three reasons:
- Brand perception: Omega is primarily associated with the Speedmaster (space) and Seamaster (James Bond). The Constellation lacks a pop-culture hook.
- Design unfamiliarity: The claws divide opinion. People who don’t know the Constellation often find them unusual; once they understand the history, appreciation follows.
- Marketing spend: Omega invests most of its marketing budget in the Speedmaster and Seamaster. The Constellation gets less visibility despite being Omega’s longest-running collection (since 1952).
This underrated status is actually an advantage for buyers: the Constellation depreciates 20-30% from retail on the secondary market, meaning you can buy a METAS-certified, co-axial movement luxury watch for $4,200-$4,800 pre-owned. That’s extraordinary value.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Constellation a dress watch or a sports watch?
It’s a luxury daily watch — the same category as the Rolex Datejust. Dressier than a Seamaster but sportier than a Cartier Tank. The 50m water resistance handles daily life (rain, handwashing) but not swimming or diving.
39mm or 41mm Constellation?
The 39mm is the collector’s choice — it’s closer to vintage Constellation proportions and wears more elegantly under cuffs. The 41mm suits larger wrists (7.5″+) and those who prefer a more commanding presence. The 39mm outsells the 41mm in most markets.
What does the star at 6 o’clock mean?
The applied star at 6 o’clock has been a Constellation signature since the 1950s. It represents the Geneva Observatory, where Omega chronometers set accuracy records in the 1950s and 60s — more observatory chronometry records than any other brand. The star is a badge of precision heritage.
Do you carry Constellation superclones?
Browse our Omega collection at DR.WATCH for Constellation and other references. Swiss automatic movements, the signature claw design, and pie-pan dial textures. Free worldwide shipping + 1-year warranty.
