[jt018]

What are your thoughts on the various Aqua Terra generations (generations 1-3)? I’m looking to pick up my first Aqua Terra and it’s been difficult to decide on generation 1 vs generation 3. I love the black lacquer dial in the first generation, but the teak dial has been growing on me a lot too. One thing I do prefer on the newer versions is the date window at 6 o'clock, as it provides a more symmetrical appearance to the dial in my opinion. I know Omega released a version with the lacquer finish recently (shown below), but if I had to choose, I still prefer the first generation slightly more.

If you had the choice, which one would you choose or which Aqua Terra are you wearing currently? And do you have any thoughts on the 2500 movement vs the newer 8800/8900 movements? Thanks in advance!

Generation 1

Generation 2

Generation 3

 

[kjse7en]

My favourite would be AT chrono in piano black dial!

Cheers
KJ

 

[kjse7en]

In angle with richer black hue

Cheers
KJ

 

[bts01]

I really like the gen 1, but the new shades and black aqt of gen 3 are great.

 

[0002s]

 

[Abhishek.b27]

I own an Aqua Terra Gen 3, which is a relatively rare special edition.

I however feel that the essence of a true do it all watch is the strongest in the Aqua Terra Gen 1.

 

[Munchie]

Voted 2nd generation

I used to think that I liked the 3rd generation the most because I like dates at 6 O'clock but despite this preference I think the second generation looks better.

The 3 O'clock positioning and orientation of the trapezium shaped date frame fits the dial and markers better than the 6 O'clock positioning of the date.

I also prefer the vertical teak dial over the horizontal line texture.

 

[dbonddental]

 

[Watcher01]

The Gen 3.I like how with the technological advancement we are lucky to see new shades of colors

 

[thx67]

Gen 3 for me. The wonky date window in the gen 2 disturbs me.

 

[BigDanT]

Man I think the look and feel of the GEN 1 ATs was just about perfect. They captured the GADA tool watch that can dress up better than just about anything else. If they had that with a new master coax movement I’d be all over it.
I just think the latest gen is too blingy with the high polish.

 

[Nokie]

Have all three generations and like them equally well, with maybe a slight preference towards the earlier ones because they are somewhat thinner and a bit more comfortable, but that is just my opinion.........

 

[charleston.c]

Gen 1 is approaching neo vintage which i like in concept. If cost isnt a consideration I'd probably get the new 38mm on black though.

 

[EuroDriver]

I couldn't vote. I have owned all 3 and each generation has its individual charm and shortcomings.

Gen 1 is so sleek and low profile but that clasp...

Gen 2's vertical teak dial is so much better than the newer gen and the bracelet is a huge improvement over the gen 1 but no adjustable clasp. Also, there's the option of brushed and PCL bracelet. The Skyfall is truly THE watch to have for me, thus making gen 2 my choice until...

Gen 3 (should really be categorized gen 4) lacquer dial - what a home run. I owned the horizontal teak dial and it did absolutely nothing for me compared to the Skyfall. Then they released the black lacquer dial. Just mesmerizing. I catch myself getting lost staring at the inky black sea it reflects. They also made the clasp adjustable but the design is rather poor. I also don't care much for the Jubilee-style bracelet. I'd rather wear it on the original gen 3 bracelet. I also wish they hadn't polished the entire case but it doesn't really bother me - I guess they're trying to keep up with the Grand Seiko competition.

As far as the movements between Gen 2's 8500 and gen 3's 8900 I don't think one is better than the other. In fact, my watches with the 8800 movement have generally been more accurate than most of my 8900's.

Currently, I love my gen 2 and gen 3 equally.

Gen 2 Skyfall 41mm on PCL bracelet

Latest gen black lacquer dial on older PCL bracelet

 

[Howardlo]

I think they would all look better without the date.

 

[Sleehrat]

Two. Good enough for Bond, good enough for me😉

 

[Madtiger]

Gen 3. 6'oclock date just feels right/balanced. 8900.

 

[JohnM67]

3 for me.

 

[502 to Right]

You missed a generation. Gen 3 should be a master co-axial movement (METAS certified) with a vertical teak pattern and no date frame on the dial. The current generation is Gen 4.

 

[502 to Right]

Gen 2's vertical teak dial is so much better than the newer gen and the bracelet is a huge improvement over the gen 1 but no adjustable clasp.

If you have the 38.5/38mm versions of the AT you can attach a Heritage 300 adjustable clasp.