Chapter One Round by Maîtres du Temps

Maîtres du Temps presents Chapter One Round, featuring a bold, architecturally-inspired round case housing Chapter One’s groundbreaking combination of complications. The interplay of the multi-level concentric circles of the case and dial entices the viewer’s eye inward to the majestic amphitheater of the indication-rich dial. There, attention might first alight either on the kinetic ballet of the sublimely finished tourbillon or on the eye-catching red of the counterpoised chronograph second hand, both in contrast to the backdrop of the dial’s dark brushed-satin finish. However, it isn’t long before the clear legibility of layout impresses with its elegant and functional design.

The circles within circles are perfectly balanced by the juxtaposition of the rectangular forms of the two roller indications showing the day and moon phase, which curve down from the top of the muscular case like buttresses and seamlessly integrate the lugs for the strap. Large polished chamfers running the full length on each side of the case catch and dynamically reflect the light and provide a foil to the brushed finish of the vertical elements.

Developed by a collaboration of world-renowned master watchmakers, Christophe Claret and Peter Speake-Marin, Chapter One Round features a world-first combination of complications: tourbillon, mono-pusher chronograph, retrograde date, retrograde GMT, and two rolling bars indicating the day of the week and phase of the moon.

Chapter One Round by Maîtres du Temps

A tour of the highly legible dial reveals central coaxial hours, minutes, and chronograph 60-second counter; tourbillon and day of the week roller at 6 o’clock; retrograde GMT at 9 o’clock; 60-minute chronograph counter and precision moon phase roller at 12 o’clock; and retrograde date at 3 o’clock. Stylish ergonomic correctors with a slide-to-unlock feature make adjusting the calendar indications a tactical pleasure.

“After working on Chapter One for nearly two years, I was struck by the strength in the design of this round version: it is far stronger in character and presence than I dared hope for,” says Peter Speake-Marin.

Actualizing the sophisticated case of Chapter One Round — comprising 96 individual components — requires the precision and care of an artist. The hand-polished and brushed-satin finishes of the three main case elements — central body and two lugs — demand meticulous exactitude to ensure that all of the finishes line up precisely so that the lines flow smoothly. The development of the case alone required a full year of research and development.

“Maîtres du Temps continues to diversify the Chapter One collection by offering timepieces with sophisticated design and technical mastery. This latest round-case version offers a sculptured structural feel with distinguished technical features,” says Steven Holtzman, founder of Maîtres du Temps.

Master watchmaker Christophe Claret

The ease of both reading and adjusting Chapter One’s indications disguises the fact that Chapter One is an incredibly complex timepiece crafted from 678 finely finished and beautifully decorated components. Chapter One Round stands as an enduring testament to the skill, patience, and dexterity of its world-class creators.

The bold architectural form, innovative indications, and ergonomic functions of Chapter One belie the incredible complexity of its unique movement and the structural sophistication of its case.

Chapter One’s master watchmakers have come together to craft a horological work of art, both inside and out. Alternating finishes play with light around the case, imparting a sense of strength and majesty without leaving a trace of the complexity involved. The ease of both reading and adjusting Chapter One’s many indications disguises the fact that this is a world-first combination of complications crafted from 558 components.

No wristwatch before Chapter One has ever featured a tourbillon movement incorporating a mono-pusher column wheel chronograph, retrograde date, retrograde GMT, and phase of the moon and day of the week indications displayed on their own distinctive rolling bars. Efficiently transmitting power 90° to the two rollers and ensuring that they work simultaneously with the time, date, GMT, and chronograph was an immense technical challenge. That the challenge was met and surpassed is further testament to Chapter One’s enormously talented team.

A tour of the dial reveals central coaxial hours, minutes, and chronograph 60-second counter; tourbillon and day of the week roller at 6 o’clock; retrograde GMT at 9 o’clock; 60-minute chronograph counter and precision moon phase roller at 12 o’clock; and retrograde date at 3 o’clock.

Master watchmaker Peter Speake-Marin

Meticulous attention to every minute detail throughout the design and execution of all facets of Chapter One’s development has resulted in a timepiece of exceptional presence and refinement. The harmoniously integrated rolling bars, for example, had to be both large enough to be easily read and small enough to be ultralight and homogeneous with the case. Scintillating, laser-pierced moon and stars on the outer roller of the moon phase indication add to its stellar elegance.

