It is often said that Omega introduced the Aqua Terra collection to throw a competition to the revolutionary Rolex Datejust. Nonetheless, the Aqua Terra is exclusive in its own, with handsome look and water-resistance power. Omega unleashed this collection in 2002, representing a perfect combination of oceanic spirit and elegance.
The watches of this collection has been treasured and coveted over the years. The Omega Aqua Terra is also known to have featured in two James Bond films. Continue reading to explore more this popular collection in Omega’s catalogue.
Omega Seamaster Aqua Terra: Brief History
The Aqua Terra is officially referred to as the Omega Seamaster Aqua Terra 150M. The watch became an instant hit soon after its introduction thanks to its classic contemporary design. Yes, the Aqua Terra is a part of the Seamaster collection and water-resistant up to 150m.
But the interesting fact is that it is not a diver’s watch. In fact, the brand created it to be used as a modern watch for regular use and can go anywhere. However, the Aqua Terra is available in three main generations. Omega unleashed the latest one in 2017.
The Aqua Terra comes in a wide range of materials, sizes, functions as well as complications. Among them, the brand does not produce some editions any longer but are available in the pre-owned market.
Unique Features & Options of the Omega Aqua Terra
The modern Aqua Terra watches not only offer resistance to water but also to magnetic fields. They can combat magnetic fields to nearly 15,000gauss. So if you ask to name one of the best antimagnetic timepieces, it will be the Omega Aqua Terra.
On the other hand, thanks to the case-back construction and screw-down crown, the Aqua Terra is water-resistant to 500ft (150m). However, the watch does not come with a rotating bezel.
The versatility characterises the Omega Aqua Terra collection. The brand offers it in many variations. For instance, collectors can choose between stainless steel, yellow gold, Sedna gold and bi-tone models. You also have the choice between polyamide, leather, rubber and polyamide straps and metal bands.
Standard Features of the Omega Aqua Terra Chronometer Watches
- Round case and smooth bezel
- Date window
- Dials adorned with grooved lines and have three luminescent hands
- Tapered and luminescent hour markers
- Water-resistant to 150m
- Powered by an automatic movement.
Omega Aqua Terra References
- The First Series: 2002 – 2008
Omega launched the first generation of Aqua Terra watches, offering its first Co-Axial Calibre 2500 movement. Developed in the 1990s, this movement is thin and precise. Eventually, the first iterations of the Aqua Terra measured only 11mm thick.
What boosted the modern aesthetics of these watches were orderly dials and smooth bezel. The dial also featured a date display at 3 o’clock side and tapered hour markers. However, Omega offered the first generation Aqua Terra watches in two metal options (18ct yellow gold or stainless steel) and three case sizes (42.2mm, 39.2mm and 36.2mm)
- The Second Series: 2008 – 2017
Omega upgraded the Aqua Terra collection in 2008 offering a redevised dial, refined sizes and also, a new movement. The upgraded Calibre 8500 COSC-certified movement had two mainspring barrels, a quick-adjust hour hand and a 60-hour power reserve. However, the movement enhanced the thickness of the watch up to 12.85mm, making it look more robust.
Other significant upgrades include teak-patterned dial and a 60-minute scale. Furthermore, Omega fitted this series of Aqua Terra watches with a stainless steel three-link bracelet and a butterfly clasp.
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The Third Series: 2017 – Present
Omega made startling aesthetic upgrades to the latest Aqua Terra Chronometer watches. However, it retained the teak-patterned dial but flipped it horizontally.
The date display was also shifted to the 6 o’clock position like the first Omega date-display models. The watchmaker merely tried to hold on the classic aesthetic while keeping the dial symmetrical and uncluttered. Furthermore, the third-generation Aqua Terra watches have no conical winding crown and no crown guards.
The current Omega Aqua Terra watches feature three unique Master Chronometer Co-Axial movements. While the 41mm versions are powered by the Calibre 8900, the 38mm models are powered by Calibre 8800. However, the brand equipped precious metal versions of Aqua Terra with the Calibre 8901.
Now, the Calibre 8800 offers a power reserve up to 55hours. On the contrary, the Calibre 8900 and Calibre 8901 have power reserves up to 60hours.
Overall, the Omega Aqua Terra is one of the most popular collections of the brand. No doubt, the Aqua Terra watch is worth investing that can return you a premium in the second hand market in future.
