Saturday 20 October 2012

Omega Ultra-Thin Constellation from the early 70's.  

Automatic Calibre 711 Movement.


This is my second vintage Omega I acquired (the first was a 50's Seamaster (non-quickset)).

While the ultra-thins were around between the 1960's to the late 70's, this ultra-thin Constellations cal. 711s were issued between 1974-1975. Constellations were dress watches, naturally precious metals and stones were dominant in this Omega range. What is interesting with this Constellation is that this came from the only stainless steel range in the limited run cal. 711s (the more reason why I am keeping this :D). No doubt this model is not a limited edition series, but as this range did not last long, it is hard to come by.

Thin watches were the trend during that glory days of the 60's. The idea of a bulky wrist watch was not welcomed in the high society social circles. While you could get away with a Panerai under your tuxedo sleeve today, back then it was a no-no.

The watch did not scream for attention when you wear it, but the weight and feel was solid. It did not feel cheap despite the size.

The customary observation seal can be seen clearly in the picture referring to the origin of its name.


The movement is a solid automatic. It immediately starts to beat correctly as soon as you pick it up, no waiting-for-it-to-wind for it to give a reliable heartbeat. That was one of the features that I immediately noticed. The calibre 711 had also been used in the De Ville range before, so the reliability of the movement had already been proven before it was planted into this Connie.


What kept me from 'cycling' this piece is that it is not easy to get a complete stainless steel Omega Constellation. Finding a non-gold based Connie is not easy. This works well for me as being a Muslim man.

Presently, it's with the Omega Watch Co SA awaiting to be serviced. I am giving it a full factory service after deciding that it will be in my permanent collection.



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