It all began as a random research from various sources for my first automatic watch. At that moment, the research was mainly on a watch's appearance and design, what I liked and what I didn't. After trying out a few watches, I started to be fascinated with a watch's function, movements as well as the stories/inspiration behind the complex production of the watches.
That's when my first watch purchase started - the Omega Aqua Terra Railmaster. The dial is matt black with a clean look - thanks to the omission of the usual date function. It's charming elegance comes from the classic 12,3,6,9 numerals and arrowed minute and seconds hands. Truly a swiss watch of classic elegance. It came with the matching original brushed stainless steel bracelet and it even has an open caseback that allows me to enjoy the movement of the watch whenever I take it off.
I've had it for over a year now and it's my daily beater thanks to its robust built. I wear it for work quite often and even worn it for some formal dinners and events. For those who are curious, this is the 39mm sized Railmaster - it wears small enough for formal wear yet at the same time its slim enough for it to slip under my cuff. This is really useful for me especially when there is an evening formal function after work. The beauty of the Omega Railmaster is it's ability to pass off as an acceptable dress watch when required due to it's black dial (although at closer glance it falls more into sporty than dressy).
I've also noticed at most times, it's relatively good in terms of readability under normal light as well as in the dark as all 3 hands including the seconds hand has lume. The minute marks and even the arabic numerals are lumed as well. No problems telling the time in the dark with this watch!
Another plus point for this watch acquisition is that the maintenance costs in the future will be fairly reasonable since it's movement is a modified ETA movement with a Co-Axial Escapement. Most watchmakers around my area wouldn't have any problems servicing and maintaining the movement. Best to get a watch with a fairly serviceable movement as my daily beater.
I've acquired quite a few other watches now, but I can safely say that this watch will still be in rotation for a long time to come. Definitely a keeper.
Check out some of the photos of the watch in the gallery below.
