Omega - Seamaster Caliber 1342 QZ - No reserve price - 196.0078 - Men - 1970-1979

Presented for auction by Second Vintage The Omega Seamaster line has long been a pillar of Swiss watchmaking, celebrated for its blend of robust utility and refined elegance. As the quartz revolution transformed the industry in the 1970s, Omega embraced the new technology, developing highly accurate and innovative calibers that maintained the brand's exacting standards. This particular Seamaster Quartz is a superb example of that transitional era, combining the classic aesthetics of a mid-century dress watch with the precision of early Swiss quartz engineering. The gold-plated case and vertically brushed dial exude a timeless sophistication, making it a versatile piece that speaks to both the history of the Seamaster collection and the technological advancements of its time. Brand: Omega Model: Seamaster Quartz Reference Number: 196.0078 Serial Number: 40642401 Movement: Caliber 1342 Dial: Gold-tone vertically brushed dial with applied indices, showing light aging Case Size: 36 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Gold-plated with stainless steel caseback Production Year: 1970s Condition: Good vintage condition with honest wear and a well-preserved dial Dial and Hands The dial is a striking gold-tone with a pronounced vertical brushed texture that catches the light beautifully. It features applied, faceted baton indices with black inserts, adding depth and legibility. The classic Omega logo is applied at twelve o'clock, while "Seamaster QUARTZ" is elegantly printed in the lower half. A date window at three o'clock is framed by a stepped border. The dial is largely clean, though close inspection reveals some minor signs of aging near the edges and light spotting consistent with its vintage nature. The slender baton hands, also featuring black inserts, are well-preserved, with the minute hand showing slight oxidation. The lume plots at the outer edge of the indices have aged to a creamy tone. Case and Crystal The 36mm case is gold-plated, featuring a smooth bezel and elegantly sweeping lugs that transition seamlessly into the case flanks. The gold plating shows honest signs of wear, particularly along the edges of the bezel and lugs, with some minor scratches and handling marks indicative of regular use over the decades. The stainless steel caseback is secured securely and features the iconic Seamaster hippocampus medallion deeply engraved in the center, surrounded by the text "SEAMASTER" and instructions for bezel removal. The inside of the caseback confirms the reference number 196.0078. The crystal is domed and appears to be acrylic, remaining clear with only superficial micro-scratches visible under harsh light. Movement Powering this Seamaster is the Omega Caliber 1342, an early and highly regarded Swiss quartz movement. The movement features seven jewels and is unadjusted, as marked on the bridge. The serial number 40642401 is clearly visible on the movement block, dating the watch to the late 1970s. The movement architecture is a fascinating blend of traditional mechanical finishing and early electronic circuitry, with the Omega branding proudly displayed. The battery compartment is clean, and the movement appears well-maintained. Strap The watch is fitted with a period-correct, gold-plated stainless steel bracelet with a finely woven brick-link pattern. The bracelet shows wear consistent with the case, including some fading of the gold plating on the high contact areas and near the clasp. The folding clasp is functional and secure, completing the vintage aesthetic of the piece. Condition The watch is presented in good vintage condition. The dial remains highly attractive with its vertical brushing, showing only minor age-related wear. The case and bracelet exhibit honest use, with softening of edges and some loss of gold plating, typical of a well-loved timepiece from this era. The caseback engraving remains crisp, and the crystal is largely clear of significant blemishes. Dimensions The case measures 36 mm in diameter, excluding the crown. Remarks This Omega Seamaster Quartz is a charming representative of the brand's foray into electronic timekeeping. Its classic design, combined with the historical significance of the Caliber 1342, makes it an appealing choice for collectors interested in the evolution of Swiss watchmaking during the 1970s. History Introduced in 1948 to celebrate Omega's 100th anniversary, the Seamaster was originally designed as a robust, water-resistant watch for active individuals. By the 1970s, as quartz technology began to dominate the market, Omega adapted by introducing high-quality electronic movements into their established lines. The Seamaster Quartz models of this era reflect a unique intersection of traditional Omega styling and modern timekeeping technology, offering the reliability of quartz with the prestige of the Seamaster name. / Second Vintage SKU: OME-OSQ-0002