Watches have always been an essential tool for measuring time, but when it comes to traveling around the world, something more is required for the discerning collector. Omega has filled this need with its Seamaster Aqua Terra Worldtimer collection, which combines time zone functionality with a fascinating design. In 2023, the Biel-based company introduces three new models that are sure to catch the attention of travel lovers and collectors. Let’s discover together the features of these watches.
Design of the dial
One of the most distinctive aspects of the new Seamaster Aqua Terra Worldtimer models, as with their predecessors, is their three-dimensional dial. In making them, Omega used a technique called laser ablation in order to create a representation of the Earth as observed from the North Pole. Accurately colored continents emerge from a grade 5 titanium surface. A careful observer may notice that the globe mapping is curved to replicate the shape of our planet and render a more three-dimensional appearance.
In the center of the dial, the hesalite crystal shows a 24-hour display divided into day and night sections. Surrounding the dial are the names of numerous global destinations, including Omega’s headquarters in Biel, Switzerland. All city names are colored yellow gold or white, except for “LONDON,” which is highlighted in red to represent Greenwich Mean Time.
The titanium watch
One of the three new models features a lightweight, corrosion-resistant titanium case. The gray and black dial, obtained by laser ablation, has a matte finish and features a scratch-resistant black ceramic bezel. The hands and hour markers are filled with white Super-LumiNova, which emits a blue luminescence in the dark. A black textured rubber strap with gray stitching and a titanium buckle complete the model.
The use of titanium in a Worldtimer complication is a first for Omega, and the risk, at least looking at the result, seems to have paid off.
The steel models
However, Omega has decided that lovers of a more classic style can opt for two stainless steel models (although it appears to be one). Both feature a 43 mm case, as with the titanium model. For the steel variant, however, it is not the black but the green that takes center stage. We find it on the sunburst brushed finish dial and on the scratch-resistant ceramic bezel. The hour markers and hands are made of 18K Moonshine gold, giving additional luminosity to the dial.
The only real difference between the two steel versions is that one model has an integrated metal bracelet, while the other has a green rubber strap with gray stitching and a polished, brushed folding clasp.
Caliber and performance
The beating heart of all Seamaster Aqua Terra Worldtimer models is the OMEGA Co-Axial Master Chronometer caliber 8938. This movement is METAS-certified to the highest standards of precision. In addition to precision, the movement offers resistance to magnetic fields up to 15,000 Gauss. A little parenthesis that makes me smile, think that in the 1950s a resistance to 1000 Gauss was considered an incredible innovation. Coming back to us, each watch is water resistant to 15 bar (150 meters), ensuring excellent performance even in the depths.
Beware, 150 meters of water resistance does not allow you to really dive to those depths with your watch. To understand how the calculation of water resistance in watches works, I invite you to read our dedicated article.
Price and availability
Model prices are EUR 13,600.00 for the Seamaster Worldtimer in titanium, EUR 11,900.00 for the steel variant with an integrated bracelet, and finally EUR 11,700.00 for the steel variant with a rubber strap
Our opinion
The three new models in the OMEGA Seamaster Aqua Terra Worldtimer collection are further evidence of OMEGA’s commitment to offering high-quality watches that meet the needs of travelers and watch enthusiasts. Definitely, the real innovation lies in the use of titanium, which is very appealing to me and goes perfectly with the idea of a travel watch. Feeling lighter on the wrist is definitely a convenience for frequent travelers.
Moreover, we are talking about having a world hour complication in titanium at a price of less than 14,000.00 euros, which makes this watch even more fascinating. It makes me wonder what the price would be with an integrated titanium bracelet.
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