The BATTLE For the BEST Everyday Watch: OMEGA Aqua Terra vs. ROLEX Explorer Review

[@TeddyBaldassarre]

Which one do you guys prefer? Btw, sorry for some peaking with the audio in this one.

[@flemmingsorensen5470]

Teddy Baldassarre The Omega for sure 👍 Those numerals on the Rolex, are just too much...

[@chyroux7350]

Team Omega 👌

[@CrescentRollCarl]

Neither, but I'd take the Rolex if I had to choose between these two.

[@rifqinash]

OMEGA Aqua Terra

[@flippinzippo9670]

Ten minute videos every time! Gotta play youtubes silly game.. Also rolex imo

[@unknownriderinbound]

It's a tough choice, but for a daily all-arounder in the roughly $5000-7000 range I'd have to go with either the 2015 Ducati Monster 1200S, or the 2017 Yamaha FZ-09 on my local craigslist. 😉

[@TeddyBaldassarre]

Putting me on anything with two wheels never works out. Have been traumatized since the day I broke both of my arms at once hahaha

[@unknownriderinbound]

@@TeddyBaldassarre Got 'em both at the same time? I salute your commitment, sir! 😉

[@Makul-rt4sz]

😂😂😂

[@inkitatus1]

Triumph Thruxton has served me very well for 10 years 😉👍👍

[@johnhill4266]

After breaking my finger while leaving the track on my Yamaha FZ-07, I may be back to spending my money on watches. My riding buddy thinks otherwise and that all my problems would be cured with a Triumph Speed Triple.

[@andreaiacolina]

For me there aren't doubts: Aquaterra!!! It's so good looking and it's an Omega. ❤️

[@TimedSquare]

WE HEAR YA! 😜For me: Omega Aqua Terra 38 mm (the new version with horizontal lines and date window at 6). I think it has the most interesting design, and is the most featured-packed watch of the two. If I had to go Rolex, I'd rather go for a 36 mm OP (because the 36 mm also has those Arabic numerals every 5 minutes outside the hour indices).

[@TeddyBaldassarre]

36 mm is more suitable for a slender wrist anyways lol ;)

[@christopherliang6879]

Completely agree with you. The new Aqua Terra is a beautiful piece!

[@riseuplight]

Omega is a watch I would actually have joy in wearing

[@Bloggerky]

For a one watch collection, I would want a date adjustment; hence, the Aqua Terra. Good video!

[@publiusvelocitor4668]

For a one watch collection, between these two, I'd have to go with the AquaTerra. It's just a little more understated, and the striped dial looks nice. Also, the display back and the date function. Looks great on that strap. I wish the date display was at 6 instead of 3 though.

[@legendhadi1]

I know it's such a minute detail, but the new aqua terra with the date at 6 just looks so much nicer to me haha

[@death-to-dogma6142]

I 100% agree! The date at the 6 o'clock really makes for a more symmetrical and appealing display.

[@MistaRhoi]

The move of the date to the 6 o’clock position is what finally got me to get one. I totally understand the change of the teak deck from vertical to horizontal, given the move of the date; it just works better from a balance stand point. I also appreciate the rhythm of the decking too where there is a slightly larger gap every 3 planks. The regular vertical planking of this older Aqua Terra just read to me like the vintage DateJust; been there done that.

[@mh-do3pe]

Yup, and they eliminated the extra case buldge on the crown side. It's perfect now

[@1018Frankie]

Nice video, I prefer the Omega over the Rolex because it’s beautiful, it’s technologically superior and have a date complication that for a one watch collection it’s a must! Keep the good work my friend!

[@TeddyBaldassarre]

Can't fault the logic there. Thanks for watching as always Francisco!

[@allan2098]

It's not technically superior. Just different. There is no evidence to suggest the Daniels escapement is any better than the traditional one. Bear in mind the confidence Rolex has in their movements. 5 year warranty and 10 year service interval suggestion. Maybe the opposite is true. Maybe the Rolex is technically superior.

