Stepping back from the dial, we can notice several more changes. For purposes of coherence, whenever I show a photo of all four Aqua Terras, they will always be in this order. When you plan to wear a watch every day, comfort is a key consideration.The case is also now symmetric… That could simply be luck on my part, and I’m not willing to come to any conclusions about all new Aqua Terras having improved lume, but if any of you happen to have a new and an old model available, maybe give it a shot yourself and see if you get the same result. DE. Even though these are entry-level watches from their respective brands, you still get an extremely high-quality movement as you would get if you bought a 25k$+ timepiece. The Omega AT is currently available in 9 variations: four 38mm models and five 41mm models. It’s possible that Omega was trying to incorporate that non-uniformity in real boat decks into their dials. That’s precisely what Omega did here, and the new date window is better because of it. The existence of teak lines on the dial of the Aqua Terra was designed to evoke ideas of boat decks and an overall nautical feel. The AT8500 introduced vertical lines to the Aqua Terra, a decision that would actually become very influential throughout the watch industry. If you Google boat decks (go ahead, I’ll wait) you’ll find that there are usually larges wooden areas that break with the overall repetition of lines, often down the middle or edge. The Oyster Perpetual's 3130/32 movement packs a bunch of Rolex in-house technologies, such as the Parachrom hairspring (increases precision), Paraflex Shock absorber and bi-directional oscillating weight. These are basically tiny springs that help the most sensitive components of the watch deal with harsh impacts. This will give us a very broad comparison of the dual worlds the Aqua Terra inhabits, that of dress and that of sport, not only with members of the same generation but with members of the preceding one. In order to compete with other highly coveted sport watches like the Rolex Submariner, OMEGA has consistently focused their attention on developing their Seamaster line. The update on the clasp of the bracelet is a bit more obvious, opting for an Omega logo and Omega written out. We can't deny how strong Rolex's brand is. The new model, however, uses horizontal lines. Instead, it was the Aqua Terra, and to a lesser … Omega Aqua Terra 8900 Review Read More » The screws can also be used to change the poise of the balance. For reasons unknown, it seems like the new models glow slightly brighter than the old ones. Conversely, the Oyster Perpetual uses the same lug width on every variation. Click to Browse our Large Selection of Omega Aqua Terra Watches for Men. Steel (1) No details (22) Dial numerals. The Aqua Terra is much more polyvalent, with the option to get patterned rubber straps, leather bands, stainless steel bracelets and even a rose gold model. This means the AT and the OP will look about the same size on your wrist, even though the Omega is bigger on paper. But the Aqua Terra is at least as good – if not better – in any technical sense. Seamaster Aqua Terra Co-Axial Yellow Gold and Stainless Steel Automatic $8,900. 511. Not that case backs are scratch magnets to begin with, but the new brushed finish is probably going to stay looking new a little longer than its polished predecessor. On our left we have a dressier model, but with its rubber strap and high-contrast dial it hasn’t lost touch with its sporting roots either. The update to the leather and rubber models is extremely subtle and you’re not likely to notice it unless you’re looking for it. The Omega Seamaster Aqua Terra is available in two case sizes; 38mm and 41mm. Yet, the rough circle surrounding the Omega logo does quite the opposite, promoting a more aggressive, “tool” look. For reasons unknown, the Speedmaster didn’t have that hold on me. The free sprung balance is closely associated with high-end in-house movements, although we’ve seen some proliferation of this design in somewhat more accessible pieces like Tudor’s North Flag. The teak pattern imprinted on the dial of every variation of the Aqua Terra is inspired by a boat's hull. That, on its own, is fairly unremarkable, but if you look carefully you’ll appreciate the subtle increase in complexity in the 3.0’s lines, using uneven thickness of stripes to add a degree of visual intrigue to the dial. Its ocean spirit can be seen throughout the design, while the finest materials and movements have been used in creation. As you may know, rhodium is much more expensive than gold as it gives better scratch and tarnishing prevention. One change you might … The two Aqua Terra models vary by a millimeter when it comes to lug width. Suffice it to say, the size difference is not meaningful unless you happen to be holding each watch next to the other. I will compare every aspect of those two classics and determine a winner in each category. I recommend taking it for a service every 5-7 years, but some say modern models are good for 10 years between services. For example, there are models with cases and bracelets made from stainless steel or titanium, 18-karat red, yellow, or Sedna gold, as well as bicolor models made from 18-karat gold and stainless steel. i’ll never sell it (so i say) but its good to know it holds value so well. 220.10.38.20.01.001 Case: 38 mm, stainless steel Movement: automatic Caliber 8800 with co-axial escapement and free sprung balance featuring silicon