Omega De Ville Quartz Ref. 191.0074.1 - Calibre 1330, 1978
The most interesting detail of this De Ville lies not on the dial, but in the small button at the center of the crown. At first glance, one sees a champagne-colored surface, slender baton indices, and two dark hands. There is no date window; the dial is remarkably uncluttered. However, when you begin to set the time, the 1970s quartz engineering behind this classic appearance is revealed.
**IMPORTANT NOTE: As this item ships from within the European Union, you will not be liable for customs duties within the EU.**
The Omega Calibre 1330 movement inside featuring three jewels is not adjusted via the standard crown operation. Pressing and holding the central button advances the minute hand, while pulling and turning the crown moves the hour hand independently, without disturbing the minute setting. This allows the watch to be adjusted to a different time zone without needing to re-synchronize the minutes. Introduced by Omega in 1976, this movement combines quartz precision with an adjustment system that is unconventional yet highly practical for daily use.
The serial number 41,181,296 on the movement dates this specific piece to 1978. In Omega’s serial number charts, the 41-million range corresponds to 1978; thus, the date can be determined directly from the watch's own movement number, rather than relying solely on the reference's general production period.
The case, measuring approximately 31.5 mm in width, is not perfectly round; The softened-corner tonneau shape flares out toward the elongated lugs, leaving a surprisingly spacious area for the dial. As the finely brushed champagne surface shifts with the light, the gold-tone indices stand out clearly. Dark hands remain distinct against the warm background. Aside from the "De Ville / Quartz" lettering at the 6 o'clock position, there are virtually no distracting elements on the dial; the unique nature of the movement does not clutter the watch's aesthetic.
The reference number 191.0074.1 on the inner case back confirms the model's identity. The "LUNETTE PLAQUÉ OR G 20 MICRONS" stamp on the same surface indicates a 20-micron gold plating on the upper section, while "FOND ACIER INOXYDABLE" signifies a stainless steel case back. Both the case and dial are well-preserved; upon close inspection, slight signs of wear consistent with the watch's age are visible.
The watch comes with a red Omega box and white outer sleeve, an International Guarantee booklet, an Omega Quartz instruction manual specifically for the Calibre 1330, and a separate black strap featuring an Omega-signed buckle. The movement manual is particularly significant here; the period-correct documentation accompanying the watch explains the function of the small button on the crown.
Final Thoughts
This De Ville tells the story of the quartz era in two distinct ways. On the wrist, it is an understated, gold-tone dress watch; in hand, it is a unique 1970s Omega that employs separate mechanisms for adjusting the minutes and hours. In this 1978 example, the true character of the Calibre 1330 reveals itself not when telling time, but when adjusting it.
The product shown was manufactured in 1978. Professionally fully serviced.
The mechanism was completely disassembled; every part was cleaned, lubricated, and precisely adjusted to ensure flawless operation. (It will not require further servicing for three years, provided it is not exposed to adverse conditions.)
Product Condition: Tested; all functions are fully operational.