[@rage8kage]

@@allan2098 it's true the new hair springs has made these new watches very accurate (for a mechanical watch) and the only advantage of the Daniels escapement is longer service intervals as it operates dry

[@allan2098]

@@rage8kage I get the idea behind it, but it is more complicated and Omega do not seem to be suggesting a ten year service interval. Daniels escapement is not dry, it also need lubricant. Different is not always better.

[@danijayyy1]

One would think that a Datejust vs Aqua Terra would be a better comparison, but I actually like this duel better. Throw out complications and these two are the kings of the everyday watch for each respective brand. While I prefer a date complication, the Explorer dial really draws me in. The balance is stunning and the versatility is understated. While an Explorer may lie in the future for me, my everyday watch is a 2017 Aqua Terra 41.5 with vertical teak and I couldn’t imagine having any more admiration for it than I already do.

[@77cjam]

Without question i would go for the Omega here. The beautiful dial, amazing movement, and it's cheaper. Also it's more than likely an optical illusion but it seems to have a smoother second hand movement. As said it might not actually have, but all adds to a better asthetic in my opinion. Both great watches though

[@Mythicregard]

If the Omega has a smoother second hand, then the Explorer is a fake. Should be 3.5 hertz on the 8500 Omega movement and 4 hertz on Rolex.

[@johnteill_]

I wish the AT had the bracelet on so we could see an even match...those straps didn't do it for me

[@davidofglenbrook4487]

The Explorer I is an almost impossible-to-beat watch. It’s just no contest here.

[@veetour]

Yet the Aqua Terra beats it.

[@nihaladsul]

Aqua Terra: Hold my beer!

[@jackserious3282]

The Rolex Explorer is absolutely stunning! Possibly the best watch ever made

[@SuperAJ360]

Explorer of course! Mine is the 36mm version and use it as a beater. Although it priced around 4 grand, The subtlety and ruggedness beats the omega.

[@JC-bl9bo]

The Omega is absolutely gorgeous! Man I was I was in the salary level to buy one of these. Another great video Teddy.

[@TheDude4077]

For an everyday watch I have to have a date complication, I use my watch to check the date honestly more often than I use it to check the time, so it's aqua terra for me.

[@King_Harrold]

I'm the same. I like the look of no date watches, but I glance at the date regularly.

[@TheDude4077]

@@King_Harrold I agree. It's a nice clean look without the date, but for an everyday piece practicality is key.

[@pizzagamer5000]

Holy crap, I was just considering 30 seconds ago the aqua terra, and was thinking damm I wish teddy would make a video on it to help my decision.

[@Tomasz0216]

Cameron O'Raw so did he help? Or back two steps and now considering even more watches.

[@TeddyBaldassarre]

It was a pleasure reading your mind!

[@pizzagamer5000]

Tomasz0216 For now I’m convinced on the Aqua terra, but I bet you I’ll wake up at 3.am and think “but the Speedmaster has been to the moon”

[@rafaelmontanez2616]

Definitely Rolex, I've owned both, I sold the Omega and kept my 39mm Rolex Explorer.

[@GenWivern2]

The Omega by a country mile, on account of the Daniels escapement. A watch with real substance.

[@redpillsociety6479]

@GenWivern2 You’re an incredibly stupid person aren’t you?

[@kevinhung1575]

RED PILL SOCIETY says the incredibly dumb Rolex fanboy.

[@theaussiewhinger]

It's okay. That Red Pill Toad dude is just a bit of an idiot. 🤣

[@MrJezza31]

Aqua Terra is absolutely the best choice.

[@michaell3128]

MrJezza31 blue or black?

[@MrJezza31]

@@michaell3128 Blue.

[@nakazatotakeshi4286]

Answer: Casio f91w

[@fawkesandhound]

G Shock 5600!

[@TeddyBaldassarre]

You love your casios haha

[@kikijammer]

Casio calculator watch is much better

[@nakazatotakeshi4286]

@@kikijammer both good with great history. And also it's call Databank. Funnily enough that you comment when I actually at store buying Casio databank. Now it's on my wrist at home.

