1963? Constellation help

E Edenwildfood

Also what's the story with the case. It appears two tone, the case seems stainless and the lugs are gold plated I assume. Not seen one like that.

Peemacgee

Welcome @Edenwildfood

Unfortunately the bezel will be near impossible to find.
These were 14k solid gold and was possibly scrapped.

The watch is a gold capped dome dial most likely ref 168.005 known as a dogleg Constellation.

( there is an outside chance it has the earlier reference 14902 - the reference is inside the case back)

Cal 561 movement.

The dial looks good from the photos.

You’re pretty much spot on for the date.

Dan S

The bezel is unicorn poop, unfortunately. People sometimes have a gold bezel fabricated, but it won't be cheap.

I see you've now found the reference number inside the case-back; it appears to be 168.005.

This type of case is called gold-capped, with a relatively thick shell of gold covering SS lugs (which can be seen from the back).

Dan S

Not that I know of. Unfortunately, as mentioned above, these gold bezels are often scrapped, and newcomers often show up with this problem. And therefore, finding an original is almost impossible. There are many threads on this topic, and fabrication is the only solution I've ever seen. IMO, the best use of the watch would probably be a parts donor, and given that it was found at a thrift store, I'm sure you'll be fine financially.

E Edenwildfood

I'd hate to part it out seeing as I have always wanted one and am unlikely to ever want to spend the money to actually acquire one complete at retail prices. The dial is in fantastic near mint condition too.

Gav1967

And ....welcome to the rabbit hole that is watch collecting. Most of us have been in a similar situation at some point