Introducing: A New Trio Of Black Lacquer-Dialed Omega Seamaster Aqua Terra Watches
Omega has quietly introduced a trio of updated Seamaster Aqua Terra models to its catalog. These three new references cover the full size range in the Aqua Terra lineup, feature all the upgrades found in the Shades collection, and add a new micro-adjustment system for the bracelet. But whereas the Shades quintet had a lot of fun in the sun playing with color, this latest three-watch launch is staying in, playing Radiohead on repeat, putting eye-liner on, and painting its nails black. But just because these watches offer a moody contrast to their colorful relatives doesn’t mean one (or several) of them won’t be your new favorite Seamaster Aqua Terra.
A little less than two years ago, Omega delighted us with a newly streamlined Aqua Terra in a quintet of colors. The Shades collection brought new life to this most adaptable of Seamasters. In contrast to its more purpose-driven 300M counterpart, the Aqua Terra has always been a more style-focused choice. It’s a perfect pick for those not so concerned with how deep they can dive and who are just looking for a solid everyday watch that they can wear just as happily to the office as they can on the weekend. It’s a Seamaster of all trades. Recently, the AT took to the track with a Swedish livery and new seconds hand to honor European champion pole vaulter Armand “Mondo” Duplantis ahead of the 2024 Olympic Games. And now, its latest form is combined with glossy black lacquered dials for an ultimate uptick in versatility.
Omega Seamaster Aqua Terra watches with black lacquer dials
So, what’s new about this latest trio of Omega Seamaster Aqua Terra watches? Well, as the title already revealed, it’s the addition of black lacquer dials to the latest 34, 38, and 41mm models. A black-dialed Aqua Terra is not an entirely new concept. The 38mm (ref. 220.10.38.20.01.001) and 41mm (ref. 220.10.41.21.01.001) already existed in this colorway. However, those two models featured the AT’s signature teak-deck-inspired striped dial. These new references (220.10.38.20.01.004 and 220.10.41.21.01.002, respectively) do away with the stripes in favor of a minimalistic glossy black finish. However, it’s not all a matter of less is more. The two larger models also reflect the upgrades the Shades collection introduced just over a year and a half ago. These include the applied date window and slimmed-down, tapering bracelet. All three have screw-down crowns, display case backs, and 150m water resistance.
The 34mm model (ref. 220.10.34.20.01.001) has the distinct features of the smaller Aqua Terras. These include a circular applied frame around the 6 o’clock date window and petal-shaped applied markers. These offer a slightly less sharp and angular alternative to the larger model’s multifaceted shark-tooth-like triangular markers. Interestingly, this smaller model also uses a smooth dial. This, combined with the black colorway, makes it slightly more unisex than the other 34mm variants. These have a soft sunburst brush finish and come almost exclusively in pastel tones. The two smaller models (34mm and 38mm) use Omega’s self-winding 8800 caliber. Inside the 41mm version, you’ll find the 8900 caliber, which provides five additional hours of power reserve (60 hours) and an independently adjustable hour hand.
Final thoughts
One final noteworthy upgrade is a new comfort-adjust system built into the butterfly deployant clasp. As you can see in the image below, a second pair of pushers in the clasp allows for a slight tool-free adjustment. This welcome addition will hopefully make its way to all other Seamaster Aqua Terra models that share this bracelet.
Honestly, there’s not much else to be said about this latest low-key release from Omega. I feel that they offer a slightly less sporty and more elegant alternative to the striped-dialed models already in the catalog. It makes sense that they do so in the latest form of the AT, which is already slightly more elegant thanks to the fully polished case and slimmer redesigned bracelet. Having an extra option is never a bad thing. And though the Aqua Terra collection already covers an incredibly wide range in color, size, and strap options, it now comes even closer to having a model for everyone’s taste. All three of today’s versions share a price tag of €7,300, which aligns with the latest model introduced in the Shades collection.
One final detail to note is the difference in lug spacing among these models, which is 20mm in the 41mm, 19mm in the 38mm, and 16mm in the 34mm model. What do you think of this latest trio of Omega Seamaster Aqua Terra watches? Are you a fan of the glossy black dials? Let us know in the comments section below.