Myriad details make Chapter One a timepiece that richly rewards a closer look, from the small window between the day roller and the tourbillon, which allows a unique view of the superbly finished gyrating tourbillon cage, to the contrast of the hands against the brushed-satin finish of the multi-strata dial. Even the locking corrector pushers are formed from curves running concentrically to perfectly follow the graceful flow of the circular case.

The story of Chapter One Round is one of glorious complexity in celebration of the men behind it.

Technical Specifications – C1R.55.2E.22-2

Chapter One Round Movement Dial Side

Displays
Central hands indicating hours and minutes
Central chronograph counterpoised second hand
60-minute counter at 12 o’clock
Retrograde date at 3 o’clock
Retrograde GMT at 9 o’clock
One-minute tourbillon at 6 o’clock
Day of the week indication on roller at 6 o’clock
Patented precise moon phase indication on roller at 12 o’clock

Functions
Two-position winding crown: pushed in to wind the watch; pulled out to set the time
Chronograph: start/stop/return-to-zero function activated by single pusher in the crown

Correctors
Date corrector at 2 o’clock
Day of the week corrector at 4 o’clock
Moon phase corrector at 8 o’clock
GMT corrector at 10 o’clock

Chapter One Round Movement Back Side

Case
18K 5N red gold
Number of components: 96
Dimensions: 62 mm x 59 mm x 22 mm
Sapphire crystals with double anti-reflective coating
Display back: sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating
High polish and satin finishes
Correctors with integrated locking system

Dial & Hands
Number of components: 24
Multi-faceted and beveled with brushed and velvet surface finishes
Diamond-cut facet applied markers with Super-LumiNova
Red counterpoised chronograph hand
Diamond-cut facet hands for chronograph counters, hour, minute, date, and GMT

Rollers
Day roller: matte anodized Anticorodal finished aluminum
Moon phase roller: anodized Anticorodal finished aluminum inside a matte anodized cover with laser-pierced moon and stars
Window between day roller and tourbillon

Strap
Hand-sewn alligator strap with 18K 5N red-gold deployant buckle

Source: www.maitresdutemps.com

BLANCPAIN L-EVOLUTION, “Super Trofeo” Flyback Chronograph

The second season of the “Lamborghini Blancpain Super Trofeo” championship is now under way. The very first races have just ended on the Hockenheim circuit in Heidelberg, Germany. The new Blancpain-branded Gallardo LP560-4 cars vied with each other throughout the weekend within the context of the DTM (Deutsche Tourenwagen Masters) championship. Blancpain once again salutes the remarkable performance of its President and CEO Marc A. Hayek, racing alongside famous driver Peter Kox of the Netherlands.

This second season confirms the important place Blancpain occupies in the world of motor-racing. While now serving as official timekeeper for the new FIA GT1 World Championship, the Manufacture from Le Brassus also remains the title sponsor of the “Lamborghini Blancpain Super Trofeo”.

Blancpain has created an exceptional new sports watch in honour of this prestigious championship: the L-evolution Super Trofeo 2010* features a titanium case with all carbon-fibre dial and lugs. A chronograph model equipped with a flyback function, this timepiece is also distinguished by its appliques symbolising the Lamborghini Gallardo tail-lights and by its oscillating weight shaped like a double chequered flag, while, the alcantara strap is subtly reminiscent of car upholstery.

Blancpain results (Team Reiter Engineering – no 24):

Marc A. Hayek / Peter Kox (2nd in the 1st race ; 1st / 2nd ; 1st / 3rd)

The next five rounds in the Super Trofeo series will take place in:

• Brno (Czech Republic), May 22-23
• Paul Ricard Le Castellet (France), July 3-4
• Spa-Francorchamps (Belgium), July 30-31
• Budapest (Hungary), August 21-22
• Vallelunga (Italy), September 25-26

2010 Blancpain Fifty Fathoms Collection: moon phase, complete calendar, column-wheel controlled flyback chronograph

A New Complete Calendar Moon Phase Flyback Chronograph

Blancpain’s Fifty Fathoms Collection is home to the most rugged sports watches in all of Blancpain’s lines. For 2010 Blancpain expands the Fifty Fathoms domain of sport to embrace the complications of a moon phase and a complete calendar married with the traditional sport companion of a column-wheel controlled flyback chronograph.

