Omega Caliber 1620: The Digital-Brain Behind Omega’s Professional Quartz Hybrids

The Omega Caliber 1620 is a quartz analog-digital multifunction movement introduced in the 1990s, designed for high-precision, high-functionality watches aimed at pilots, divers, and professionals. It followed the path carved by earlier hybrid movements like the 1611 "Albatros," but featured a more modernized layout, improved user interface, and enhanced functionality.

Capable of handling dual displays (analog hands and digital LCD), the 1620 was built into some of Omega’s most capable tool watches of the pre-smartwatch era—including early Seamaster Multifunction models and Speedmaster multifunction prototypes that would later inspire the X-33 line.

Technical Specifications

• Type: Quartz analog-digital multifunction

• Functions:

  • Analog hours and minutes

  • LCD digital display for:

    • 12/24-hour time

    • Alarm

    • Chronograph

    • Countdown timer

    • Date and day

    • Second time zone (T2)

• Battery: 371 (SR920SW)

• Battery Life: ~2 years

• Accuracy: ±10 to 15 seconds/month

• User Controls: Two or more pushers plus a crown (depending on model)

• Display: Analog dial with digital LCD screen (often integrated at 6 o’clock)

• Backlight: No

• Sound Alert: Yes (beep tone for alarm and confirmations)

The Caliber 1620 was likely based on a high-end ETA multifunction platform, but Omega customized the logic system, user interface, and module architecture to meet its design standards and use-case scenarios.

Watches Featuring Caliber 1620

Omega used the Caliber 1620 in a variety of Seamaster and Speedmaster Multifunction watches during the 1990s. Key models include:

• Omega Seamaster Polaris Multifunction (late models)

• Omega Seamaster 200M Multifunction Quartz

• Omega Speedmaster analog-digital prototypes (predecessors to the X-33)

• Some Constellation Multifunctions (market-specific)

The watches featured stainless steel, titanium, or bi-metal cases, and were designed for daily wear, timing tasks, and dual time zone use. The analog-digital hybrid concept made them both stylish and highly functional, appealing to pilots, divers, and frequent travelers.

Functions and Operation

The Caliber 1620 offered users:

• Dual time zones: analog for local time, digital for travel

• Chronograph: up to 59 minutes, 59 seconds

• Countdown timer: ideal for regattas, tasks, or workouts

• Daily alarm: with clear tone

• Date and day readout: useful for work or travel

Functions were cycled through via side pushers, with clear digital feedback in the LCD window, usually located at the 6 o'clock position on the dial. This setup allowed for easy one-hand control and quick reference, even during active situations.

Servicing and Support

Like other quartz multifunction movements, the Caliber 1620 is serviceable but increasingly rare. While battery replacements are simple, full movement servicing or repairs require vintage Omega specialists familiar with LCD modules and hybrid circuits.

The main service concerns today include:

• LCD display fading or damage

• Electronic module failure

• Donor movement sourcing

Some parts are interchangeable with other Omega quartz calibers, but original 1620 modules are no longer produced, making preservation especially important.

Collector Appeal

Watches powered by the 1620 have become more collectible in recent years due to:

• Their hybrid tech-meets-luxury design

• Omega’s heritage in quartz innovation

• Their influence on later professional models like the X-33

• Retro-modern appeal in the growing vintage quartz market

Clean examples with working LCDs, full bracelets, and original packaging are increasingly sought after by collectors.

Final Thoughts

The Omega Caliber 1620 represents a technological leap in multifunction quartz watchmaking—delivering professional-grade features in a luxury case. As a bridge between the digital tools of the past and Omega’s future X-33 innovation, the 1620 remains a milestone in analog-digital horology.

For collectors and professionals alike, it offers a fascinating blend of style, functionality, and vintage digital charm—all in a durable Swiss-made package.