Short answer
322.10.42 is the opening block of an Omega reference number, not a full model code. Omega splits references into blocks: case family, bracelet or strap, case size, movement, dial, and version. The first block is 322. The second block is 10, which Omega uses for a stainless steel bracelet. The third block is 42, which maps to a 41.5mm case in Omega's own scheme. Compare 231.10.42.21.01.001, listed by Omega at 41.5mm.
So a listing that says "aqua terra replica 322.10.42" is pointing at a copy of a 41.5mm steel Seamaster Aqua Terra 150M on a steel bracelet. The dial, movement, and production year stay unknown until you read the last four blocks.
Aqua Terra Replica Guide: Case, Dial, and Movement Checks
Numbers on the real watch
- Case diameter: 41.5mm
- Case thickness: about 13.2mm on the calibre 8500 generation
- Lug width: 20mm
- Water resistance rating: 150m
- Movement: Co-Axial calibre 8500, two barrels, 60-hour power reserve, 25,200 vph, 39 jewels
- Crystal: sapphire front and back
Older Aqua Terra references in the 322 and 231 families carry the vertical teak dial. The lines run parallel to the 12 to 6 axis. The date window sits at 3 o'clock on most versions of this case.
What to check on a copy
Case and crystal
Measure the diameter with calipers. A 41.5mm claim is easy to check. Look at the crown guards. On the genuine case they are cut into the midcase, not added as separate blocks. Check the anti-reflective coating on the sapphire. Genuine Aqua Terra crystals have coating on both faces, which shows a faint blue or purple tint at an angle. Many copies coat the outside only.
Movement
Three tiers show up in the market:
- Asian 2824 or 2836 with a decorated rotor plate. Rotor spins fast, winds loud, no functioning coaxial escapement.
- Clone 8500 style movements built from modified Asian bases. Two barrels are sometimes faked with a single barrel and a cover plate.
- Higher tier builds with a genuine-spec balance assembly and a 60-hour reserve that holds up on a timing machine.
Ask for a timegrapher photo. Amplitude, rate, and beat error are hard to fake in a photo taken on the day.
Dial and hands
The teak grooves should be cut, not printed. Run a fingernail over them under light. Indexes on the real dial are applied and polished on the sides. Arrow hands should reach the minute track. Lume color on older references is a light green, not bright white.
Bracelet
Count the links and check the taper. The clasp should close with one firm press. A rattling clasp with side play is the fastest tell on a low tier build.
Water resistance
A replica rated at 150m should not be trusted at 150m. Gaskets, caseback threads, and crown tube tolerances vary by factory. Pressure test at a jeweler before any water contact. Most owners stop at hand washing.
Price bands
Entry copies of this reference sell for roughly $120 to $200. Mid tier runs $250 to $450. Top tier runs $500 and up. These ranges come from listing prices on replica sites and are not verified by any independent test.
Legal note
These watches are not made by Omega. They carry no Omega warranty. US Customs can seize counterfeit goods at import, and the buyer carries the loss.