This newest member of the Fifty Fathoms family, with its complicated 448-part movement, has been fitted with a host of Blancpain movement innovations. The moon phase complete calendar mechanism is drawn from the caliber F185 movement, offering the unique capability of risk-free setting of any indication regardless of the time of day or night. Other complete calendar moon phase mechanisms offered in the industry forbid setting of indications at certain times because of risk of damage to the delicate components of the calendar. Blancpain solved this problem with its unique design that frees the owner from worrying about whether it is safe to set the calendar indications. Setting itself is further facilitated by the incorporation of Blancpain’s patented under lug correctors that eliminate the need for adjusters on the sides of the case and which allow finger-tip setting in place of an adjusting tool.

The chronograph base is Blancpain’s classic vertical clutch column-wheel controlled flyback movement.

The stainless steel case is 45 mm in diameter and fitted with a blue colored sapphire unidirectional bezel and blue dial.

2010 Blancpain Fifty Fathoms Collection: moon phase, complete calendar, column-wheel controlled flyback chronograph

Technical Specifications

Ref: 5066F-1140-52B

FIFTY FATHOMS, Complete Calendar Flyback Chronograph, moon phases, under-lug correctors, blue dial, one-way rotating bezel, self-winding

Caliber
66BF8

Thickness
7,50 mm

Diameter
32,00 mm

Power-reserve in hours
40

Jewels
37

Components
448

Case
Steel

Thickness
17,40 mm

Diameter
45,00 mm

Water-resistance
30 bar (The water-resistance value expressed in metres corresponds to overpressure expressed in bars. Each bar corresponds to a 10-metre water column.)

Sapphire crystal back
Yes

Interhorn space
23,00 mm

IndyCar Series Champion & Indy 500 Winner Dario Franchitti Announced as TW Steel Brand Ambassador

Amsterdam, The Netherlands (16 April, 2010) – TW Steel, the Dutch brand specializing in oversized watches, announced Friday that reigning IZOD IndyCar Series Champion, Dario Franchitti, is to become a Global Brand Ambassador.

Franchitti, IndyCar Series Champion in 2007 and 2009, was announced as TW Steel’s latest ambassador as he began preparations to defend his ‘Toyota Grand Prix of Long Beach’ race title with this year’s event once again taking place on the streets of Long Beach, California, Friday 16th – Sunday 18th April.

TW Steel is equally delighted to announce that in addition to the 36-year-old Scottish racer becoming an ambassador for the brand, he will also be involved in the design and subsequent promotion of the ‘TW Steel Dario Franchitti’ edition – the first watch to sport the 2007 Indy 500 Winner’s name and official logo.

“I think it’s tremendously exciting to have someone with Dario’s record of success associated with TW Steel,” stated Stewart Bain, TW Steel’s Chief Commercial Officer. “The Franchitti name has come to represent excellence in the world of motorsport with Dario renowned amongst his peers, fans and the media for being a sportsman, and gentleman, of significant stature.

“He is also, and critically, extremely knowledgeable about watches so we were delighted with Dario’s reaction to ‘The Watch in Steel’ and we look forward to working with him further on the Franchitti edition. North America is undoubtedly one of the most important territories for the continued growth of TW Steel. We’re naturally relishing the opportunity to partner our brand voice with Dario’s substantial popularity to reach out and continue to engage our consumers.”

Franchitti, who currently drives for Target Chip Ganassi Racing in the IZOD IndyCar Series, is equally excited by the new partnership.

TW Steel Dario Franchitti edition Photo: Michael Voorhees

“Anyone who knows me will tell you that if I had a passion away from racing, other than my love of cars, it would be for watches,” stated the Scot.

“I’ve always appreciated a fine timepiece and when I was first introduced to TW Steel I was certainly impressed with their commitment to designing something unique but very appealing. As I compete all over the world I’m delighted to be working with them as a brand ambassador here in North America and internationally as well.”