[@kikijammer]

@@nakazatotakeshi4286 Funny coincidence. Enjoy your watch man

[@TL-ph5wg]

Technically omega movements just win over the explorer, however it can't beat the looks, class or timeless design - explorer for me any day

[@lexxb6386]

Explorer all day. Checks all the boxes. Casual or dress it works. Great video...

[@EmPeral562]

These are my two favorite watches on the planet

[@lefreakify]

Does the Aqua Terra 38,5mm feel smaller than a Exp1 39mm? I tried an 39mm Exp1 and it felt too large to me. Where as I am normally good with 39mm divers.

[@lefreakify]

I thought about an older 36mm exp1, but that watch is INSANELY overpriced, especially when you held one in your hands.

[@bobswatches]

Aqua Terra FTW! However, if it were against a classic 36mm Explorer, it'll be a tough decision to make...

[@lmontoya70]

Great one as always. That said, I do think that, for a one watch collection, it is best if the dial is either white or silver. Much more versatile.

[@gray_space_alien]

I like the Omega...I just think it's a better looking watch.

[@ThePrestige813]

Nice work. I have the 36mm Explorer and if I could only have one, it’d be that one. It’s perfectly balanced and I prefer the simplicity of a no-date watch. Love Omega, but the Explorer is just too good.

[@biharijivandana6894]

Can milgauss be the best everyday watch if the duel is between omega aqua terra and milgauss? Is milgauss right contender for the battle? Or milgauss is an upper crest?

[@JohnRizk]

Recently bought the 41.5 aqua terra and it’s absolutely gorgeous. Omega all day.

[@moonstatemoonstate]

Just wonder why dayjust 41 is not in the video as has similar features as omega?

[@MrLukeeld]

Enjoyed the video Teddy but....where is the Tudor North Flag? surely it's gotta be in the mix.

[@kuokliangchin2078]

Teddy, I’m considering the 36mm Explorer. What are your thoughts ?

[@chrisafontana]

Where is the link for the strap on the Omega?

[@nefitru]

That aquaterra with the blue dial is so beautiful!

[@tizianomerello6530]

What do you think is better between explorer and oyster perpetual 39. I wanna buy my first Luxury watch and im looking for a good everyday watch! Can you help me?:)

[@imranbecks]

I have the Aqua Terra and it's perfect for everyday wear!

[@tomcat172002]

Can you do a comparison between Damasko vs Sinn watches ?

[@mt24Carson]

The 36mm Explorer I is a great all-arounder...these two are also solid options. Kudos on approaching 80k subs.... 💪👍⌚

[@TeddyBaldassarre]

I like the 36 mm as well. 39 mm is interesting wears more like a sub (not necessarily a bad thing) haha

[@mt24Carson]

@@TeddyBaldassarre If I were to get another Omega, AT is definitely on the short list. Enjoy what I have right now....

[@talia3280]

Teddy, what's your opinion on the Omega Railmaster? I wonder if that might be an alternative to the Explorer.

[@kikijammer]

Aqua Terra any day. It's one of the most versatile watches out there

[@allthestroke88]

Great review. Interestingly I think the Sinn 556 beats both of these in terms of value for money. I would though take Explorer.

[@nenad1704]

Thanks for the video.You just compared two of my favorite watches from these two brands.But if I have to choose it is definitely Omega.Keep it up.

[@justinfletcher1882]

Great but where can you find a new explorer without paying 3k more than boutique price?

[@ConkreteMan]

An Explorer has been on my wishlist since my earliest days in the hobby. One of these days I will add one to my collection. If I had bought it first I might be a one watch guy.

[@ethane421]

What do think of the limited edition sekio alpinist

[@florianhess]

Are those your hands handling them or review just based on pictures/videos?

