Omega Constellation C-Shape Ref. 168.017 Linen Dial

The original model Constellations had several elements that have gone on to become emblematic of the collection. From the elegant lugs and pie-pan style dials to the dauphine hands and iconic diamond-shaped hour markers, the Constellation was unique looking, to say the least. These good looks went down a treat with customers, and within no time the Constellation was outselling every chronometer model that Omega competitor Rolex had to offer. Looking to update its style even in the face of massive popularity, Omega decided to revamp the model in the ‘60s, with the help of one Gerald Genta.

This revamp was known as the C-case, or C-type, and was very much inspired by the Space-age design aesthetic that had taken over in the ‘60s. The new C-case design had some rather dramatic changes from its predecessor. These came in the way of integrated lugs, no pie-pan dial, baton indices and stick hands. Even the case shaped changed from a circular shape to the tonneau shape. While it hasn’t ever been confirmed, it is widely believed and accepted that it was Gerald Genta who designed the C-case.