Launched in 1976 as part of their involvement as the timekeeper for the 1976 Montreal Olympics, the Omega Chrono-Quartz “Montreal Albatross” ref. 396.0839 was the world’s first ana-digi timepiece, powered by the quartz cal. 1611, a movement that Omega created specifically for the Albatross’ 15000 unit run. Boasting a unique rectangular stainless steel construction, the Albatross’ horizontal case measures 47mm wide and 34mm tall, with a black dial housing a digital chronograph display on at 9 o’clock side and an analogue time and date display on the 3 o’clock side. A timing instrument at heart, the Albatross, so-called due to its width (or wing-span), features a function-focused design that is thoughtfully executed and thoroughly unique on the wrist, speaking to the whacky designs that came to be in the 1970s.

Watch is in excellent overall condition. Case shows light surface wear, with slightly soft surfaces showing with small scratches and and marks visible. Some marks around the screws and screw holes along the caseback. The dial has darkened and discolored luminous, with hands that are in a matching tone. The bracelet comes wtih 3 removable links and fits an approx 7 1/2" wrist. Watch is accompanied by its original box and paperwork.

Unique, distinctive, and unapologetically on-task, the ref. 396.0839 is a visually interesting watch that highlights the time in history when watches and modern digital technology were coming together to create more accurate tools than we had ever seen before.