Omega Caliber 1433: Precision Quartz for Elegant and Sporty Timepieces

The Omega Caliber 1433 is a Swiss-made quartz analog movement, developed as part of Omega’s 14xx-series in the late 1980s. It was designed to power watches that combined classic styling with the benefits of modern quartz technology. The 1433 balanced slim construction with enhanced features like central seconds, quickset date, and hacking seconds, appealing to both casual and professional wearers.

Closely related to the Caliber 1430 and 1431, the 1433 offered improved circuitry and power management, making it one of Omega’s more dependable quartz movements of the era.

Technical Specifications

• Type: Quartz analog

• Functions: Hours, minutes, central seconds, quickset date

• Jewels: 6

• Battery: 364 (SR621SW)

• Frequency: 32,768 Hz

• Accuracy: ±10 seconds/month

• Power Reserve: Approx. 2 years

• Hacking Seconds: Yes

• Quickset Date: Yes

• Dimensions: Diameter ~18.2 mm, thickness ~2.5 mm

• Finish: Rhodium-plated bridges, modular design

Watches Featuring Caliber 1433

The Caliber 1433 was used in various Omega models from the late 1980s and early 1990s, including:

• Omega De Ville Quartz

• Omega Seamaster Quartz (particularly dress and mid-size variants)

• Omega Constellation Quartz (non-chronometer versions)

• Regional market-specific models in Europe and Asia

These watches typically featured:

• Case sizes ranging from 32 mm to 36 mm

• Stainless steel, gold-plated, or two-tone cases

• Date windows at 3 o’clock

• Classic, minimalist dial designs with applied indices or Roman numerals

Performance and Usability

The 1433 delivered:

• Precise and consistent timekeeping suitable for daily and professional use

• A smooth ticking seconds hand with hacking functionality for precise time setting

• Convenient quickset date adjustment

• Long battery life, usually around 24 months, with efficient power use

• Quiet operation and traditional analog display for a classic look

Maintenance and Servicing

Maintenance for the Caliber 1433 is straightforward:

• Battery replacement every 2 years or so

• Periodic gasket replacement for water resistance

• Access to spare parts and donor movements remains good, thanks to its ETA heritage

Qualified watchmakers and Omega service centers continue to support this movement.

Collector Appeal

While quartz movements are often overlooked, the 1433 has value for:

• Collectors interested in vintage Omega quartz watches

• Those seeking affordable Swiss luxury

• Enthusiasts of late 20th-century watch design

• People wanting a reliable, stylish watch with minimal maintenance

Original condition models with full documentation are especially prized.

Final Thoughts

The Omega Caliber 1433 stands as a testament to Omega’s commitment to high-quality quartz watchmaking during a transitional period. It offers a blend of precision, reliability, and elegance, making it a worthy choice for both collectors and daily wearers looking for a classic Swiss timepiece with quartz convenience.