He continued; “The opportunity to work with TW Steel to come up with a ‘Dario Franchitti’ edition was particularly exciting to me. If something’s going to bear your name you have to have complete faith that it’s a true representation of what you stand for. In TW Steel I’ve found the perfect partner. We’re both driven by a pursuit of excellence and a true passion for watch design. I have a new found appreciation for what goes into producing these watches and I’m excited to be unveiling my own edition later next month!”

Details of the ‘TW Steel Dario Franchitti’ execution will be announced next month along with an exclusive ‘Launch Party’ in Indianapolis on Saturday 22nd May.

TW Steel is available in America through leading retail partners including London Jewelers in New York, Reis Nichols in Indianapolis, Hyde Park Jewelers in Denver and Las Vegas, Swiss Fine Timing in Chicago and David Orgell on Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills.

TW Steel, celebrating its fifth anniversary in 2010, continues to develop and lead the oversized watch market. A family-owned company, headed by 27-year-old Chief Executive Officer and co-owner, Jordy Cobelens, ‘The Watch in Steel’, has emerged as an innovative, bold lifestyle brand – now available in over 50 countries worldwide.

Source: www.twsteel.com

Admiral's Cup Chronograph 48 Bol d'Or Mirabaud - Photo: Marc Ninghetto

CORUM links its name to the world’s most important regatta on an inland lake by becoming Presenting Sponsor of the Bol d’Or Mirabaud, which will commence on June 12. Reaffirming its commitment to sailing, CORUM is continuing its history and expanding its presence in the sailing sponsorship arena.

The Bol d’Or Mirabaud, currently in its 72nd year, is unlike any other regatta in the world. The legendary race is a place where sailing stars are mixed with non-professional sailors, and the event is the pride of the Lake Geneva region and delights sailing enthusiasts.

Organized for the first time in 1939, this large nautical festival has become one of the greatest classics of the international regatta calendar. Each year, nearly six hundred sailboats and champions from all over Europe meet at the starting line, in the company of more than 3,000 participants from all backgrounds, having their passion for sailing in common.

CORUM is very pleased to be associated with this major event. This partnership is completely consistent with existing partnerships and is in line with the brand’s primary goal which is to create long-term value.

The Bol d’Or has indeed become one of the favorite venues of the Okalys-Corum team who won the regatta twice in the past five years (in 2005 and 2007). It is also to be noted that at the time of these two victories, the skipper alongside Nicolas Grange was Loïck Peyron, CORUM’s new ambassador. With his breathtaking list of accomplishments, the Frenchman, who is regarded as one of the greatest sailors, keeps a unique memory of his past participation in this regatta: « To win the lake’s most popular regatta is quite an achievement. Before I used to follow it from a distance, but in 2005 when we won it for the first time, Nicolas Grange presented us with a small replica of the highly coveted trophy. It still takes pride of place on my desk.»

This new partnership is strengthening the brand’s ties not only to amazing sailors such as Ben Ainslie and Loïck Peyron but also to prestigious sailing events such as the Grand Prix Corum, which this year will be the final race in the Challenge Julius Baer, taking place on September 17, 18 and 19.

In order to celebrate this partnership, CORUM will launch a limited edition “Admiral’s Cup Chronograph 48 Bol d’Or Mirabaud 2010 “ of 35 pieces. The special edition of the brand’s iconic model famous for its dodecagonal bezel and a dial decorated with nautical pennants, will play with the colors of the regatta which are Blue and Gold. The model will symbolize the partnership by becoming the official watch of the Bol d’Or Mirabaud and one of these limited edition timepieces will be presented to the winning team of the Bol d’Or and the Bol de Vermeil.

Michel Glaus, Antonio Calce and Antonio Palma Photo: Marc Ninghetto

CORUM CEO Antonio Calce said:
« The rebirth of the CORUM brand, which has expressed itself by returning to its roots, has naturally brought us to support the sailing world to which we have always had a strong connection. I am proud to associate CORUM with the historical regatta of the Bol d’Or. Today we build our future in continuity as in 1994, the Corum boat that participated in the 56th edition of the Bol d’Or won the monohull class competition and still holds the record in this category (Bol d’Or Vermeil). We therefore are looking forward to participating in this great adventure of which values cherished by CORUM, such as authenticity and passion, are also the key words of the event. »

