The Omega Constellation is an iconic luxury timepiece. It’s a very popular watch, so, unsurprisingly, we see many of these in our workshop, as well as many Omega Speedmaster watches. Launched in 1952, it became one of Omega’s flagship collections, recognised for its distinctive pie-pan style dials, which later evolved into a range of other dial designs. The Constellation is best known for the “claws”, found at 3 and 9 o’clock, a feature introduced in the 1980s and found in both stainless steel and gold depending on the exact model.
Evaluating the Omega Constellation’s Wear and Performance
On arrival, our client’s watch was working, though the timekeeping was poor. There was plenty of general wear including scuffs and scratches all over the case and bracelet.
Inspection of the movement revealed the usual dried oils and greases, as is common when a watch requires a service. This Omega Constellation is powered by the Omega calibre 1120 movement – an automatic mechanical watch movement of excellent quality. This is a modified version of the ETA 2892A2 – a movement produced by ETA, one of the top watch movement manufacturers. The modifications are designed to improve performance, with 23 jewels and a three-arm Glucydur balance amongst the modifications made to the base movement.
“Precision is at the heart of every Omega timepiece. Our expert repairs restore both function and beauty, returning your watch to its original brilliance.”
Signs of Previous Repairs and Component Wear
This particular movement has clearly needed watch repair in its history, as we can see signs of previous disassembly, notably where the incorrect screwdriver size has been used, so the edge of the screwdriver ends up touching and marking the plate. This does not cause a functional issue, but nevertheless, it is undesirable and should obviously be avoided. We also note the train wheel bridge has been replaced at some point, and the reversing wheel is almost completely worn through.
Servicing and Restoring the Movement and Case
To repair the watch it is fully disassembled and each part inspected, with defective components replaced. The disassembled movement is run through our specialist watch movement cleaning machine, while the case and bracelet are cleaned in a separate ultrasonic cleaner. After cleaning, the movement is carefully reassembled and oiled with the replacement parts fitted.
Once cased up we fine-tune the timekeeping to make sure the watch is as accurate as it can be. As this model is chronometer rated it is very accurate – when new it went through a series of strict tests to ensure excellent timekeeping accuracy. We always endeavour to get timekeeping as accurate as we can and various factors can affect this, including the calibre of the movement, age and condition of the watch.
All that’s left is to thoroughly test this excellent Omega Constellation watch before it is ready to return to our client.
Summary
At W.E. Clark Watch Repairs, we specialise in restoring luxury timepieces like the iconic Omega Constellation. This particular model, powered by the high-quality Omega calibre 1120 movement, arrived in our workshop with poor timekeeping, visible wear, and signs of previous repairs. Our meticulous process involved a full disassembly, deep cleaning using specialist equipment, and the replacement of worn components. Once reassembled, we fine-tuned the movement to ensure exceptional accuracy. As trusted experts in horology, we take pride in delivering precision restoration, maintaining the integrity and performance of every watch we service.
Looking to Have Your Omega Constellation Serviced?
At W.E. Clark Watch Repairs, we specialise in restoring modern and vintage timepieces. Whether your Omega needs a full service, precision tuning, or expert repairs, our master watchmakers are here to help.
Take advantage of our Royal Mail Special Delivery FREEPOST service—your watch is fully insured for up to £20,000 throughout its entire journey, from the moment it leaves your hands to when it is safely returned.