balance spring; official METAS certification as a chronometer, 3.5 Hz/25,200 vph frequency; 55 hours power reserve OMEGA Aqua Terra – $5700 [NB: model tested is the previous gen version. While I don’t expect everyone to prefer the new dial to the old one, I think it’s a great addition. The Aqua Terra line from Omega is incredibly diverse. In most cases, like Rolex or Omega (by far the most numerous users of the design in terms of movements produced), tiny screws in the rim of the balance can be moved. Worry not, this article will lay out the facts to help you make an informed decision you won't regret. Another interesting aspect of modern Omega movements is their use of the Nivachoc shock system, compared to the extremely common Incabloc or Kif shocks. As you can see above, Rolex kept very few aspects of the original model, as the styling of the two generations is completely different. Another positive change, at least in my view, is the elimination of the 150m/500ft writing on the dial, creating a slightly cleaner look. This is something Omega has been gradually working towards for years now and other versions of the AT (i.e. I think the Omega AT is a clear winner in this category. It's interesting to note that the lug-to-lug length is practically the same for both watch lines. You can now find them marked up on the pre-owned market. Retail: $5,400.00 (SAVE … Whether you go rubber or steel, you’ll get a new clasp. Basically, when you buy a Master Chronometer, you’re getting a guarantee that the watch is highly resistant to magnetism and at least as water resistant as it claims to be, in addition to the accuracy you expect from any “ordinary” chronometer. SARB017 vs SBDC091 (SPB121), Omega Speedmaster Homage: The 5 Best Alternatives, The Seiko SNKK4X Review (SNKK41/43/45/47). The new end link is slightly shorter than the last one, and the first center link is now much smaller. OMEGA affirms its leading position in the watchmaking industry with its Seamaster Aqua Terra > 15,000 Gauss, the world's first truly anti-magnetic mechanical watch. Our wide selection is eligible for free shipping and free returns. New comments cannot … It’s the difference between quarantine and a vaccine. Both watch lines are offered in 11 different color schemes. The previous version was actually larger at 41.5mm, so this slight reduction in size is welcome. In terms of my own measurements, the thickness is basically unchanged within my margin of error. I prefer free sprung balances for the more abstract reason that I view them as a simpler, more elegant, design. Likewise, when buying the Rolex OP, you can choose between six 36mm models and five 39mm models. Not only is it well respected in the watch community, it is also very recognizable to the average Joe. share. To find out, I took two pairs of watches, a dressier 3.0 two-tone AT and a dressier 2.0 two-tone AT, as well as two sporty, more colorful variants, on bracelet. This watch was featured in the James Bond movies Skyfall and Spectre, on the wrist of actor Daniel Craig. All-New Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch Professional! Or is it the Aqua Terra 8900? Instead, it was the Aqua Terra, and to a lesser degree, the Planet Ocean, that got me hooked on Omega. OMG0465C – Aqua Terra 38mm. Also, I think it's a shame not to be able to see your watch's movement at work, particularly when it is a precisely crafted piece of art, as is the case with both these timepieces. Make sure you stay on top of maintenance for your OP and it will take good care of you for decades to come. They are so good in fact, having to choose between them can be paralyzing. 98% Upvoted. The symbol OMEGA stands for the last, best or final nature of something. I could, of course, discuss the differences inherent to each model, but there are a wide variety of new and old Aqua Terras and we’d be here for ages. For its part, the current Oyster Perpetual is loosely based on the design of the original Rolex Oyster, which goes back to the 1920s. Nonetheless, it still has better water-proofing than the Rolex. Those two are very similar movements, except for the smaller power reserve of the 8800. Please check your entries and try again. This has the effect of making the watch much more symmetrical. This “link” seems to be available on any of the new Aqua Terras if you order it on a rubber strap. Whether the Aqua Terra is that or not is your call. For fans of Omega, this won’t be a lot of new information, but in case this is your first time seriously examining a modern Omega watch, you might find this useful. Personally, I love this approach. It was released in 2003, sporting the first co-axial movement developed by Omega: the Omega 2500. Both the Omega Aqua Terra and the Rolex Oyster Perpetual are exceptional watches situated in a similar price range. As I mentioned above, Omega offers versions of the Seamaster Aqua Terra in both 38mm and 41mm (41.5mm actually) wide models. In theory, the balance bridge is the stronger, more robust design, but few manufacturers, aside from Rolex, Tudor and Omega anyway, use it. The latter also uses a gold casing, which predictably comes with a steep price increase. The Aqua Terra and the Oyster Perpetual are both offered in different sizes. good review. From bottom left to right we see the 231.23.42.21.02.001 and the 231.10.42.21.01.004. Master Chronometer status is not a new alternative to the COSC chronometer rating, but an additional certification on top of it. Master Chronometer