Managing Partner and Member of the Executive Committee of Mirabaud, Antonio Palma, added:
« Every year we look forward to the unique event that is the Bol d’Or Mirabaud. At the 72nd regatta, we are pleased to welcome CORUM by our side as presenting sponsor. We anticipate that the future of this collaboration will bring great rewards to all parties during one of the most important sporting events in Geneva. »

Bol d’Or Mirabaud Organization Committee President, Michel Glaus, said:
« As the world’s most important regatta on an inland lake, the Bol d’Or has always been able to count on very prestigious partners. The 2010 regatta will not be an exception as the Bol d’Or Mirabaud is pleased to welcome CORUM as the new “presenting sponsor”, alongside our title sponsor, Mirabaud private bank. We look forward to our future collaboration with this renowned watchmaking company, long known for its strong identification with the world of international sailing.»

While passion, determination and innovation are associated with CORUM’s image today, it is mainly shared values that are at the heart of this partnership. The magnificent adventure will take place June 11-13, 2010.

CORUM

Over the past few years, CORUM has undergone a complete transformation that has enabled it to achieve a perfect match between the products and the demands for quality and creativity that are the very foundations of its credibility. Its firmly upscale move is a logical result of the brand’s efforts to recapture its historical standing while significantly reinforcing its horological substance. CORUM’s substantial investments have led to the integration of watchmaking skills, the development of production tools, the enhancement of human resources and the promotion of staff training. The result is a brand once again entirely in tune with its genetic heritage.

Positioned as an exclusive brand, CORUM offers high-quality watch collections featuring innovative and distinctive design, and equipped with sophisticated mechanical movements. Its 150 current models, spread between four key pillars – Admiral’s Cup, Romvlvs, Corum Bridges and Artisans – enjoy a legitimacy rooted in the brand history. The full set of collections comprises models at prices ranging from 5,000 to 1 million Swiss francs and giving pride of place to precious metals and horological complications.

In 1960, the first interpretation of the Admiral’s Cup model paved the way for CORUM’s success. This model remains thanks to its history, which is inextricably bound up with major sailing competitions and prestigious sailors, as well as for its inimitable esthetic based on a twelve-sided case and a dial set off by twelve nautical pennants. These are its distinctive and unmistakable identifying characteristics.

THE BOL D’OR MIRABAUD

The racecourse is as simple as it can get: Genève – Le Bouveret – Genève. There is only one mark on the course, halfway through the race (at Le Bouveret).

The real time winner of the Genève-Le Bouveret-Genève race wins the Bol d’Or Challenge, which is presented each year, however if it is won three times in the previous five years by the same owner, it can be kept by the winner indefinitely. Only three boats have achieved this in over 70 years of the regatta: the Marie-José II owned by Horace Julliard (1961, 1962 and 1963), the Altaïr IX owned by Philippe Stern (1980, 1982 and 1984) and Ernesto Bertarelli’s Alinghi (1997, 2000 and 2001).

The Bol de Vermeil Trophy rewards exclusively the first monohull to cross the finishing line. As for the Bol d’Or Challenge, it has to be won three times in five years to be awarded indefinitely.

ROMAIN JEROME Eyjafjallajökull-DNA

A contemporary legend

With this unique Eyjafjallajökull-DNA model, RJ illustrates the legends of our time and the mythologies that will forge the memory of the 21st century. A timepiece with its finger on the pulse of the latest events, designed with ash from the erupting Eyjafjallajökull which is establishing itself as one of the most intimate symbols of our global contemporary emotions.

As if revealed beneath the dial through a bold stylistic effect and ready to burst forth at any moment, the lava ejected from the core of the planet illustrates an inner strength capable of setting fire to time – in this case held captive by a steel bezel and volcanic ash. Conveying memories of fire and lava, swept over by powerful images of dust and winds, and testifying to primeval energies as well as human vulnerability, the rough, brutal, fissured dial is crafted from ash ejected by the Eyjafjallajökull volcano.

Above and beyond the words and pictures heard and seen over and over again on our TV and computer screens, the visual impact of this form of telluric inevitability serves as a fresh reminder of the inherent vulnerability of our world view. Behind the ash cloud lies the vanity of our philosophies of time.

This one-of-a-kind model is accompanied by a certificate of authenticity confirming that the volcanic rock and the ash do indeed come from the Eyjafjalljökull volcano.

