The Omega’s 2024. A year that will go down in history. Call it a coincidence. A strange astral alignment that can only occur once in a lifetime. A riveting puzzle for any statistician. But we can all agree it will be an unforgettable year for sports enthusiasts. Two global events: the Paris Olympics and the America’s Cup. Never in the history of sporting competitions have these two events taken place in the same year, never mind just a few weeks apart.
Yet, among so many unknown variables, one certainty steadies the course through both: the official timekeeper will once again be Omega. The Bienne-based company has claimed the top of the podium on the strength of its tradition, expertise and approach, unparalleled qualities in the timepiece industry, as Raynald Aeschlimann, President and CEO of Omega, tells us in this exclusive interview.
What does it mean for Omega to be a part of two global events like the Paris Olympics and the America’s Cup in 2024?
We are calling this our summer of sport. These are two extraordinary sporting events taking place in a relatively short period of time. We are thrilled. This is an enormous privilege, to be the official timekeeper of both the Olympic and Paralympic Games and the America’s Cup. A unique occurrence and we are excited to be a part of it. We are ready to go. Personally, I cannot wait to get started.
Omega has always had a close relationship with the world of sports. What specific values do you share with the America’s Cup?
Sailing at that level requires passion, dedication and precision. Values that we share and admire. It also depends on the use of cutting-edge technology and innovations. Another aspect that also defines watchmaking. Omega carries on an important tradition that rests on timepieces inspired by the ocean and the exploration of the deep sea. Our connection to sailing is a bond born naturally. In 1848, Louis Brandt opened a small workshop in the Swiss town of La Chaux-de-Fonds, a shop that would later take on the name Omega. Three years later, in 1851, the Isle of Wight hosted the regatta that, with the victory of the schooner America, would change sailing forever.
Two dates that made the history of sailing and watchmaking so close together…
Yes, it almost feels as if it was fate. This is a testament to the pioneering spirit of that era, and I am proud to say that we are still carrying that same spirit with us today. I’m sure Louis Brandt would have been thrilled to see how his small atelier has evolved into one of the most important timepiece brands in the world. From a technological standpoint, the America’s Cup has come a long way since 1851. Back then it was all about schooners, today the boats literally take flight. Hulls, eras and technologies have changed, but the spirit that defines this regatta has remained the same.
Omega also boasts a long association with the New Zealand team, the longest running partnership in sailing. What motivated you to share in the Kiwis’ journey for all these years?
Above all, friendship. We’re like family. We have experienced so many extraordinary moments together. We have a great respect for them. They manage to blend a competitive spirit and a winning mentality with a very down-to-earth approach. Our partnership dates back to 1995, when the legendary Sir Peter Blake was at the helm. It has been such an exciting journey so far and we look forward to seeing what the future holds.
What are your expectations for this 37th edition?
I think this will be a highly competitive and exciting regatta. Of course, I hope for a Kiwi victory. It would be wonderful to see the Defenders of Emirates Team New Zealand hold onto the Auld Mug. But regardless of how it turns out, we can be sure of one thing: we will see some truly high-level racing. Nothing but pure adrenaline. All sailors will be going out to sea to win, so the level of determination will be spectacular.
Will the fact that it takes place on the Mediterranean mean the event will be able to reach a wider audience?
Undoubtedly there will be advantages in terms of time zones. In the last edition, the regattas were held during the day in New Zealand, which was the nighttime in Europe. That’s why I expect to see a larger audience. Timetable aside, however, this is still a global event and the most important event in sailing. As such it is a highly attractive spectacle.
Are there any plans to launch new models inspired by the event or by Emirates Team New Zealand?
Last year we presented the Seamaster Planet Ocean Deep Black ETNZ Edition to celebrate the 37th America’s Cup, our tribute to the Kiwi team. The timepiece features a 45.5 mm case that echoes the turquoise of the Emirates Team New Zealand logo and includes a central seconds hand with the America’s Cup trophy symbol as a counterweight. However, there will indeed be two other models. But for now all I can say is, “Stay tuned”.
On a personal level, what is the most exciting aspect of this competition?
The racing. There are so many variables. The weather conditions, the mentality and preparation of the crew, the strategic choices. I am very familiar with sailing, a sport that I love, but every time I am always amazed by the skill of the crews taking part. Of course, I also enjoy the social aspect of the event. Seeing the engagement and tremendous participation of the public and spectators who watch the trials, the athletes, the moments of pure joy and euphoria that only a regatta like this manages to convey.
Matteo Zaccagnino