[@walkerb1734]

Omega for me (and I own both). Lately, it seems that the Rolex badge is kind of a liability due to the perceived status by the general population. It’s nice having an Omega which flys under the radar

[@katshoulders4576]

I actually just bought the Aqua Terra Master Co-Axial as my new daily watch. I’ve gotta have a date, if it’s my everyday watch. So I definitely go AT on this one. 😊 Great vid as always Teddy👊🏼

[@TheAndyMaan]

Great comparison, I’d probably pick the Omega out of those two as I tried on the 38.5mm Aqua Terra when I was looking at getting my first ‘luxury’ watch. I did love the dial of the Omega and the case size was good and loved being able to see the movement through the back. I much preferred this sky fall model too with the date window surround, not only did the dial look more balanced but also it comes with a fully brushed bracelet which I much preferred over the later model with the polished centre links. The only thing I wasn’t sure about is that it seemed to sit a bit tall on my wrist and just looked a bit chunky. I also tried on a few different models of the Rolex Oyster Perpetual, the 34, 36 and 39mm case. I found the 36 to be the sweet spot for me and now proudly own a 36mm blue dial with the 3,6,9. It’s like having an explorer with better proportions for my wrist and a more interesting dial (in my opinion of course) the 34mm felt just a little too small and the 39 too large. I wish Omega would release the current Railmaster in a smaller case size, I love the watch but when I tried one on it just felt a little bit for my liking, that would be a winner in my eyes.

[@medicalproceduresmadeeasy8394]

Done the same exactly but still eyeing the skyfall haha

[@matthiaskrause1155]

Spec-wise, the latest Aqua Terras (with the date at 6 and horizontal lines on the dial) are even better, with a METAS certification and magnetism protection against 15,000 Gauss. Another plus for me over the Explorer is that I can choose between an "official" Omega metal bracelet, leather strap or rubber strap. The "Skyfall" AT looks georgeous, though. But in comparison to the Explorer, I find the AT indices a bit aggressive. I guess the best strategy for not-one-watch-guys is to get the Explorer as a black dial watch, and an Aqua Terra with another dial color …

[@evanhall6045]

More comparisons please!

[@furkanfb42]

I would go for the Omega, simply because I don't want to choose the rolex because it is a rolex. You can definetely see that the omega has a bit more punch to it (IMO) and I know it defies the purpose of a 1 watch collection, BUT you could get the same looks from the explorer from a simple seiko 5. So for me the Omega would be more watch for your money.

[@rickbar123]

Omega. The only watch you will ever need. I have 4 of them. Just in case.

[@jc944t]

You said it best, you get more bang for your buck with the Omega Aqua Terra. I'd even prefer the Aqua Terra over the Speedmaster ...bold statement I know. Good video, thanks!

[@u.u.u9969]

Dress watch vs Field watch. Not the same but thanks for the comparison anyways. That Rolex reminds me of a Hamilton.

[@RolexReviews]

Hey! was looking at my audience retention as well and noticed it could use some improvement. Any tips? Great video as always btw

[@bobbremner3395]

Omega knows how to present an Unclutterd dial, Rolex not really.

[@saurabhsharma4200]

What kind of freak goes through this world with only one watch? Even on vacation i need 2 or 3 watches.

[@blam07]

My 3 cents about latest iterations (aq 38mm and ex 36mm): -omega looks far more aggressive and modern while rolex is classic with nice modern touch (bolder indices), some may say this rolex is boring, -omega is less legible due to lack of 12 hour index difference, the minute hand is more eye-catchning (arrow shape) than hour hand -for me it should be vice versa, moreover arrow hand blends with wedge indices, -omega has inner and outer ar coating, but the outer layer is susceptible for scratching so this is unncessery, rolex only inner, -bracelet in rolex is more comfortable with micro-adjustment clasp, omega has no micro-adjustment, -for professional watches (or GADA) polished middle row of bracelet in omega is impractical, -omega anti magnetic 15000 gauss is enormous, but is it useful in normal use? Please enlighten me :) -rolex has more power reserve 70h vs omega 55h

[@jbbrabant]

Enjoyed this video! Thanks👍

[@YY-nd8lz]

May I ask what your wrist size is?

