The replica Omega‘s Aqua Terra has been a versatile normal man since it first surfaced in 2003, stylish and sartorial, but tough enough for the real world. This year the collection leveled-up to Master Chronometer status and we thought we’d take this sparkly 41mm rubber-clad model for a spin.
The dial
The most obvious significant changes have been decorated on the dial. The AT’s instantly recognizable striped finish is still there, only now it’s horizontal rather than vertical – a decision that the fake Omega explained by saying it was going to evoke yacht decking. While that’s a good story, for me the horizontal just looks better, no other reason needed. Speaking of this striping, one thing I noticed only when I was looking through Jason’s shots of this watch is that the lines of the dial aren’t even. Some are thick and some are thin, creating the optical illusion of a vanishing point at the center of the dial.
The case
The case of the Aqua Terra hasn’t changed obviously, and it’s still the same classic shape, with sporty, swooping, twisted lugs and polished surfaces aplenty. It’s a combination of casual style and dressy finish that helps the Aqua Terra’s chameleon-factor.
The strap
A rubber strap is a rubber strap, right? Well, it turns out not all straps are made at the same level and this particular version is very much at (or near) the top of the class. At first, I thought it was one of those irritating proprietary straps, thanks to the metal end-piece, and I was preparing myself for some old-fashioned righteous indignation. The other nice features of the strap are the tropic-style print, and the wave-like ridges on the underside, a nice wearer-friendly touch.
The movement
The big story with the movement is that the whole line is now Master Chronometer certified, in line with the replica Omega’s push for technical innovation. What this means is that the whole watch) has been tested within an inch of its life to METAS standards, covering off accuracy in numerous positions and state of power reserve, water, and magnetic resistance as well as the efficacy of the automatic winding.
The verdict
I’ve always thought that the replica Omega excels at making fake watches with the actual wearer in mind, and this design approach is the secret to the Aqua Terra’s undeniable charm. The proportions are nigh on perfect, it’s legible, technically superb, and user-friendly. The fact that it looks amazing just seals the deal.