Swiss watchmaker Omega has announced that it is in the process of bringing its manufacture 8500 caliber into the Seamaster Aqua Terra watch family. The Omega 8500 caliber debuted in 2007, within the De Ville Hour Vision watch, giving enthusiasts the first fully in-house implementation around the renowned Co-Axial Escapement, first launched back in 1999.

Omega has also introduced certain new technical features, most notably a "Si 14" silicon balance spring. The advantages possessed by a silicon balance spring include immunity from magnetism, excellent resistance to shocks, and isochronal consistency.

 

The Omega Aqua Terra watches with the silicon-equipped 8500 caliber will encompass both 38.5mm and 41.5mm models. To be offered in stainless steel, 18-karat rose or yellow gold, or a combination of steel and 18-karat gold, these Omega Seamaster Aqua Terra timepieces feature attractively striated "Teak Concept" dials whose texture evokes the wooden deck of a luxurious boat.

 

The distinctly faceted hands are manufactured from 18K gold, and feature a Superluminova coating to assure low-light visibility. In addition to matching bracelets, all models are available with alligator leather straps and a deployant clasp. Water resistance is rated for 150 meters.

 

A sapphire crystal exhibition window in the screw-locked back of the Omega Seamaster Aqua Terra watches permits a full view of the Omega 8500/8501 movements. Bridges and rotors of the calibers feature a unique decorative pattern described as "Cotes de Geneve en Arabesque" - the 8501 variant found in gold Aqua Terra differs from the 8500 in that the balance bridge and rotor in this caliber are manufactured from 18-karat gold.

 

Key technical features are series-mounted spring barrels that assure 60 hours of power reserve, an unusual balance frequency of 25,200 vibrations per hour, and a hacking seconds function. The consistency and precision of each movement is verified under 15 days of exacting tests administered by the Controle Officiel Suisse des Chronometers (COSC).

 
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