Omega Caliber 1428: Everyday Precision in a Slim Swiss Package

The Omega Caliber 1428 is a quartz analog movement developed in the early 1980s, during Omega’s golden era of quartz experimentation. Like its sibling calibers (such as the 1420, 1422, and 1430), the 1428 was tailored for thin, stylish watches in the De Ville, Constellation, and Seamaster lines. Its compact footprint and two-hand layout made it ideal for uncluttered dials and elegant designs.

With an emphasis on accuracy, slimness, and ease of use, Caliber 1428 exemplifies the Swiss response to growing consumer demand for reliable and fashionable quartz timepieces.

Technical Specifications

• Type: Quartz analog

• Functions: Hours, minutes (no seconds), quickset date

• Jewels: 6

• Battery: 321 (SR616SW)

• Frequency: 32,768 Hz

• Accuracy: ±15 seconds/month

• Power Reserve: Approximately 2 years

• Hacking Seconds: No (no seconds hand)

• Quickset Date: Yes

• Dimensions: Approx. 13 mm in diameter; ultra-thin profile

• Finish: Rhodium-plated plates, compact architecture

One of the defining features of the 1428 is its two-hand configuration (hours and minutes only). This allowed Omega to create ultra-thin watches with maximum visual elegance—ideal for dress models and ladies' quartz references.

Watches Featuring Caliber 1428

The Cal. 1428 was commonly used in:

• Omega De Ville Quartz (ladies’ and ultra-slim models)

• Omega Constellation Slimline references

• Select mid-size or unisex Omega dress watches from the 1980s

Watch cases powered by 1428 often featured:

• 24mm to 30mm diameters

• Gold-tone, bi-color, or stainless steel finishes

• Minimalist dials with stick hands and applied markers

• A date window at 3 o’clock

These models reflected 1980s fashion values—favoring slimness, refinement, and quiet functionality over showy features.

Performance and Reliability

As with other Omega quartz movements of the period, the 1428 was:

• Highly accurate, with only minor monthly deviation

• Battery efficient, especially without a seconds hand

• Ideal for everyday wear, travel, or professional use

• Silent in operation, making it discreet and elegant

The movement’s layout and low energy draw ensured excellent longevity, even in compact watch cases with minimal internal space.

Servicing and Support

Although the Caliber 1428 is no longer in production, it remains fully serviceable:

• Battery changes every 2 years

• Gasket and seal replacements if water resistance is needed

• Donor movements and replacement parts are still found via vintage watch specialists

Given its simplicity, many qualified watchmakers can maintain this movement with ease.

Collector Appeal

The Omega 1428 holds value for collectors who appreciate:

• Vintage Swiss quartz engineering

• Slim, stylish Omega watches from the 1980s

• Reliable, affordable dress models

• Restoration of ladies’ or compact unisex pieces

It’s a practical entry into the world of vintage Omega, especially for those who prioritize ease of use and elegant aesthetics.

Final Thoughts

The Omega Caliber 1428 is a fine example of Omega’s quartz innovation during a key transitional era in horology. Built for quiet excellence, it remains a hidden gem in vintage collecting—combining Swiss precision, timeless styling, and everyday reliability.