[@charliebrown2359]

The overly extended indices on the AT are meant to evoke the original early-1950s Seamaster (prior to '57, but not '48). Actually, the AT seems a reincarnation of the early Seamaster, again prior to the rotating bezel, and prior to the labeling of the DeVille line in (I think) the 60's. The indice look is thus more traditional than functional, and to me resembles maritime pennants. (The triangular maritime pennants stand for numbers.) I am looking for a nice watch for my next birthday (need an event to chuck down such cash) and seriously looking at the new AT in opaline white, with horizontal stripes. They say the lines/stripes are to remind one of a teak decking on a yacht. Perhaps the lines did during the Skyfall version time. While I have no memories connected with teak yacht decking, I always imagine yacht decking running horizontally. For me, in that opaline color and in the new orientation, the AT stripes are reminiscent of a sandy beach boardwalk in the bright sun. That's the feeling I want when I look down at my wrist all year long.

[@toadamine]

Just bought an omega aquaterra goodplanet gmt with a canvas strap. Seems perfect for any occasion.

[@BeneJ]

Imho, the Aqua Terra should be compared with the Datejust: There are different dial options - and it has a date complication! Also, Sir Edmund Hillary did not wear an Explorer to Mt. Everest, but an Oyster Perpetual (which is now on display in a museum). But yes, the event was used to market the then new Explorer model.

[@770yd]

It was the early version of the explorer he took. It was a modified version of the OP.

[@eddymagic1]

The 114270 36mm explorer! I also have a grey 38.5mm aqua terra but the explorer is more comfortable....

[@bladeknockingon700]

Even though like teddy I'm not a one watch guy, I'm getting close. I own the aqua terra and has been the only watch I've worn on a daily basis. Only time it goes off the wrist is working out. To me a perfect collection for 3 watches would be omega aqua terra, speedmaster, and a seamaster diver. Yes I love omega. No I am not a sponsored ambassador of omega but wish I was.

[@Mark-ro5zg]

The Tudor Black Bay 41 could also be an everyday watch. I purchased a blue dial version recently and it fits my 7" wrist perfectly. I would consider purchasing the black or green dial version of the Omega Aqua Terra.

[@robertnorth1681]

Omega...I can't quit you! Nice piece, Teddy.

[@thewatchloungechris]

I think im a six watch guy at the least, the explorer I will be a future addition. Holding off until after basil to see what's released and pulled the trigger on a jlc master control sector dial instead.

[@brianmak4025]

I have the 39mm Explorer 1 and love it! It flies under the radar most times, and goes with jeans or a suit!

[@TheRealSpicke]

I had to make this decision 4 months ago. I went for the Explorer and i love it. I don't regret it but sometimes i also think about "what if I'd taken the omega?". I might get one used later... :)

[@ronpower7790]

If Omega would skip the structures/lines on the dial and would offer a plain black dial like on the Explorer, I might have bought and Aquaterra instead of the 214270...really like the Omegas case proportions but really hate the dial as it is.

[@simplecookingwithjobay4356]

Omega AT, there are so many model to choose vs rolex explorer

[@MrKayDeeJay]

Great review Teddy!

[@GeorgeJacob96]

Omega Aquaterra is a beautiful watch 👌

[@jharris947]

I have both an Aqua Terra 38.5mm and an Explorer 114270 36mm plus a vintage Omega Seamaster 1955 and vintage Omega Constellation 1965. One of them is the best everyday watch and the perfect watch for me. It is a timeless, classic design that's built to last and is so comfortable on my wrist. Love it. Since I got it all my other watches have stayed in the watch box and it is the watch I choose to wear every day..........That watch is the Explorer.

[@robertmitchell7357]

I think the aqua terra is a better watch and a better value. The movement is better, and the autonomy you need to demonstrate to choose Omega over Rolex shows some character.

