Omega 1602 Constellation (Gold-Filled)

Omega's first digital watch after their split from Pulsar Time Computer

Description:

The Omega 1602 Constellation was the first LED watch produced by Omega after their split with Time Computer. Omega's first digital watches, the TC-1 and TC-2, were produced in collaboration with Pulsar Time Computer. For the 1602, Omega relied upon a company called "Frontier" for the modules while Omega focused on design, construction, and marketing.

Omega Quartz Advertisement from 1975

The Omega 1602 Constellation preserves the boxy, chunky design of Omega's first digital watches, the TC-1 and TC-2. The 1602 is, however, significantly thinner than the earlier models and is therefore relatively easy and comfortable to wear despite its sizeable heft. The case and bracelet feature a nice combination of brushed and polished finishes. As in all Omega Constellations, the case back is adorned with the beautiful and distinctive observatory logo. The 1602 is a relatively large and heavy digital which makes in line with today's larger styles.

The Omega 1602 Constellation contains a Frontier 1602 module which features a bright and beautiful dot style LED display. The 1602 module and later 1602 module are dimensionally equivalent and interchangeable. Although the later 1602 module added a day of the week functionality which the 1602 lacked, most collectors prefer the earlier 1602 module because of the beauty of the dot style display.

Omega Quartz Advertisement for the 1975 Montreal Olympics

Unlike the Time Computer modules used in Omega's first LED watches, the 1602 and 1602 modules were made for other lower priced watches so it's sometimes possible to pick up a replacement module from an inexpensive watch at a very reasonable price. The only difference between generic Frontier modules and the Omega branded Frontier modules is the size of the plastic carrier and the "SSIH" label printed on the quartz crystal housing.

One aspect of this watch that is not depicted in photographs but I find appealing is that the Frontier 1602 module has a lower refresh rate than other modules, probably around 30 Hz. This causes the display to have a subtle scintillating effect. If you wave the watch around in the dark, you can clearly see the slight flickering. If you've ever waved a string of LED Christmas lights around in the dark, then you have an idea of what I'm talking about.

The Omega 1602 Constellation was made in gold filled and stainless models. Today, they are both highly sought after by collectors and can fetch outrageous prices with decent pieces going for $1000 or more.

Condition:

This is "new old stock" and is in almost perfect condition. It even includes its original price tag (for $350 in 1975)! This watch contains the correct Frontier 1602 module, but the module is from a Hamilton rather than an Omega. The only difference is the Omega logo that would normally be present on the plastic carrier of the module. It is very unusual to find this model in such outstanding condition as most of these models usually show heavy signs of wear.

Case: Excellent.
There are a few tiny scratches on the bezel surrounding the time screen, which are only visible because these surfaces are polished to a mirror shine. There is one very, very tiny ding at the top of the bezel right in the center which is just barely visible in the high magnification photos. The case back is also minty and still has the original purple protective coating from the factory. There are one or two tiny scratches visible on the mirror polished sides of the case back.

Face / Hands: Excellent.
All LED digits and segments are complete and bright.

Crystal: Excellent.
The red mineral glass crystal is minty with no visible scratches and the logo is in pristine condition.

Band / Bracelet: Excellent.
The heavy gold filled bracelet and gold plated clasp are about as minty as you could hope for. Gorgeous.

Function / Accuracy: Excellent.
All functions work perfectly. Digital quartz accuracy.