Vintage Omega De Ville Quartz TV-Dial Ref. 191.0044 / 391.0805
Dress Watch · Omega (Swatch Group precursor). Tier: Luxury. Omega is historically one of the 'Big Three' most recognized luxury watch brands.
Period: Quartz Revolution Era (Late 1970s - Early 1980s). Characterized by the rectangular 'TV screen' case shape and thin profile typical of early luxury quartz integration.
Type
Dress Watch
Brand
Omega (Swatch Group precursor). Tier: Luxury. Omega is historically one of the 'Big Three' most recognized luxury watch brands.
Movement
Quartz Caliber 1332 or 1365 (typical of this era), often featuring a button-actuated time setting or push-in crown mechanism.
Dimensions
32mm width (excluding crown) x 36mm lug-to-lug; thickness 5-7mm; lug width 18mm. It wears larger due to the square-ish profile.
Description
A classic example of late 70s elegance, this Omega De Ville features the iconic 'TV Dial' shape that defined the era's transition from mechanical traditions to the precision of quartz. Its slim profile allows it to slide effortlessly under a shirt cuff.
Key Features
TV-screen case shape, 'De Ville Quartz' branding at 6 o'clock, ultra-thin case, and the absence of a seconds hand for a minimalist look.
Dial Description
Champagne/Gold sunburst dial with vertical brushing. Features printed or applied black baton indices and matching pencil/baton hands. No second hand, emphasizing formal dress aesthetics.
Case Material
Gold-plated (20 microns) or Gold-filled stainless steel with a polished finish.
Crystal Type
Flat mineral glass or sapphire depending on the specific reference year; typically shows edge beveling.
Bezel Details
Integrated fixed bezel, part of the case construction; gold-plated with a high-polished finish.
Crown & Pushers
Small, fluted push-pull crown, often gold-plated with the Omega logo. Some variants use a recessed pusher for setting minutes.
Bracelet or Strap
Black alligator or lizard-grain leather strap with a gold-tone tang buckle.
Caseback Details
Solid stainless steel snap-on caseback, usually brushed with minimal engravings; interior typically contains reference and caliber numbers.
Movement Type
Quartz Caliber 1332 or 1365 (typical of this era), often featuring a button-actuated time setting or push-in crown mechanism.
Water Resistance
Non-water resistant / Splash resistant only. Not suitable for swimming or immersion.
Origin & Provenance
Swiss Made; manufactured in Bienne, Switzerland using an in-house Omega quartz movement.
Age Estimate
Circa 1979 - 1982.
Cultural Significance
Represents the era when Swiss brands fought the 'Quartz Crisis' by merging traditional luxury finishing with then-cutting-edge electronic movements.
Condition Notes
Very Good. Visible minor wear on the gold plating at the lug edges; dial appears clean with no significant oxidation; strap is likely an aftermarket replacement.
Value Estimate
$300 - $600 USD depending on the integrity of the gold plating and service history.
Care & Maintenance
Requires battery changes every 2-3 years. Avoid water exposure as vintage seals are likely degraded. Keep away from strong magnets.
Similar Watches
Longines Presence Quartz, Cartier Tank Must (Quartz), Vintage Seiko Dolce.
Interesting Facts
The De Ville line was the first Omega collection to be designed without the 'Seamaster' name on the dial in the 1960s, establishing it as the brand's dedicated dress line.