Hands-on review of the new Omega Aqua Terra Shades 38mm with live pictures and pricing information
After our introductory article where you can see the various dial colours, we had the opportunity to spend a few days with one of the new references, the Seamaster Aqua Terra Shades Co‑Axial Master Chronometer 38 mm with Saffron dial and we are now delighted to share our impressions and live pictures.
Measuring 38 mm in diameter and 12.3 mm in height, the watch is ideally sized for most wrists and wears very comfortably, thanks to its ergonomic profile. The entirely polished and symmetrical case is crafted from 316L stainless steel, appreciated for its corrosion-resistance and high lustre after polishing. The lines have been streamlined with softer edges that enhance the overall elegance of the ensemble.
The conical crown with embossed Omega symbol is screwed-in to ensure water resistance to 15 bar (150 metres / 500 feet), a performance that makes the watch suitable for daily-use and situations such as diving and adventure. First introduced in 2002, the Aqua Terra name expresses well the outstanding reliability of these timepieces both on water (Aqua) and on land (Terra).
The striking appearance of the dial, here in a warm Saffron colour similar to the yellow-orange hue of the stigmas of the saffron crocus flower, is the result of an innovative manufacturing process. Crafted from brass, the dial is first sun-brushed outwards from the centre and then enhanced by a layer of lacquer for extra depth.
The rhodium-plated hands and applied triangular indexes are filled with white Super-LumiNova that glows in blue in the dark. A trapezoidal date window at 6 o'clock completes the indications.
Virtually scratch-proof (graded 9 on the 1-10 Mohs hardness scale), the domed sapphire crystal that protects the dial has an anti-reflective treatment on both sides for an unhindered vision at all times.
Enhanced by a wave-edged design, the case back displays the advanced automatic movement through a transparent sapphire crystal glass making it possible to appreciate its rhodium plated finish with Geneva waves in arabesque.
Omega’s Co-Axial Master Chronometer Calibre 8800 operates at a frequency of 25,200 vibrations per hour (3.5 Hz) and mounts two barrels in series for a power reserve of 55 hours.
The Master Chronometer certification means that each watch and its movement has passed the strict tests set by the Swiss Federal Institute of Metrology (METAS). This guarantees the highest standard of quality, precision and magnetic resistance.
To achieve this certification, the movement is first tested by the Official Swiss Chronometer Control (COSC) with precision criteria of -4/+6 seconds per day. Then the complete watch and its movement undergo eight Master Chronometer tests set by the Swiss Federal Institute of Metrology (METAS) with criteria of 0/+6 seconds per day.
To protect the watch from magnetic fields up to 15,000 gauss, the movement features several components produced with antimagnetic materials, such as the silicon balance spring.
The stainless steel bracelet has also been redesigned for improved comfort and elegance, now featuring smaller and rounded links alternating satin brushed and polished surfaces. To secure it to the wrist, a triple folding clasp with double safety push-buttons. The lugs width is 19 mm.
The Seamaster Aqua Terra Shades Co‑Axial Master Chronometer 38 mm watch in stainless steel, retailing at Euro 7,200 (including VAT) / US$ 6,300 (excluding local sales taxes), is the result of exceptional craftsmanship, the use of high-quality materials and state-of-art watchmaking technologies. This, combined with strong demand for luxury steel watches that is determining a constant increase in the price list of top manufacturers, justifies the price point. omegawatches.com
This appears to be serious contender to the Oyster Perpetual, isn't it?
ReplyDeleteIndeed. Personally, we like it more.
DeleteDo we know if the bracelet of the 38 model fits the previous 2017 teak dial 38? I'd love to get a bracelet for mine but the flat 3 link that it comes on just isn't doing it for me.
ReplyDeleteIt should fit since the lug width is the same (19mm). We recommend that you double-check this with an Omega boutique by providing them with the exact reference of your watch.
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