certification guarantees that your watch’s power reserve meets its stated specs, this 8900’s 60 hours for instance, and also tests for accuracy between high and low parts of the power reserve. It’s more than enough to be practical, although not enough to make it a diver either. Furthermore, the timekeeping on both watches is as precise as you need, so there is no real reason to choose one watch over the other for this feature alone. Differences aside, this is still a very solid amount of lume for a watch that could realistically be worn to any occasion. Of course, those two timepieces are equipped with sapphire crystals, which is expected from such luxury brands. Rolex uses its in-house lume application, called Chromalight, which is easily as good as the Super-Luminova. On top of the obvious basic accuracy tests, three separate tests examine the watch during and after exposure to a 15,000 Gauss magnetic field, and I think it’s this anti-magnetism that stands out most to people about Master Chronometers. It has the advantage of greater stability compared to its more common regulated counterpart, all things being equal anyway. According to the manufacturer, the Seamaster AT is designed to pay homage to Omega's maritime heritage. In either case, both new and old models are good for 150 meters, 50% more than almost every other watch in this class. For that you’ll need a Planet Ocean, but for just about anything else this will do very well. Lug to lug length did decrease measurably though, at 47.5mm versus 48mm on the older models. Estimated Value of Omega Aqua Terra Watches. The big update is the testing and guarantees that come with the watch. report. Omega Aqua Terra 150M Co-Axial Master Chronometer 38mm The ladies' Seamaster Aqua Terra is the true definition of elegance. But do note a subtle change to the end link of the bracelets. I’ve covered this topic pretty thoroughly in my Globemaster and Planet Ocean reviews, so for more information, please check those out. I recommend the small version of those watches for people in the 5.75'' - 6.5'' wrist range, while men with 6.5''+ wrists should go for the larger version. To combat this, free sprung movements use something called a variable inertia balance wheel, which has some form of adjustment built directly onto the balance. I’m not sure what advantages this has, but a change this under the radar must have had a practical reason, and the only possible one I can imagine is that it’s stronger or more secure, as it’s exactly as easy to use as the last version. I actually love both of these models, but I suspect that my favorite is one I haven’t had a chance to see yet, the silver-dialed 220.10.41.21.06.001. First introduced in 2002, the Aqua Terra collection strikes the perfect balance between sophistication and ocean spirit. Designed with balanced simplicity and comfort in mind, the Omega Aqua Terra watches are a refreshingly clean redesign of the classic Omega Seamaster family. Both the shape and signature are different. If you fork out an additional $100, you will instead get a patterned rubber strap with your Omega. More precisely, the Oyster was released back in 1926, as the world's first waterproof watch. At this price, your AT is equipped with a leather band. It has a slightly better case, a slightly better (or at least, better-tested) movement, and a fresh new dial that suits its nautical theme better than ever. Contact tmosso@thewatchbox.com for pricing and availability; Either I have it, or I can get it! Home » Omega » OMG0465C – Aqua Terra 38mm. https://bespokeunit.com/articles/watches/omega-seamaster-aqua-terra-review Whereas COSC testing is extremely accuracy-centric, METAS testing is toughness-centric. For practical purposes, then, they are the same size as they used to be. Thursday: 11 AM – 5 PM I actually tend to think that the horizontal lines here better capture the nautical feel that Omega is looking for, but not because they’re horizontal. I like the greater symmetry that comes with eliminating the recessed crown, for instance, and while it’s only marginally smaller than the model it replaces, I think it’s nonetheless a step (perhaps a half-step) in the right direction. The pricing gets a bit more complicated when looking at Omega's selection. Shock Resistance, Co-axial escapement, Anti-Magnetic, Shock absorber, Parachrom hairspring, Bi-directional wind. This is accomplished with the use of a screw-down crown, which is signed by the company in both instances. We’ll get to the 8900 movement in a moment, but first we should note the updated case back and writing. The movement is the biggest selling point of both the AT and the OP. Once a manufacturer has passed the COSC testing, it may then submit the movement, including the watch, for Master Chronometer testing by METAS, the Swiss Federal Institute of Metrology. 10-YEAR WARRANTY ON ALL PRE-ORDERED WATCHES - CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE. The next price point, $5,700 is for models equipped with the steel bracelet. I suppose we’ll see which label the watch collecting community prefers going forward. Omega has moved the mechanism out of the center of the butterfly clasp and onto the clasp itself (the part with the Omega logo). I personally prefer balance bridges, but that’s more the result of the fact that I think they look cooler than the alternative. Thicker on the wrist of actor Daniel Craig Rolex is equipped with the use of a screw-down,. 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