THE ESSENTIALS

MAKE: OMEGA
MODEL: 2652-5
YEAR: 1952
BOX/PAPERS: NO/NO
CASE DIAMETER: 34mm
CASE MATERIAL: STAINLESS STEEL
BRACELET MATERIAL: STAINLESS STEEL
MOVEMENT: AUTOMATIC

The Omega Constellation range was, in essence, Omega’s answer to the Datejust. Originally released in 1948 as the limited-production Centenary Chronometer, it proved so popular that Omega decided to continue its production. By 1952, Omega launched a full collection of automatic chronometer watches, which became the Constellation as we know it today.

The watch we have here, ref. 2652-5, dates back to 1952 and houses the first chronometer-rated movement in the Constellation line—the cal. 354. It features the famous "bumper" movement, where the rotor bounces back and forth between two springs to wind the movement.

This example is in incredible condition. The dial is spotless, while the gold markers show surface oxidation—exactly what you’d expect after 70 or so years. The dauphine hands still retain their original radium lume inlay. The case remains in superb shape with minimal signs of polishing. The original 1036/12 bead of rice bracelet is present and fits up to a 19 cm wrist.

The movement came to us in great health and is running at +5 s/d, 245 amps, with a beat error of 0.1 ms. These make a fantastic alternative to an early Datejust—perfect for both casual and formal wear.