Omega Caliber 130: A Historic Mechanical Movement

The Omega Caliber 130 is a mechanical hand-wound movement produced by Omega in the early 20th century, around the 1910s to 1920s. It played a crucial role in Omega’s rise as a leading Swiss watchmaker, known for its solid construction, accuracy, and craftsmanship.

This movement is part of Omega’s early 30mm caliber family, which laid the groundwork for many future developments in watchmaking.

Technical Specifications

• Type: Mechanical hand-wound

• Functions: Hours, minutes, small seconds at 6 o’clock

• Jewels: Typically 15 to 17

• Frequency: Approx. 18,000 vibrations per hour (vph)

• Diameter: Around 30 mm

• Thickness: Varies, generally slim for its era

Watches Featuring Caliber 130

The Caliber 130 powered various early Omega wristwatches and pocket watches, characterized by:

• Classic round cases made of gold, silver, or stainless steel

• Small seconds subdial at 6 o’clock for precise timing

• Elegant enamel or metal dials with Arabic or Roman numerals

• Manual winding crowns typical of the period

These watches often served as reliable timekeepers in both civilian and military settings.

Performance and Durability

The 130 caliber is known for:

• Robust construction and reliable hand-winding mechanism

• Moderate beat rate ensuring longevity and ease of repair

• Accurate timekeeping for its era, often exceeding expectations

• Simplicity in design that facilitated maintenance and servicing

Its durability made it popular among early wristwatch adopters.

Maintenance and Servicing

As a vintage mechanical movement, the 130 requires:

• Regular servicing to clean and lubricate components

• Replacement of worn parts when needed

• Careful handling due to its age and delicate construction

Parts may be scarce but can often be sourced through vintage watchmakers or Omega archives.

Collector Appeal

Collectors prize the Omega Caliber 130 for:

• Its historical significance as one of Omega’s early wristwatch movements

• Classic design and craftsmanship representing early 20th-century watchmaking

• Its role in Omega’s rise as a precision Swiss watch manufacturer

• The charm and character of vintage mechanical watches

Final Thoughts

The Omega Caliber 130 remains a treasured part of horological history, symbolizing the dawn of reliable wristwatch movements. For enthusiasts of vintage timepieces, it offers a glimpse into the craftsmanship and innovation that helped shape modern watchmaking.