Omega Caliber 1680B: The Final Word in Omega’s Quartz Hybrid Innovation

The Omega Caliber 1680B is a quartz analog-digital multifunction movement, representing one of the last and most sophisticated quartz calibers produced by Omega before the smartwatch era began to reshape the market. Designed to deliver daily practicality, travel-ready tools, and clean aesthetics, the 1680B refined the functionality of earlier 16xx-series movements while maintaining the brand’s hallmark quality and finish.

This movement was created for wearers who demanded more than basic timekeeping—with features like dual time zones, chronograph, and alarms—yet still wanted the look and feel of a traditional analog watch.

Technical Specifications

• Type: Quartz analog-digital hybrid

• Functions:

  • Analog hours, minutes, and central seconds

  • LCD digital display with:

    • Digital time (12/24-hour)

    • Second time zone (T2)

    • Countdown timer

    • Chronograph

    • Daily alarm

    • Perpetual calendar (day and date)

• Battery: CR1620

• Battery Life: ~30 months

• Accuracy: ±10 seconds/month

• Controls: Pushers + crown interface

• Display: LCD window (typically at 6 o’clock, integrated into the dial)

• Backlight: No

• Sound Alert: Yes (for alarm and button confirmation)

The 1680B was engineered on an enhanced platform, improving power efficiency, software responsiveness, and user interaction compared to earlier models like the 1666 and 1675. Its refined logic made switching between modes faster and more intuitive, ideal for those on the move.

Watches Powered by Caliber 1680B

The Cal. 1680B was likely used in late-era:

• Omega Seamaster Professional Multifunction Quartz models

• Sport-luxury hybrid editions for specific regional markets

• Possibly limited Constellation references with analog-digital integration

These watches featured:

• Stainless steel or titanium cases

• Omega’s iconic wave dials or clean sport designs

• Rotating or fixed bezels depending on the model family

• Screw-down crowns and water resistance up to 300m

• LCD screen subtly placed at 6 o’clock or embedded into the dial ring

These were robust, highly functional watches with a streamlined and minimalist display, offering serious features in a polished exterior.

Functional Highlights

Users appreciated the Cal. 1680B for:

• Travel-ready time zone switching

• One-touch chronograph and timer functions

• Daily alarm system

• Easy-to-read day/date display

• Independent analog and digital operation

The 1680B was one of Omega’s most user-friendly multifunction movements, with logic sequences that felt natural and efficient.

Maintenance and Durability

The 1680B is a low-maintenance and durable movement, requiring:

• Battery service every 2.5 years

• Periodic checks on seals and pushers for water resistance

• LCD care (rare but necessary if fading occurs)

Omega-authorized centers are best equipped to handle repairs, though some parts compatibility exists with earlier 1680 and 1670-series modules.

Final Thoughts

The Omega Caliber 1680B represents the pinnacle of Omega’s hybrid quartz development. With elegant analog looks and discreet digital utility, it strikes a perfect balance between tradition and technology. For collectors and modern professionals, it remains a rare, reliable, and highly capable quartz option—especially for those who appreciate functionality without sacrificing form.