omega seamaster aqua terra blue 2018 | omega aqua terra automatic chronometer

The Omega Seamaster Aqua Terra collection is renowned for its versatility, blending sporty aesthetics with refined elegance. Within this celebrated line, certain models stand out, capturing a unique moment in time or embodying a particular design philosophy. The Omega Seamaster Aqua Terra Blue 2018, a limited edition timepiece commemorating the Pyeongchang Winter Olympics, holds a special place for collectors and enthusiasts alike. This article delves deep into the details of this captivating watch, exploring its design elements, technical specifications, market value, and its position within the broader Aqua Terra universe.

A Tribute to the Pyeongchang Winter Olympics

The Omega Seamaster Aqua Terra Blue 2018 is more than just a beautiful watch; it's a horological tribute to the spirit of the Olympic Games. Produced in a limited run, this model was specifically designed to celebrate Omega's role as the official timekeeper of the Pyeongchang 2018 Winter Olympics. The most distinctive feature, and what immediately sets it apart from other Aqua Terra models, is the subtle yet powerful integration of Olympic symbolism.omega seamaster aqua terra blue 2018

The dial, finished in a captivating shade of blue, emulates the teak-concept design that has become a hallmark of the Aqua Terra collection. This design evokes the feeling of a luxury yacht's deck, with vertically brushed lines that add depth and texture. However, the real magic lies within the minute track. Here, using the five iconic colours of the Olympic Rings (blue, yellow, black, green, and red), the words “PYEONGCHANG 2018” are meticulously inscribed. What makes this detail even more noteworthy is the fact that the numerals "20" and "18" are rendered in a bolder font, subtly highlighting the year of the games. This seemingly small detail elevates the watch from a general Aqua Terra to a true commemorative piece.

Design and Aesthetics: A Detailed Look

Beyond the Olympic inscription, the Omega Seamaster Aqua Terra Blue 2018 retains the classic Aqua Terra design cues that have made the collection so popular. The case, available in both 41mm and 38mm sizes, is crafted from stainless steel and features a combination of brushed and polished surfaces, creating a sophisticated interplay of light. The polished bezel adds a touch of elegance, while the brushed case flanks provide a sporty and robust feel.

The dial, as mentioned previously, is a deep, rich blue, offering excellent legibility in various lighting conditions. The applied hour markers, shaped like stylized arrowheads, are filled with Super-LumiNova, ensuring optimal visibility in the dark. The polished hands, also filled with Super-LumiNova, complement the hour markers and further enhance readability.

A date window, located at the 3 o'clock position, is seamlessly integrated into the dial design. While some purists prefer a cleaner, no-date dial, the date function adds practicality to the watch, making it a versatile everyday companion.

The sapphire crystal, treated with anti-reflective coating on both sides, provides a clear and unobstructed view of the dial. This coating minimizes glare and reflections, allowing the wearer to fully appreciate the intricate details of the dial.

The caseback, also made of sapphire crystal, offers a glimpse into the heart of the watch – the Omega Co-Axial Master Chronometer Calibre 8800 (or 8801 in some versions). This movement is not only visually appealing but also represents the pinnacle of Omega's technical expertise.

The watch is typically offered with either a stainless steel bracelet or a blue rubber strap. The bracelet, with its three-link design and brushed and polished finish, provides a comfortable and secure fit. The rubber strap, on the other hand, offers a sportier and more casual look, making it ideal for active lifestyles. Both options are equipped with a butterfly clasp, ensuring a secure and comfortable closure.

The Heart of the Matter: The Omega Calibre 8800/8801

The Omega Seamaster Aqua Terra Blue 2018 is powered by the Omega Co-Axial Master Chronometer Calibre 8800 (or 8801 in some cases). This movement is a testament to Omega's commitment to innovation and precision. It represents a significant step forward in watchmaking technology, offering exceptional accuracy, reliability, and resistance to magnetic fields.

The Calibre 8800/8801 is a self-winding movement with a Co-Axial escapement, a technology developed by the renowned watchmaker George Daniels. The Co-Axial escapement reduces friction within the movement, resulting in improved accuracy and longer service intervals.

The movement is also certified as a Master Chronometer by METAS (Swiss Federal Institute of Metrology). This certification involves a rigorous testing process that goes beyond the traditional COSC (Contrôle Officiel Suisse des Chronomètres) certification. METAS testing includes exposing the watch to magnetic fields of up to 15,000 gauss, ensuring that it maintains its accuracy even in highly magnetic environments.

The Calibre 8800/8801 boasts a power reserve of 55 hours, allowing the watch to run for over two days without being wound. The movement is also equipped with a silicon balance spring, which is non-magnetic and resistant to temperature changes.