Omega Caliber 1480: Precision Quartz for Contemporary Timepieces

The Omega Caliber 1480 is a Swiss quartz analog movement introduced in the late 1990s as part of Omega’s evolving quartz watch portfolio. It represents a further refinement of the 14xx-series, designed to offer high accuracy, enhanced power efficiency, and reliable performance suitable for both dress and sport watches.

Omega deployed the 1480 in various models within the De Ville, Constellation, and Seamaster lines, emphasizing Swiss craftsmanship combined with modern quartz technology.

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: Approximately 3 years

• Quickset Date: Yes

• Hacking Seconds: Yes

• Dimensions: Approx. 18.2 mm diameter, 2.5 mm thickness

• Finish: Rhodium-plated plates with modular design

The Caliber 1480 features advanced circuitry to optimize battery life and ensure stable, consistent timekeeping performance.

Watches Featuring Caliber 1480

The Caliber 1480 movement powered a variety of Omega watches, including:

• Omega De Ville Quartz models

• Omega Constellation Quartz (non-chronometer variants)

• Omega Seamaster Quartz dress and sport models

• Selected regional market editions, especially in Europe and Asia

These watches generally feature:

• Case sizes ranging from 32 mm to 36 mm

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

• Classic dial designs with applied indices or Roman numerals

• Date windows at 3 o’clock

• Sapphire or mineral crystals depending on model

Performance and User Experience

Owners of 1480-powered watches enjoy:

• Accurate timekeeping with deviations typically within ±10 seconds per month

• Smooth, silent seconds hand with hacking function for precise time setting

• Convenient quickset date for easy calendar adjustments

• Long battery life averaging around three years

The movement’s reliability and ease of use make it suitable for various occasions.

Maintenance and Servicing

The Caliber 1480 requires standard maintenance:

• Battery replacements approximately every 2 to 3 years

• Periodic gasket and seal inspections to maintain water resistance

• Availability of spare parts and donor movements through Omega service centers and watchmakers

Regular servicing helps maintain optimal performance.

Collector Appeal

While quartz movements often receive less attention than mechanical ones, the 1480 is valued for:

• Its role in Omega’s late 1990s and early 2000s quartz innovation

• Reliable and stylish Swiss-made watches

• An accessible option for collectors seeking precision and elegance

• Durable, low-maintenance vintage timepieces

Final Thoughts

The Omega Caliber 1480 exemplifies Omega’s dedication to precision, reliability, and style during the quartz era. Its blend of advanced technology, extended battery life, and refined design makes it a practical and elegant choice for collectors and everyday wearers alike.