Editorial
The Constellation 41mm in steel and yellow gold is Omega's integrated-bracelet sport-dresser, built around the Co-Axial Master Chronometer 8501 and wearing its identity in the "Griffes," the four claws at 3 and 9 that have distinguished every Constellation since 1982. It occupies an awkward-honest niche: close enough to the Royal Oak silhouette that comparisons are unavoidable, yet priced well below it and entirely its own thing once you spend time with it. For a collector who wants a certified Master Chronometer movement in a bracelet watch without paying Audemars money, this reference makes a serious case.
The modern Constellation lineup in this configuration launched around 2015, replacing the previous generation and standardizing on the 8501 family of Co-Axial movements, which carry METAS Master Chronometer certification for accuracy within 0/+5 seconds per day and magnetic resistance to 15,000 gauss. The 41mm case in steel with yellow gold trim (ref. 131.20.41.41.06.001) pairs with a matching integrated steel and gold bracelet; a full steel version and full gold versions exist in parallel. Omega also offers an annual calendar variant in this generation, adding a meaningful complication without dramatically changing the footprint.
The Griffes design itself dates to the early 1980s Constellation rebrand, so the claw motif carries genuine lineage even on this 2015-onward production run.
Inspect the bracelet closely, particularly the integrated links closest to the lugs: this style of bracelet shows wear at the inner surfaces of the links faster than it shows on the outside, and replacements are not cheap. The two-tone configuration means any case or bracelet polishing work risks blurring the steel-to-gold boundaries, so ask for service history and look for signs of aggressive refinishing. Check the Griffes themselves for dings or scratches; they are a finishing focal point and any damage reads immediately.
Confirm the watch carries a METAS certificate or that the seller can document original purchase, as the Master Chronometer certification is part of the value proposition and an un-certifiable movement (from improper service) is a real downside. The sapphire caseback lets you inspect the movement; look for any signs of moisture intrusion or amateur service work before buying pre-owned.
