Aqua Terra 1st generation - Quartz vs Auto

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MrPurple

·Oct 12, 2022

Hi,

I'm new to the forums after recently picking up a 2nd gen Seamaster 300. I'm really happy with it and have to the opportunity to pick up a used Aqua Terra (silver dial) here in Japan where I currently live. I have an option on the 39mm quartz and also the 39mm automatic versions, with the auto being about $1000 more than the quartz. I would just like to hear some opinions on which direction is best to go in. I think these were first generation Aqua Terra models - anything I should be aware of also in that respect?

Many Thanks

 

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GuiltunderGlass

·Oct 12, 2022

Welcome,
I think most ppl on this forum will tend towards a mechanical version of most watches, I know I do. Consider the cost of maintenance/servicing the watch regardless of which direction you go with (there are a lot of place that can do it here).

 

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Ocean

·Oct 13, 2022

Always go for the mechanic and automatic watches..in time you will always be able to fix and repair them.

 

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MrPurple

·Oct 13, 2022

Cheers for the advice guys. Much appreciated. Will post a pic once it get it!

 

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Transitus

·Oct 13, 2022

I've owned my favourite Quartz Omega Seamaster for 34 years and it has had precisely zero problems and as a thermocompensated movement it holds accuracy to 10 seconds a year. I have two other quartz Omega Seamasters. Personally I love both mechanical and quartz and I find the technology of quartz every bit as fascinating as mechanical. Not all quartz movements are created equal.

 

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Scooterino36

·Oct 14, 2022

I would inspect the dials closely, as I know the quartz version of some Aqua Terra models are not as nice as their mechanical counterpart of the same generation.

But if the dials are the same, I'd give the quartz a strong consideration. I think it ultimately comes down to how it fits into a larger collection.

 

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Turpinr

·Oct 14, 2022

After buying my missus a quartz 30mm AT I wanted the gents version at 39mm but had no luck finding one.
The quality of her AT is first class and I wouldn't baulk at buying an Omega quartz given the chance

 

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MrPurple

·Oct 15, 2022

Thanks for the additional perspectives on the quartz models guys, it certainly helps me to put both models into perspective.

 

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janice&fred

·Oct 15, 2022

I've seen both the Quartz and mechanical AT's as well as seamasters and I'd always choose quartz for my own enjoyment. I like the trouble-free wearability and convenience of picking a watch up out of the watch bin and slapping it on my wrist without having to unscrew crowns and set times. Vintage stuff we collect is a different story.