The Omega Seamaster Aqua Terra Ultimate Guide

After the first Aqua Terra models were discontinued in 2010, a new model followed in the same year: the AT "Skyfall" - we call it Skyfall because it was worn by Daniel Craig in the Skyfall James Bond movie in 2012 (ref 231.10.39.21.03.001, blue model). Omega introduced a lot of changes in this model:

• The dial featured a pattern made of vertical stripes
• A date window frame was added
• The shape of the hands was changed to make them look more sporty, their tip has been cut and they now expose a flat surface
• A 60-minute graduation appeared on the outside of the hour markers
• The shapes of the hour markers is very prominent and they are now covered with lume.
• Finally an entirely new movement was built: the Omega 8500 co-axial movement.

Unlike the 2500 which was based on an existing calibre (ETA 2892), the 8500 movement has been designed from scratch. It features a new co-axial escapement assembly with 3 levels as George Daniels designed it. Through the transparent case back, you can see 2 spring barrels that ensure precision even when power runs low. The power reserve of the Omega 8500 is 60 hours and the watch is COSC certified as you would expect.

This model was available in 2 sizes:

• 38.5mm (ref 231.10.39.21.XX.XXX with 19mm lug width)
• 41.5mm (ref 231.10.42.21.XX.XXX with 20mm lug width)

The thickness of the watch increased to 12.85mm with the 8500 movement, due to the 3 level co-axial escapement. As you can see from the pictures, there is a significant difference in height between the two models. The 2500 model is thin and discrete, whereas the 8500, with its bold and relatively chunky feel, has definitely more wrist presence.

The lugs of the Skyfall AT got shortened, making the 38.5mm model more adapted for smaller wrists than its 39.5mm diameter predecessor.

Following the Omega Seamaster Aqua Terra Skyfall model came the Aqua Terra Spectre model. As the name of the series suggests, it was worn during James Bond movie Spectre (2015) (ref 231.10.39.21.03.002 blue model).

There are subtle differences from the previous iteration:

• The date frame disappeared
• The movement started to incorporate anti-magnetic components - such as a silicon (Si14) balance spring - providing a resistance up to 15000 Gauss.

At that point, the movement revisions of the Omega 8500 movement had moved from A to B then directly to G - 8500G being the 15000 Gauss movement, there is no C version.

Moreover, the bracelet now features a polished center link, all previous models had an entirely brushed bracelet until this model. This model was available in the same dimensions as the Skyfall ones: 38.5mm and 41.5mm and 13mm thick.

A few special editions models have been issued in that form factor, including the "Golf" edition (ref 231.12.42.21.01.003) and the James Bond "Spectre" edition (ref 231.10.42.21.03.004) limited to 15007 pieces.

In 2017 a new version of the Aqua Terra was released, providing with a new dial that features a horizontal pattern of grooves of varying width - the so-called teak pattern, supposedly inspired by the wooden decks of luxury sailboats.

The visual balance of the watch got improved with a symmetrical case design and a date window moved to the 6 o'clock position.

This new model is available on steel bracelet, leather strap and a very cool looking rubber strap.

Under the hood, a new movement will be found: the Omega calibre 8900 powers 41mm models whereas the calibre 8800 is in the 38mm diameter models.

Both movements are anti-magnetic up to 15000 Gauss, however some differences between those movements can be found:

• The 8900 movement is higher and wider than the 8800.
• The 8800 movement has a slightly smaller power reserve of 55hours compared to 60hours for the 8900.
• The 8900 has a jumping hour hand, allowing you to very quickly change time zones without affecting the minute hands.

Moreover the 8800 and 8900 movements undergoes a certification process stricter than the COSC certification: the METAS certification, which is granted by the Swiss Federal Institute of Metrology.