Omega Constellation Model 2699 - Star of the Month!


The first true Pie Pans in the Omega Constellation range appeared simultaneously in late 1952 in cases 2699 and 2700, the screw-in and press-in variations of the same case style. Case 2699 was introduced as a De Luxe version of the Constellation and remained in this form until replaced by case 2799 in 1956. It featured a screw-in case back over an “O” ring and a hermetic sealing system at the crown, offering water resistance to 30 metres. The “water-proof” 2699 was released in limited quantities as an option to the non water-proof 2700, and today good examples of this model are uncommon to say the least.

Powered by the near-indestructible calibre 354, the polished pie pan facets of the solid eighteen karat dial contrasting with a brushed flat surface and gold arrow-head markers caused a sensation in watch circles at the time. Even today this beautifully designed piece radiates a restrained luxury rarely achieved in more contemporary watches. This model, along with the 2700, also featured in limited edition the famous observatory cloisonne dial.



This month’s Star of the Month, belonging to collector RonnieS, is in remarkable condition. Note the sharp lines of the double-angled bezel, the lack of dings in the case and the preserved lines of the lugs. Observe the perfectly conserved original dial and the excellent condition of the movement.

The dial on this model has what is known as “First Design Phase” livery. Note the applied gold Omega symbol, but printed Omega logo: on later dials the logo was applied. The upper case lettering was not serif font and did not conform fully to the MOY test that can be applied on later Constellation models. Also the Constellation lettering is of the earliest style, the most notable feature of which is that both Ts are fully crossed. The minute and sweep just over-reach the chapter ring, thus completing the authenticity checklist. These known features of the 2699 are very important to confirm so as to be confident of acquiring a fully factory specified example.



Case 2699 is not currently listed in the Omega vintage database, and this may deter some on-line buyers or lead to suspicions about legitimacy. Consequently, Constellations like this example can often fly under the radar and represent rich pickings. The model featured here was obtained for more than a thousand dollars under internet market value – a fitting reward for collectors who take the trouble to do their homework.

Click on any of the pictures for enlarged views.

17 comments:

  1. Anonymous11:09 am

    Wonderful, thank you Desmond! Ronnie

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  2. Very elegant watch . I like the style and being water proof.

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  3. Great description and pictures. I have just been lucky enough to buy one of these (a 2699)in mint condition in my local auction house. It was really poorly described! I knew it was good, but I am not a collector and I didn't realise the face was solid gold until after I bought it!! I am so pleased with it :)

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    Replies
    1. Anonymous2:00 pm

      I am in Pakistan, tell me please how I can purchase this Omega Constellation watch.
      Thanx

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    2. the watch featured in this post is not for sale, however examples of this model do surface from time to time on auction sites and sales forums.

      Good luck in your search

      Cheers

      Desmond

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  4. You are lucky indeed Anthony, as the 2699 is not a common piece. Congratulations!

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  5. Anonymous3:55 pm

    Hi,

    There are two 2699 (Items no.161946905189 and 131602606235) on eBay at the moment with 'Officially Certified' still included. Any comments please ?

    So and so

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. the 2699 models would indeed have officially certified printed on the dial. The models that did not have officially certified were 14381, 14393 and some early versions of the 14900 and the 14902

      Cheers

      Desmond

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  6. Hello, I just bought a 2699sc and the case back has been too much polished and now the stars are gone... do you know where I can find a case back for this beauty ? thanks very much

    Anthony

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    Replies
    1. Congrats on your acquisition.

      Case parts supplies for this model have long gone Anthony, and the only option these days is to trawl the internet in the hope of finding one, either as part of a case or separately.

      If you also log in with all the known gold scrap buyers in your state/country you could also jag one at the right moment.

      Regards

      Desmond

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  7. I just purchased a 1952 Omega Constellation Deluxe, case 2699 with a
    354 caliber bumper movement in like new condition with the original buckle.
    What a great watch and find. Nothing like that beautiful bumper movement.
    I was wondering what this watch is worth?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi

      The value depends on condition, case metal, dial style and whether it comes with accessories like box and papers.

      If the watch is in pristine condition, there will be a premium above normal values.

      Not having seen the watch, I can't estimate its value. Perhaps you could email some pics.

      Cheers

      Desmond

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  8. Juan P5:40 am

    I have enjoy your page with comments and explanations.

    I have one and sadly I'm going to have to let it go. I will email you with questions as I don't know the true value of what I have and will prefer to keep it if I'm not getting what its worth. Thanks

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  9. Juan P5:45 am

    Also I hear mentioning 354 and 364, mine is a 552. What does that means? not for 1952 edition?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Feel free to email.

      Numbers like 354, 364 and 552 are the caliber number of the movement.

      Regards

      Desmond

      Delete
  10. Anonymous3:15 am

    Hi Desmond. I wanted to get your help to figure out the worth of my grandfather's old watch which I think is a Omega Constellation OT 2699. Can I get your email so I can send you a picture?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Sure, there is an email click-through in the 'About Me' profile on the top RH column.

      Cheers

      D

      Delete