Omega 196.0121

The Omega 196.0121, also documented as MD 196.0121 for the gold-plated version, was produced circa 1978-1979. This timepiece emerged during the height of the quartz revolution, showcasing Omega’s advancements in electronic timekeeping. Its most significant feature is the innovative Omega Caliber 1370 quartz movement, which offered high accuracy (+/- 5 seconds per month) and a unique setting mechanism controlled via a pusher integrated into the crown for minute and second adjustments, alongside independent hour/date setting via the crown. The watch typically features a 35mm-36mm case offered in stainless steel or gold-plate, often with a press-in case back. Dials came in various colors like grey, ivory, silver, champagne, and blue, usually with applied baton markers and hands, often luminous. While its association with a specific Omega model line (Seamaster, Genève) is ambiguous in sources , its identity is strongly tied to its advanced quartz technology. It represents an accessible entry into vintage Omega, appealing to those interested in the brand’s quartz history and distinctive 1970s design.  

Specifications

(Note: Dimensions like diameter, thickness, and lug-to-lug show variations across sources, potentially due to measurement methods or minor production variances.)

Variations and Key Features

The Omega 196.0121, produced in the late 1970s, is defined by its quartz movement and period design. Key features and variations include:

Case:

• Shape: Described variously as round, “C-Shape,” or “Tank”-like, reflecting late 1970s styling.  
• Materials: Available in stainless steel or gold-plated (officially MD 196.0121), typically with a stainless steel press-in case back.  
• Dimensions: Generally measures around 35-36mm in diameter, with an 18mm lug width.  
• Crown: Features a distinctive crown with an integrated central pusher used for setting minutes and seconds electronically. The crown should be signed with the Omega logo.  

Dial:

• Colors: Offered in various colors including grey, ivory, silver, champagne, and blue.  
• Texture: Some variations, like a champagne “linen pattern,” exist.  
• Markers: Typically applied baton or stick hour markers.  
• Lume: Luminous material on hands and/or markers is common.  
• Text: Signed “Omega,” “Quartz,” and “Swiss Made.”  

Hands:

• Style: Usually simple stick or baton hands, often lume-filled.  

Crystal:

• Material: Acrylic (Plexiglass).  
• Detail: Original crystals may feature a tiny, centrally etched Omega logo.  

Movement (Caliber 1370):

• Type: In-house Omega Caliber 1370 quartz electronic analogic movement.  
• Specifications: 7 Jewels, 32,768 Hz frequency, +/- 5 sec/month accuracy (adjustable).  
• Unique Setting:
  • Crown (Pos 2): Independently adjusts hour hand (for time zones) and date without stopping seconds.  
  • Crown Pusher (Brief Press): Advances seconds hand +1 second.  
  • Crown Pusher (Press & Hold): Stops seconds hand.  
  • Crown Pusher (5s Press -> Release -> Press & Hold): Engages rapid minute hand setting.  
• Construction: Designed with a modular conception for easier servicing.  

Additional Information

Historical Context & Model Line: The reference 196.0121 was introduced circa 1978-1979, during the peak of the quartz era when Omega was heavily investing in and marketing its electronic movement technology. Its association with a specific model line like Seamaster or Genève is inconsistent across sources , suggesting its primary identity was as an “Omega Quartz” model, defined by its innovative Caliber 1370 movement rather than a traditional collection name.  

Collectibility: The Omega 196.0121 is not among the most highly-valued vintage Omegas but holds appeal for collectors interested in the brand’s quartz history and the unique Caliber 1370 movement. Its 1970s design aesthetic is also a draw for enthusiasts of that era. Available in steel and gold-plated versions with various dial colors, it offers variety. Prices on the secondary market are relatively accessible compared to Omega’s iconic mechanical models, typically ranging from several hundred to around 700 CHF. Condition and originality, as always, are key factors in determining value.