Omega Seamaster Aqua Terra Homages & Alternatives
The Omega Seamaster Aqua Terra has been around for over a decade since they decided to create a more dress-oriented version of the classic model. Of course, most people still prefer the original, but since James Bond wore one in Skyfall, things have never quite been the same!
The challenge for the average Joe like you and me is getting sponsorship from Omega to wear on our next daring adventure. So, when that just does not happen (maybe one day) you have to resort to a more affordable Aqua Terra Homage or plain old alternative.
That is why I have scoured the web, on my hands and knees, to find you the best options available. So, let’s jump right in…
Our Top Picks
1. Vincero Kairos
Vincero is a relative newcomer to watchmaking, but what they lack in experience they make up for in price and ethos. They are direct to the public and super-affordable.
There are two kinds of watches on this list, ones that have the Aqua Terra dial pattern, and others that are all-round great homages in other areas. This is one of the latter.
With the fine minute track on the outside of the dial and the tapered hour markers, the Vincero Kairos looks the part from the outset. The 3 o’clock date window is also reminiscent of some Aqua Terras, although Omega is promoting the 6 o’clock position of late.
All in all, this is a very affordable alternative to the original that will look great on people with slightly larger wrists.
- Specifications
- Japanese Miyoto Quartz movement
- Mineral crystal
- Stainless steel case with Italian leather band
- Water resistant to 50m (165ft)
- Case size: 43 x 9mm
2. Hamilton Jazzmaster Viewmatic
(H32515555)
Hamilton are no strangers to high-quality watch making and certainly know how to produce an Omega inspired watch. This version of the Jazzmaster combines both the overall Aqua Terra look, as well as having a dial pattern that helps produce a true homage of the original.
There are some slight differences in this watch though, including tapering at the base of the hour markers and a Guilloché patterned dial which only covers the area inside the markers.
Overall though, it is a stunning rendition and well worth your consideration, especially if you are looking for a Swiss Made homage.
- Specifications
- Swiss Automatic movement (Caliber ETA 2824-2)
- Anti-reflective Sapphire crystal
- Alligator-embossed brown leather strap
- Date window at 3 o'clock
- Water resistance of 50 m (165ft)
- Case size: 40 x 11mm
3. Seiko Presage
(SRPB41)
This Seiko Presage is a great alternative to the Omega with all the makings of the Aqua Terra, but still having its own unique twist.
Starting with the dial, it is a stunning blue starburst instead of the patterned original. The hour markers, like the Jazzmaster above, are also tapered on both ends. The oversized crown is also quite a distinguishing feature, that you will either love or hate.
This watch is a little more affordable than the Hamilton, so worth your time to explore.
- Specifications
- Seiko automatic movement (Caliber 4R35B)
- Hardlex mineral crystal
- Day window at 3 o'clock
- Stainless steel case & strap with double push closure
- Water resistant to 50m (165ft)
- Case size: 41 x 12.7mm
4. Seiko Cocktail Time
(SARB065)
A very similar Seiko to the Presage above is the ever-popular dress watch that is nicknamed “Cocktail Time“. One of the many dress watches that Seiko offers.
Normally this particular model is only found in Japan, so you won’t see it on everyone’s wrist either.
It also has a stunning starburst dial and almost exactly the same markings too.
The only downside for some is the price, which is usually higher than many low-end Seikos, so you really have to want it!
- Specifications
- Seiko Automatic (6R15) hackable and hand-winding, with 50 hour power reserve
- Hardlex mineral crystal
- Date window at 3 o'clock
- Leather strap
- Water resistant to 50m (165ft)
- Case size: 40 x 13mm
5. Skmei Dress Watch
Skmei are a prolific Chinese watch maker that loves making homages of the classics. This particular watch is more of an alternative because it varies so much from the Omega, while still having some of the characteristics.
The fine minute train and sword-shaped hands are a great start. And the patterned dial, although not linear like the original, is striking nonetheless. The hour markers are done using crystals, which is again unique, but suits the style of this model to a tee.
This is one of those alternatives that anyone seeking the original won’t like, but I think is a stunning looking watch anyway.
- Specifications
- Japan Quartz Movement
- MINERAL crystal
- Date function at 6 o'clock
- Stainless steel case & BAND
- Water resistant to 30m (100ft)
- Case size: 37 x 10mm
6. Citizen Eco-Drive Titanium
(AW1490-50E)
Citizen are not to be left out in this article because they have some very worthy contenders when it comes to the Aqua Terra.
Starting at the center of the dial, we have a textured black dial extending all the way to the tips of the rectangular hour markers. Around the border is the characteristic Aqua Terra minute train. The small, but handy date window at 3 o’clock is nice to see. And the crown-guard adds an extra level of protection to a very robust, 100m water resistant watch.
On top of all of this, Citizen gives you a movement powered by light, so you won’t have to worry about batteries or winding your watch.
- Specifications
- Eco-drive (solar) powered movement
- Sapphire Crystal
- Date function at 3 o'clock
- Stainless steel bracelet with deployant & safety
- Water resistant to 100m (330ft)
- Case size: 42 x 11.5mm
7. Seiko SARX015
I mention this one last because it is very hard to come by, and so far, I have only found the odd one on Ebay.
Nonetheless, if you can get your hands on the Seiko SARX015, it is a very worthy homage indeed. In fact, it is one of the rare watches that actually has the grooved pattern of the original Aqua Terra, so many of you will lust after it just for that!
It also comes with some nice features like an automatic movement with 50 hour power reserve and a sapphire crystal.
- Specifications
- Seiko Automatic self-wind movement (Caliber 6R15)
- Sapphire crystal
- Stainless steel bracelet
- Date window at 4-5 o'clock
- Case size: 39.5 x 11.2 mm
- Water resistance: 100 m (300 ft)
