Known as the dressier alternative to the professional dive watches in the Omega Seamaster line, the Aqua Terra collection has long served largely as Omega’s straightforward, time-only option with aquatic capability. New for Baselworld 2017, the Omega Seamaster Aqua Terra Master Chronometer collection introduces three new pieces that feature subtle changes in aesthetics as well as minor tweaks to the overall design.
Certain updates are common to all three of the new Aqua Terra models. First, the teak dial concept, which Omega states is intended to allude to the teak decking on luxury yachts, is now oriented horizontally as opposed to vertically. Also, the date window has been moved from three o’clock to six o’clock, as an homage to the original Seamaster Automatic Calendar from 1952. The new dials also feature less text leading to a cleaner appearance. In addition to these dial layout changes, the case itself has been reshaped and the crown is now a slightly conical shape inspired by the wave edge design found around the exhibition sapphire crystal on the updated caseback (that we, unfortunately, don’t have images of yet).
The first of the new men’s Aqua Terra series has a 41mm stainless steel and 18k Sedna gold case with a silver-toned dial and black outlined luminous hands and indices. This model also sports a brand new fitted strap with a Sedna gold center link. The second new Aqua Terra is a 41mm stainless steel model with a silver-toned dial with black outlined luminous hands and indices as well as orange highlights throughout. This model will come on a brown leather strap with a deployant clasp. The last of the new Aqua Terra series is a 38mm blue-dialed stainless steel model with rhodium plated luminous hands and indices. This model features a newly redesigned, fitted bracelet intended to better suit wearers with smaller wrists.
The new models are now powered by either the Omega Master Chronometer Caliber 8800 or 8900 which are both coaxial escapement, silicon balance spring-equipped, Swiss Federal Institute of Metrology (METAS)-certified movements with 55 and 60 hours of power reserve, respectively.
In addition, Omega have promised a staggering thirty new ladies Aqua Terra models in 38mm, 34mm, and 28mm with the larger two case sizes also utilizing the Master Chronometer Caliber 8800. Although the changes in the Aqua Terra range are largely minor and cosmetic, Omega have subtly redesigned key elements like the case and bracelet and provided an upgraded movement across the Aqua Terra series to create a modernized take on one of their core offerings.
The Omega Seamaster Aqua Terra Master Chronometer collection will range in price from 5,000 CHF for the stainless steel models to 7,400 CHF for the stainless steel and Sedna gold model. omegawatches.com