Source: www.romainjerome.ch

Edox Chronorally

What rally driver has never dreamed of finally having a watch that would enable them to time their performance?

Edox has now made this dream come true with a collection wholly dedicated to the World Rally Championship (WRC). Developed exclusively for Edox, the new 36 calibre is a true revolution in the worlds of watchmaking and cars.

In addition to the standard displays, the new WRC Chronorally offers a plethora of new possibilities: stage timing with an accumulated stage time, recount/replay mode, countdown mode and chronograph.

All these functions are accessible by means of the pushpieces and the crown, which, with its outsize design, permits easy access for the gloved hands of a rally driver.

An instrument that is truly dedicated to the world’s best rally drivers and their co-drivers, the WRC Chronograph also boasts original car-theme details, with, for example, its raised caseback representing a wheel rim and its rubber wristband reproducing the contours of car tyres.

Edox has been taken on as the official timing partner for the WRC World Rally Championship for the next three years.

Edox Chronorally Backcase

Technical specifications

Functions:
hours, minutes, seconds, chronograph, countdown, stage timing, accumulated stage timing, replay.

Caliber:
Edox 36, Soprod base.

Number of jewels:
12.

Movement size:
36 mm 16″.

Watchcase depth:
15.2 mm.

Watchcase diameter:
48 mm.

Finish:
polished and buffed.

Pushers:
red anodised aluminium pushpiece.

Water resistance:
100 metres / 10 ATM / 300 feet.

Dial:
black carbon.

Crystal:
treated anti-reflective, scratch-resistant sapphire crystal.

Strap:
genuine black rubber, structured.

Clasp:
stainless steel, engraved with the Edox logo.

Frédérique Constant Limited Edition FC-303CH4P5 piano

Short Biography

Frédéric-François Chopin (March 1, 1810 – October 17, 1849) is widely seen as one of the greatest of Polish composers renowned for his piano works. A great Romantic composer, who nevertheless wrote absolute music with formal titles such as Mazurkas, Impromptus, Walzes, Nocturnes. He was another one of the extremely rare child prodigies. The musical talent of young Chopin became apparent early on. At the age of 7, he was already the author of two polonaises (in G minor and B-flat major), the first being published in the engraving workshop of Father Cybulski. The prodigy was featured in the Warsaw newspapers, and ‘little Chopin’ became the attraction at receptions given in the aristocratic salons of the capital. He also began giving public charity concerts. His first professional piano lessons lasted from 1816 to 1822, when the teacher was no longer able to give any more help to the pupil whose skills surpassed his own.

Chopin’s music for the piano combined a unique rhythmic sense (particularly his use of rubato, chromatic inflections, and the style of Johann Sebastian Bach), as well as a piano technique, which was of his own creation. This mixture produced a particularly fragile sound in the melody and the harmony, which are nonetheless underpinned by solid and interesting harmonic techniques. He took the new salon genre of the nocturne, invented by Irish composer John Field, to a deeper level of sophistication, and endowed popular dance forms, such as the Polish mazurka and the Viennese waltz with a greater range of melody and expression.

Official Chopin 2010 logo

Chopin in 2010

In Poland, the year of 2010 is announced as the “Year of Fryderyk Chopin” as it is Chopin’s 200th birthday anniversary. Hundreds of events are planned, not only in Poland, however all over the world – concerts, exhibitions, meetings, festivals, congresses and others. Activities are actively coordinated and controlled The Fryderyk Chopin Institute, which was established in 2001 on the basis of an act of the Polish Parliament, to organise concerts, conferences, course, as well as to cover research and popularisation of knowledge about Chopin’s life and work, and cooperation with institutions and organizations dealing in the protection of the Chopin heritage. The Fryderyk Chopin Institute has officially licensed the Frédérique Constant Limited Edition F. Chopin.

