{"id":20190,"date":"2026-04-03T15:40:00","date_gmt":"2026-04-03T13:40:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.my-watchsite.com\/blog\/?p=20190"},"modified":"2026-04-03T16:45:32","modified_gmt":"2026-04-03T14:45:32","slug":"constellation-observatory-omega-sets-up-new-certification-standards","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.my-watchsite.com\/blog\/constellation-observatory-omega-sets-up-new-certification-standards\/","title":{"rendered":"Constellation Observatory: Omega sets up new certification standards"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
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The new Omega Constellation Observatory are all made out of exclusive materials: O-MEGASTEEL, 18K Sedna\u2122 gold, 18K Moonshine\u2122 gold, 18K Canopus Gold\u2122 and Platinum-Gold 950.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Who still needs a seconds hand?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Until now, chronometric certification processes were based on the observation of the seconds hand \u2013 a key element to measure the movement\u2019s regularity. This constraint is now past tense, thanks to a new ground-breaking technology: a process that combines acoustic testing with optical monitoring of the hands.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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The Laboratoire de Pr\u00e9cision works as an official independent certification organism and is in charge of its own measuring technology and its management.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Developed by the Laboratoire de Pr\u00e9cision<\/a>, an organism officially authorized by the SAS (Swiss Accreditation Service) to conduct independent testing similar to those carried out by the COSC (Official Swiss Chronometer Testing Institute) and certified by METAS (Federal Institute of Metrology), this process allows to continuously analyze the tick-tock sound of the movement for the 22 days of testing required by the Chronometer and Master Chronometer protocols \u2013 either 15 days for the former or 8 days for the latter, plus 2 days of evaluation and recalibrating. While classic methods consist of a daily measurement, the Dual Metric Technology receives an infinity of data from the very first second.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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A unit equipped with the Dual Metric technology.<\/strong><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

About the Laboratoire de Pr\u00e9cision<\/strong>
 
This new structure validated by the Swiss Accreditation Service (SAS) stands as an official alternative to the COSC for performing chronometers certifications. Even though it was created by Omega, this laboratory is independent, neutral and open to any watchmaking company or manufacturer, thus ensuring reliable and unbiased testing meeting the ISO 3159 norm.
Equipped with cutting-edge technologies, the Laboratoire de Pr\u00e9cision carries continuous chronometric measurements during 15 days (for the Chronometer test procedures) and 8 days (for the Master Chronometer ones). Conversely, traditional methods are limited to daily measurements. Every vibration is analysed with tenfold increased precision under different conditions such as position and temperature variations. This approach provides for a considerable amount of data that are then exploited according to industrial methods \u2013 offering a thorough understanding of the watches\u2019 performances.
This laboratory represents a strategic innovation lever for Omega, especially with the Spirate\u2122 system, as it helps facilitating the constant improvement of their calibres. It also allows the house to integrate more tests to their production line \u2013 with Swatch Group\u2019s in-house expertise. Split between 2 Swiss sites (Bienne and Villeret), the Laboratoire de Pr\u00e9cision is the embodiment of a new milestone along the road to watchmaking excellence and precision.<\/p><\/blockquote><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

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This lab is recognized by METAS for the Master Chronometer certification, and is officially accredited as a testing laboratory for the Chronometer certification by the SAS.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The acoustic signature of a movement reveals in details any frequency variation, environmental sensitivity \u2013 temperature, atmospheric pressure, magnetic fields \u2013 or amplitude gap. What\u2019s more, it can precisely locate the origin and the time of such irregularities, thus offering an unprecedented analysis tool for watchmakers. More than a simple technical performance, this innovation redefines certification standards. Having a seconds hand has now become optional for precision testing, as Omega\u2019s CEO Raynald Aeschlimann stated.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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This reference showcases a pie pan dial made out of black ceramic whose centre is polished, just like the non-grooved facets.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

\u201cUntil now, precision certification has required a seconds hand. The development of a new acoustic testing methodology has made that requirement obsolete. It is this breakthrough that has enabled us to present the Constellation Observatory, the first two-hand watch to achieve Master Chronometer certification.\u201d<\/em>

Raynald Aeschlimann, President and CEO of Omega.<\/p><\/blockquote><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

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These four editions are made out of O-MEGASTEEL, an exclusive alloy developed by Omega.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Constellation Observatory: Modernizing heritages<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Launched in 1952, the Constellation collection has always embodied Omega\u2019s chronometric strict requirements. With this new Constellation Observatory, the house revives this heritage through nine 39.4mm references that combine historical design and modern innovations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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The Omega Centenary watch: an automatic chronometer released in 1948 for the 100th<\/sup> anniversary of the company (1848-1948). This model is the precursor of the Constellation collection to be launched in 1952.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The emblematic aesthetic codes of the historical models are reinterpreted with precision: a twelve-sided pie pan dial with facets either stamped or hand-guilloche for the Grand Luxe variations, a star at 6 o\u2019clock, dauphine hands and faceted kite-form indices. On the case back, the eight stars that circle the Observatory medallion symbolize the house\u2019s victories in official watch precision contests organized by prestigious observatories such as Geneva\u2019s. The dog-leg lugs and the 9-link brick pattern 18K Moonshine\u2122 mesh bracelet also deserve full attention.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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The blue pie pan dial of this edition showcases a sun-brushed finish and opaline facets underlined by eight guilloche grooves.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Such accurate aesthetics come with acutely sophisticated materials and finishing, especially with the arrival of guilloche and black ceramic dials, or the use of exclusive alloys such as O-MEGASTEEL, Moonshine\u2122 or Sedna\u2122 gold, etc.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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This model made of 18K Moonshine\u2122 gold stands out by its 9-link mesh bracelet adorned with a brick pattern.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

