The Omega Speedmaster Professional Moonwatch, a legend in its own right, has a rich history intertwined with various movements. While the hand-wound caliber 321 and later the caliber 861/1861 hold iconic status, Omega also utilized automatic chronograph movements, significantly broadening the appeal of their Speedmaster line. One such movement, the Omega caliber 1164, stands as a crucial chapter in Omega's chronograph evolution. This article will delve deep into the intricacies of the caliber 1164, its relationship to the ETA/Valjoux 7750, its specifications, and a comprehensive list of the watches that proudly house this robust and reliable movement.
Omega's Embrace of the ETA/Valjoux 7750: The Genesis of the Caliber 1164
The Omega caliber 1164 isn't a completely in-house movement. Instead, it represents Omega's adaptation and refinement of the highly respected ETA/Valjoux 7750, a workhorse automatic chronograph movement known for its reliability and versatility. This strategic move allowed Omega to offer a robust, automatic chronograph option in their Speedmaster line without the significant cost and development time associated with creating a completely new movement from scratch. While based on the 7750, the caliber 1164 isn't simply a re-branded ETA movement. Omega subjected it to rigorous testing and quality control, incorporating modifications to meet their stringent standards. These modifications often involved adjustments to the finishing, decoration, and potentially minor adjustments to the movement's performance characteristics, resulting in a movement uniquely identified as Omega's caliber 1164.
Detailed Anatomy of the Omega Caliber 1164:
The caliber 1164, at its heart, shares the fundamental architecture of the ETA/Valjoux 7750. This means a modular design with a base movement augmented by chronograph modules. Key features include:
* Automatic Winding: The movement utilizes a self-winding mechanism, eliminating the need for manual winding. This convenient feature contributes to its popularity among users.
* Chronograph Function: The chronograph function provides precise time measurement up to 12 hours, featuring a central chronograph seconds hand, a 30-minute counter, and a 12-hour counter. The pushers, typically positioned at 2 and 4 o'clock, control the start, stop, and reset functions of the chronograph.
* Date Display: A date window, usually located at 3 o'clock, provides a practical everyday calendar function.
* Frequency: The balance wheel oscillates at a frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour (4 Hz), contributing to a relatively smooth sweep of the seconds hand.
* Jewels: The movement typically boasts a respectable number of jewels, reducing friction and enhancing longevity. The exact number may vary slightly depending on specific iterations.
* Power Reserve: The caliber 1164 offers a commendable power reserve, usually around 44 hours, ensuring reliable timekeeping even if the watch isn't worn for a short period.
* Finishing: While the ETA/Valjoux 7750 is known for its functional design, Omega typically elevates the finishing of the caliber 1164. Expect to see Geneva stripes, perlage, and other decorative elements that enhance the aesthetic appeal of the movement when viewed through the exhibition caseback of many watches featuring this caliber.
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