The First Two-Hand Master Chronometer: Omega Constellation Observatory
- coolwatchgo1
- 2 days ago
- 2 min read
In March 2026, Omega introduced the new Constellation Observatory collection. More than simply a new addition to the Constellation family, it is the world's first collection of two-hand watches to achieve Master Chronometer certification. All nine models feature a two-hand display without a seconds hand, making them the first two-hand watches to meet the stringent Master Chronometer standard. The collection also carries forward the signature design language of the Constellation line, retaining iconic elements such as the Pie Pan dial and Dog-leg lugs while continuing the design heritage established in 1952.
New Testing Technology Makes Two-Hand Master Chronometer Certification Possible
The key to Constellation Observatory becoming the world's first two-hand Master Chronometer collection lies in Omega's Laboratoire de Précision (LdP), a precision testing laboratory introduced in 2023. Unlike conventional testing methods, which calculate rate accuracy by photographing the position of the seconds hand, the new LdP system employs a wireless acoustic testing technology known as Dual Metric Technology, replacing traditional optical measurement with acoustic analysis.
During the 25-day testing period, the system continuously records the sound produced by the movement while simultaneously monitoring environmental factors including temperature, wearing position and air pressure. This allows for a more comprehensive evaluation of the watch's performance under different operating conditions.
Although a conventional timegrapher also measures rate performance by analysing the sound of the escapement, it relies on short-term data and cannot accurately reflect long-term changes such as the gradual decline in power reserve. By comparison, the LdP system continuously collects data over 25 days. In addition to meeting the stringent requirements of METAS Master Chronometer certification, it has also been recognised by the Swiss Accreditation Service (SAS) as an official chronometer testing laboratory, which is why the collection carries the name Constellation Observatory.
Continuing the Classic Constellation Design
Despite adopting a two-hand layout, the new collection retains the signature design elements of the Constellation line. These include the iconic Pie Pan dial with its twelve faceted sections defined by the hour markers and the distinctive Dog-leg lugs that have characterised the collection for decades.
140.13.39.21.02.001
This model features a 39.4 mm O-MEGASTEEL case measuring 12.23 mm thick. It is paired with a silver Pie Pan dial, a black ceramic outer ring and 18K Sedna Gold dauphine hands and hour markers. The watch is fitted with a dark grey alligator leather strap and is powered by the Omega Co-Axial Master Chronometer Calibre 8914 automatic movement, beating at 25,200 vibrations per hour (3.5 Hz).
140.13.39.21.10.001
Housed in a polished and brushed 39.4 mm O-MEGASTEEL case, this model features a green Pie Pan dial inspired by the original 1952 Constellation. The centre of the dial is finished with a sun-brushed pattern, while the twelve faceted sections feature an opaline finish with eight embossed grooves. The applied Omega logo and Constellation star complete the dial, while the hour markers and dauphine hands are crafted from 18K white gold.
140.53.39.21.99.001
This model features a polished and brushed 39.4 mm 18K Moonshine™ Gold case paired with a yellow-green leather strap and polished buckle. The 18K Moonshine™ Gold dial features a sun-brushed centre, while the collection's newly designed kite-shaped hour markers are diamond polished and matched with diamond-polished dauphine hands crafted from 18K Moonshine™ Gold.
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