New calibres and upmarket technical improvements<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The collection introduces two new Master Chronometer movements: calibres 8914 and 8915. They both rely on an architecture with a pierced rotor and enriched top-of-the-range finishing as well as a distinctive Observatory medallion. Calibre 8915 is also available as Grand Luxe and Luxe editions, integrating precious materials like Moonshine\u2122 or Sedna\u2122 gold. Resisting magnetic waves up to 15,000 gauss, the automatic bi-directional movements offer a power reserve of about 60 hours.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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This 8915 calibre is visible through the sapphire case back, revealing a skeletonized 18K Moonshine\u2122 gold rotor.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
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The models made out of 18K Sedna\u2122 gold and 18k Canopus Gold\u2122 feature an angulous case and a transparent case back that reveals a movement decorated with 18K Sedna\u2122 gold.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The Platinum-Gold edition stands out by its thorough decoration level. The pie pan dial is dressed in a Platinum 950 gold PVD coating.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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The medallion merges a dark blue aventurine sky with the opaline white dome of the observatory \u2013 the signature of the Constellation models \u2013 first engraved with a laser then enameled.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Delivered in a special marquetry box, this exceptional edition is powered by the Calibre 8915 by Omega with a pierced 18K Sedna\u2122 gold rotor adorned by an 18K white gold medallion. This precious emblem shows the observatory, engraved with a laser then enameled, with a starry background made of dark blue aventurine.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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The Platinum-gold model is delivered in a special marquetry box.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Every O-MEGASTEEL model is equipped with Calibre 8914 and a rhodium-plated rotor \u2013 thus following the same technical requirements for a more affordable price.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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This O-MEGASTEEL reference is powered by Calibre 8914 by Omega that was certified Master Chronometer. Revealed by a sapphire case back, it is adorned with arabesque C\u00f4tes de Gen\u00e8ve waves and a pierced oscillating weight featuring a medallion that represents the iconic observatory of the Constellation collection.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

With this new Constellation Observatory, Omega doesn\u2019t just launch a new collection: they redefine the very foundations of watchmaking precision measurements. By setting the certification process free from the obstacle the seconds hand represented, they pave the way for new timepieces to get certified. An innovation that could eventually spread to the whole industry.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Such precision wasn\u2019t born yesterday<\/strong>

1948<\/strong>: Omega unveils their first self-winding wristwatch ever certified Chronometer: the Centenary.
1952<\/strong>: the Constellation is launched as Omega\u2019s first mass-produced chronometers collection. Ever since the beginning, every mechanical Constellation model has been a chronometer.
1999-2013<\/strong>: Omega introduces the Co-Axial escapement that reduces fiction for a durable precision \u2013 their first practical innovation in 250 years. It is quickly followed by anti-magnetic movements that feature anti-magnetic components as well as NivaGauss\u2122 silicon.
2015<\/strong>: the Globemaster becomes the first watch certified Master Chronometer by METAS. The final watches are tested on their precision scores, their magnetic resistance, their power reserve and their waterproofness.
2023<\/strong>: Omega establishes the Laboratoire de Pr\u00e9cision<\/a> \u2013 officially accredited as a testing laboratory according to the ISO\/IEC 17025 :2017 norm.
2026<\/strong>: the Constellation Observatory becomes the first two-hand watch to be certified Master Chronometer through an acoustic process \u2013 that doesn\u2019t require any seconds hand for precision testing \u2013 performed by the Laboratoire de Pr\u00e9cision.<\/p><\/blockquote><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

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Constellation Observatory \u2013 Ref. 14013392101001 \u2013 O-MEGASTEEL \u2013 Black dial \u2013 Black leather strap<\/a> – \u20ac11,900<\/strong>
Constellation Observatory \u2013 Ref. 14013392102001 \u2013 O-MEGASTEEL \u2013 Silver dial \u2013 Black leather strap<\/a> – \u20ac10,700<\/strong>
Constellation Observatory \u2013 Ref. 14013392103001 \u2013 O-MEGASTEEL \u2013 Blue dial \u2013 Blue leather strap<\/a> – \u20ac10,700<\/strong>
Constellation Observatory \u2013 Ref. 14013392110001 \u2013 O-MEGASTEEL \u2013 Green dial \u2013 Green leather strap<\/a> – \u20ac10,700<\/strong>
Constellation Observatory \u2013 Ref. 14050392199001 \u2013 Moonshine\u2122 Gold \u2013 Yellow dial \u2013 Bracelet Moonshine\u2122 Gold<\/a> – \u20ac57,700<\/strong>
Constellation Observatory \u2013 Ref. 14053392199001 \u2013 Moonshine\u2122 Gold \u2013 Yellow dial \u2013 Green leather strap<\/a> – \u20ac37,000<\/strong>
Constellation Observatory \u2013 Ref. 14053392199002 \u2013 Sedna\u2122 Gold \u2013 Pink dial \u2013 Burgundy leather strap<\/a> – \u20ac37,000<\/strong>
Constellation Observatory \u2013 Ref. 14053392199004 \u2013 Canopus Gold\u2122 \u2013 Silver dial \u2013 Navy blue leather strap<\/a> – \u20ac43,000<\/strong>
Constellation Observatory \u2013 Ref. 14093392199001 \u2013 Platinum-Gold \u2013 Yellow dial \u2013 Black and golden leather strap<\/a> – \u20ac56,400<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Omega website<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

See also:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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