Technical Specifications

Reference:
FC-303CH4P5

Limited edition of 1810 pieces, delivered in a miniature Frédéric Chopin Piano

Movement:
Caliber FC-303
Automatic winding mechanism with Date

Case:
Yellow gold plated case
Diameter 40mm
Water resistant to 6 ATM
Convex sapphire crystal, See-through case back

Dial:
Silvered dial with central “Piano guilloché” decoration
Date indicator at 6 o’clock

Strap:
Brown Croco Calf strap

The new VACHERON CONSTANTIN Boutique in Riyadh

April 12th, 2010 – Three weeks after the opening of the first Vacheron Constantin boutique in India located in New Delhi, the world’s oldest Haute Horlogerie manufacture with 255 years of uninterrupted history unveils a new exclusive boutique in Riyadh. This boutique is the second in the Middle East after Dubai, and the very first in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia – located in the heart of Olaya Street, the bustling trade hub of Riyadh.

In line with the design aesthetic values of the historical Vacheron Constantin Maison in Geneva, the new boutique offers an exclusive and warm setting with a comforting atmosphere, dedicated to technical and precious Haute Horlogerie. It is adorned to highlight the spectacular architecture and stylish interiors with precious wood, leather and fine furnishings creating an atmosphere of confidence and serenity.

For collectors and watch aficionados, the boutique houses a complete timepieces collection as well as a wide range of services including changing a strap or a bracelet, servicing a watch, providing watchmaking advices and information about Vacheron Constantin.

This boutique has been launched in partnership with Al Fardan Jewellery and enjoys the exclusivity of Vacheron Constantin in Riyadh. Mr. Jamil Matar, CEO of Al Fardan Jewellery in KSA said: “At Al Fardan Jewellery, we strive to build enduring relationships and long-term partnerships with the best jewellery and watch brands in the world, thereby offering the widest choice for our consumers in KSA.

This has enabled us to establish a fruitful partnership with Vacheron Constantin who has a history of success and over 250 years of distinctive watch making. We have unveiled the new exclusive boutique in Riyadh, and we hope that this boutique is the beginning of a long-term relationship with Vacheron Constantin”.

Mr. Yassin Tag, Regional Director for Vacheron Constantin added “We are glad to continue long-term fruitful and respectful relationships with our friends the Al Fardan family for years in Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Doha. The opening of this boutique in Riyadh comes as an important step not only for the long history of our brand in this geographic part of the world, but also for the recognition of the Saudi watch clients as the most demanding and faithful watchmaking connoisseurs”.

OMEGA presented Woolstencroft with a Seamaster Planet Ocean wristwatch

Skier won a record five consecutive gold medals

Vancouver, BC, April 6, 2010 – Canadian skier Lauren Woolstencroft had been known as the Golden Girl of Paralympics since 2002 when she claimed two gold medals and a bronze at the Games in Salt Lake City. At the Vancouver 2010 Paralympic Games her status evolved from impressive to legendary as she topped the podium in each of the five events she entered.

Woolstencroft is the only winter Paralympian in history to win five gold medals at a single Paralympic Games.

OMEGA, the Official Timekeeper of the Paralympic Winter Games, presented Woolstencroft with a Seamaster Planet Ocean wristwatch in celebration of her remarkable accomplishment. The presentation was made at the OMEGA Olympic Games Boutique on the ground floor of the Fairmont Hotel Vancouver.

After receiving her watch, the ski star posed for photographs and signed the Boutique’s guest book. Woolstencroft said “What a great honour to be recognized and be given the gift of time for my accomplishments at the Paralympic Winter Games. To receive an OMEGA watch from the official timekeeper of the 2010 Paralympic Winter Games is very exciting.”

The Vancouver 2010 Paralympic Games have been widely heralded for their representation of the notion of true sport. At the Closing Ceremony on the 21st of March, International Paralympic Committee President Sir Philip Craven praised the Games and the athletes, saying, “Together, we have all captured the Paralympic Spirit from these Games and can carry it around the world.”

OMEGA and the Vancouver 2010 Paralympic Winter Games

OMEGA’s famous logo has been a familiar site in Vancouver and Whistler and on television screens around the world throughout the Olympic and Paralympic Games. The brand’s association with the Olympic Games dates back to 1932 in Los Angeles and OMEGA was also proud to have the opportunity to apply its timekeeping expertise to the Paralympic Games. The 2010 Vancouver Olympic Games were the 24th at which OMEGA has been Official Timekeeper. The Swiss watchmaker recently extended its agreement to continue to serve in its timekeeping role at the Olympic and Paralympic Games through 2020.