Omega announces another extension to the Aqua Terra line – this time, models with small seconds, in large and small cases, in precious metals, stainless steel and combinations of the two.
The original release of the Omega Seamaster model in 1948 was originally designated as one of the first lifestyle watches of its time, able to withstand splashes and submersion during playtime with the family. Omega’s latest release, which is part of the Aqua Terra line has some passing resemblances to this original model in its dial design, with the modern sensibilities of Master Chronometer certification, and a wide variety of dials and materials to choose from.
At the 38mm end of the size spectrum, there are eight watches in either stainless steel or combinations of Sedna Gold and stainless steel, with new dials in dark or light green, a “linen” finished dial that appears almost beige or champagne in its colouring, as well as a white mother of pearl dial – all available with different levels of diamond setting for the hour markers, as well as the subdial ring. These models are available on a choice of leather or metal bracelets, depending on your preference, and your penchant for colour. There are an additional two models that are executed completely in Omega’s Sedna Gold with diamond set bezels, one on bracelet with a purple jade dial, and one on a red alligator strap with white mother of pearl. All are powered by the 880X movements (the 8802 for the steel and bi-colour metal models, and the 8803 for the precious metal models), that are Master Chronometer certified, equipped with the signature Co-Axial Escapement, designed for longevity, and better chronometry over time.
The new 41mm models continue the design traits of the “teak deck” pattern on the dial, echoing the finishing found on some of the most finely manufactured watercraft. Four models are available in steel, and one in stainless steel and Sedna Gold – compared to the original models of the Aqua Terra, majority of these models have been given two-tone dials: blue-grey, silvery-blue and silvery-beige (although one model in this lineup has been given an all-silver coloured dial with black markers). Depending on the model, they will be fitted with a metal bracelet, or a complementary-coloured integrated rubber strap with a woven texture on a deployant clasp. Another four models are crafted out of Sedna Gold, with a two-toned dial in blue-grey or silvery-beige, and are available with a luxurious Sedna Gold bracelet, or an integrated rubber strap. As with all new Omega mechanical movements, the 8916/8917 movements in these watches are Master Chronometer certified, and contain the brand’s much-lauded Co-Axial escapement.
Opinion
When the team at ISOCHRONO first saw these models, we were initially frightened that Omega had completely replaced the Aqua Terra line of watches with these new models with small seconds subdials. Whilst we can see somewhat of a historical link, we truly feared that a mainstay of the brand would be changed yet again. Thankfully, this remains an extension of this classic collection, and will only serve to give watch-buyers more choice when they arrive at the boutique. The Aqua Terra is certainly the choice of someone who wants versatile elegance for everyday wear, and opinions will certainly be divided as to what model looks most elegant (out of the centre seconds model, or the small seconds model).
Overall, this new Seamaster Aqua Terra model brings more variety to the collection, experimenting with new colours, whilst bringing the dependability that modern Omega watches are known for. For those looking for everyday elegance, you would be hard-pressed to go past the Aqua Terra collection as a whole, and it is only made stronger with more choices than ever.
Movement/s
38mm models: Omega Co-Axial Master Chronometer 8802 /8803 (Sedna Gold Models, featuring Sedna Gold Balance Bridge and Sedna Gold Rotor
41mm models: Omega Co-Axial Master Chronometer 8916 /8917 (Sedna Gold Models, featuring Sedna Gold Balance Bridge and Sedna Gold Rotor
Functions
Hours, minutes, small seconds, date
Dial/s
38mm models in steel/steel and Sedna Gold: Dark green, light green, linen, ‘extra white’ mother of pearl
38mm models in Sedna Gold: Purple jade or ‘extra white’ mother of pearl
41mm models in steel: blue-grey, all-silver, silvery-blue and silvery-beige
41mm models in steel/Sedna Gold: blue-grey
41mm models in Sedna Gold: blue-grey, silvery-beige
Case
Stainless steel, Stainless steel and Sedna Gold, Sedna Gold
Case Dimensions
38mm and 41mm diameter
Strap
38mm models: Alligator strap on deployant or metal bracelet
41mm models: Integrated textured rubber strap on deployant or metal bracelet