Omega Launches Seamaster Regatta at America's Cup Semi-Finals
Omega introduced the Seamaster Regatta at the start of the America's Cup semi-finals in sun-drenched Barcelona. The watch was an unexpected introduction, yet at the same time comes with pedigree. Omega has a long tradition of making ana-digi watches that feature both digital readouts combined with traditional hands. The various Multi-Function models in the Seamaster collection are an example of this, although this Regatta model is more reminiscent of the Speedmaster X33.
The new Seamaster Regatta is also a watch that you need to experience to get it truly. This starts with its dimensions, as a diameter of 46.75mm, which sounds enormous. In reality, the watch is surprisingly on point in terms of size. Even on my modest 7-inch wrist, it looks only slightly larger than my 42mm Seamaster Professional. Omega made good use of the space it had available, providing you with a lot of information yet in an organized way. The bezel and case are typical for the Seamaster, but as they are crafted from Grade 5 titanium, the weight of this watch is also kept in check.
The Seamaster Regatta is meant as an instrument, so with its four rubber cast buttons, one crown, and various displays on the dial it might look a bit intimidating at first. Operating it is quite intuitive and before you know it, you easily work the different functions. They include a moon phase indicator that can correctly show the phase of the moon regardless of which hemisphere you are in, a chronograph, a sailing logbook, a temperature gauge, an accelerometer, three alarms, and a regatta race function. Many functions also come with audible cues, so you can focus on sailing and still get the info you need. Omega also designed the case so that it has a resonating cavity, which enhances the volume of the sound.
Omega fitted the Seamaster Regatta with a rubber strap and its own 'Quick Change' system. This allows you to swap between several different color straps, as a titanium bracelet is currently not available. It keeps the watch nicely in place, and the rubber has a premium feel to it. As is always with Omega, does it connect perfectly to the case. The water resistance rating of 50 meters/167 feet might come as a surprise to some but note that this Seamaster is meant for sailing and not diving. The current water rating is sufficient for swimming when the boat capsizes, but anything more would take away from its intended purpose.
The Seamaster Regatta comes with plenty of Super-Luminova and a great backlight function. When activated, the hands move to the side in an instant, making the digital readout easy to read. The battery will provide this Omega with 36 months of use, which is quite extensive given the wide variety of functions. That also makes this Regatta such a fun addition to the Seamaster collection. It is highly technical and made for a specific purpose, and therefore unapologetically different from a watch like the Seamaster Diver 300M. Because it is so different, its appeal will most likely also catch a wider net of collectors than just those who actually participate in regatta's
While this particular watch is dedicated to the 37th edition of the America's Cup, as Omega is its offical timekeeper, next to also sponsoring Team New Zealand. As the sophisticated movement is developed from scratch, it is likely that it will later on also be introduced in other models not connected to this top-tier sailing event. This might also include a matching titanium bracelet. The Omega Seamaster Regatta America's Cup is priced at $7,400 and not limited.
For more info, visit Omega, here.