[@cknight0518]

Why didn't you use compare the most recent edition of these watches?

[@rileydickson7438]

Hey great video! You should do an update one with the new 36mm explorer vs the aqua terra with small seconds. Decently similar in price and feature the new models. Just a thought, keep it up!

[@kurtnunn6116]

Polished centerlinks on AT’s bracelet cancels it out for me. Too blingy for everyday use. Great watch though.

[@mt24Carson]

Yes...would wear on a strap instead.

[@dylvasey]

Very good point.

[@dylvasey]

@@bartekf7863 (I prefer a Jubilee hahaha).

[@SChapps]

A 36mm Explorer is my dream watch, can't justify it yet but one day..

[@Leventgursoy11]

I bought 38mm aquaterra and 36mm Smiths so no need to think which one I need to wear. 😎

[@AJMacDonaldJr]

Both very nice watches but I do prefer the Aqua Terra! 😃

[@danko2me]

I sold my Rolex Sub (afetr 8 months ) and got the Explorere 39mm,and put it on an Everest band ...and i love it !! (the sub was too heavy/bulky and showy for me ) .. Undersatated ,great lume ,great movement and timekeepin..,i looked at the Aqua terra ,but found the indices to be too shiny for me ,and the lume not as bold as i like ...so i ended up getting the 2019 Railmaster (also an Aqua Terra)which has the same great movement,and put it on a leather strap .Both are great timepieces that i alternate b/w regularly ...(.Great, informative video BTW !)

[@mmp11472]

I bought a Sub date a little over a year ago, and I think I should have bought Explorer 1 instead. No regrets, since I'll probably buy that too in the upcoming year. The sub is also keeper for life.

[@TheCharlesAtoz]

Is it a collection if it’s just one watch?

[@simon_greig]

I have both these exact watches. The Explorer gets the most wrist time by a LONG way. The AT looks amazing, looks more dressy and is more interesting to look at. However the Explorer is way more legible and easier to read and makes it far more useful as an every day watch. Also, when it comes to lume, the explorer is readable all night long whereas the AT hands have very small amounts of lume and I find it very hard to read at night. Explorer gets 10/10; AT gets 8/10 as let down by poor lume and case thickness (in comparison).

[@prestonwilliams710]

Another fair and thorough video. sir.

[@rodrigogutierrezreyes4702]

Would like to see a comparison of the Navitimer with another aviation watch, or an affordable variant to the Navitimer. Great job with the video!

[@mrmikmak86]

I have two Aqua Terra, one with the 8500 movement the other 8900 movement, 41.5mm and 41mm respectively. Fantastic watches.

[@benspeaker2853]

I'd like to see a side by side video of the Omega Aqua Terra GMT Chronograph and comparable watches.

[@carlosa.valentin.ministries]

Both gorgeous watches.

[@oneisnone7350]

I always roll my eyes when Sir Edmond Hillary is mentioned with the Explorer. The Explorer was never worn by this explorer ;-). It’s simply marketing hype. That said, I own an Explorer and love it. I find I reach for it more than my Grand Seiko Snowflake or Tudor Black Bay among others. The Snowflake blows away the AquaTerra, and blows away the Explorer. However, the iconic and extremely balanced looks, and the fact that it can be dressy and casual at the same time always does it for me.

[@Peter-tc3ep]

My everyday is the Omega Seamaster 300M in black with gold, used to be my Anniversary Submariner but I got tired of getting it demagnetized with traveling. Although I’m picking up an aquanaut, trading out my sub for it, as soon as my AD gets one, in green with white gold for me.

[@maxfang531]

Omega AT's got my vote. Absolutely love it!

[@HremHudson]

Love the side by side comparison! Maybe do some more affordable divers? Seiko SKX vs Orient Ray is??

[@fatherscottalbergate]

Given that you can’t find an Explorer then it’s the Aqua Terra. But I decided on the OP 36mm with the 3-6-9 Explorer dial. A classic and a real stunner with the blue dial.