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

TW STEEL TW671 Renault Formula One Team

Amsterdam, The Netherlands (March 17, 2010) – TW Steel celebrated the start of BASELWORLD 2010 by unveiling its new ‘Renault F1 Team’ collection – the first executions produced as the Dutch watch brand beings its associations as ‘Official Timing Partner’ to the Renault F1 Team in 2010.

TW Steel’s newest offerings are based on two separate design platforms. The four-model ‘Renault F1 Team Pilot’ collection celebrates Renault’s early association with the aviation industry and specifically the origins of the first oversized watches. The ‘Renault F1 Team CEO Tech’ collection, also with four-models, offers a more luxurious edge to TW Steel’s partnership embracing the team’s world championship winning pedigree.

“This was an exciting project for me and I’m please that we have a collection that reflects both the best of TW Steel and the Renault F1 Team,” stated Ton Cobelens, TW Steel’s Chief Design Officer.

“I was fascinated with Renault’s background in aviation and developed the Pilot models from this research. Pilot watches were known for being oversized with bold, easy to read faces to ensure greater visibility at all times. We’ve developed this concept with the use of big numbers clearly visible in both the day and night. We’re offering the consumer a strong, distinctive looking watch with its roots planted firmly in Renault’s illustrious history.”

On the ‘Renault F1 Team CEO Tech’ executions Cobelens remarked, “In addition to the Pilot models we wanted to offer something that reflected more of the prestige associated with both Formula One and obviously the Renault F1 Team’s on0track successes. The Renault F1 Team CEO Tech watches purposefully mirror the values that have made TW Steel’s current CEO collection a success, by offering a more elaborate watch very much in keeping with the lifestyle associated with the sport.”

TW STEEL TW681 Renault Formula One Team

The TW670 (45mm) and TW671 (48 mm) Pilot models feature a three-hand, big caliber movement on a bold black dial sporting the Renault F1 Team logo. The TW672 (45mm) and TW673 (48mm), also in the Pilot collection, feature a chronograph movement with all executions using a hardened mineral crystal and black leather straps – complete with TW Steel’s two steel dot signature.

The TW680 (45mm) and TW681 (48mm) in the CEO Tech collection feature a chronograph movement able to measure and display time to 1/20th of a second with real sapphire crystal – a rarity for a watch with these case dimensions. The steel case is complimented by the use of a soft black silicon rubber strap.

The TW682 (44mm) and TW683 (48mm) editions, both with a chronograph movement, feature AA-grade black PVD coating on the case. The crown and screws on the bezel utilize AA-grade gold plating for further distinction. All Tech watches are waterproof to 10 ATM.

TW Steel, the name meaning ‘The Watch in Steel’, can be found at BASELWORLD 2010 in Hall 1.1, ‘Hall of Desires’ – Stand No. A71, March 17th – 25th, 2010.

TW Steel TW 127 (48 mm)

Amsterdam, The Netherlands (March 18, 2010) – TW Steel, the Dutch watch brand ‘Big in Oversized Watches,’ launches its latest TECH executions at BASELWORLD 2010 today. On display for the first time, the collection consists of seven new models, available in either 45 mm or 48 mm editions, with the styling founded on the popularity of the now sold-out special edition TW Steel A1GP TECH watches.

Responding to consumer demand to build on that design platform, the seven new TECH models comprise a stylish blend of rugged looks with a high-end finish – all watches, of course, featuring top grade stainless steel and a unique construction that connects the bezel to the case back by using pillars and engine screws.

Notable stand-outs include the TW128 (45 mm) and TW129 (48 mm), which take their inspiration from TW Steel’s successful Canteen Style ‘Cool Black’ editions, featuring a greyer dial and in keeping with the ‘dark’ trend prevalent in current consumer taste. In addition, the TW126 (45 mm) and TW127 (48 mm) both feature a sleek black dial offset against a stainless steel case and steel bracelet and folding clasp.

TW Steel TW 129 (48 mm)

The 2010 TECH models all sport a chronograph function with an OS25 movement, accurate to 1/20th of a second. All watches feature soft rubber straps with an anti-dust protection layer, with the exception of the aforementioned TW126 and TW127 with the steel bracelet. All the crystals feature a sapphire layer.

The TW130 / TW131 / TW132 / TW133 editions utilize AA-grade rose gold plating on the cases while the TW128 and TW129 feature AA-grade PVD black coating for a distinguished finish. Finally all new TECH watches are waterproof to a depth of 100 meters.

TW Steel, the name meaning ‘The Watch in Steel’, can be found at BASELWORLD2010 in Hall 1.1, ‘Hall of Desires’ – Stand No. A71.

TW Steel TW 131 with AA-grade rose gold plating

Lucas di Grassi the new TW Steel brand ambassador

Amsterdam, The Netherlands (March 4, 2010) – TW Steel, the international Dutch watch brand renowned for exceptional oversized watches, is delighted to announce a partnership with Brazilian Formula One driver, Lucas di Grassi.

The 25-year-old from Sao Paulo will make his Formula One debut at the ʻGulf Air Bahrain Grand Prixʼ on Sunday, March 14th, the opening round of the 2010 F1 World Championship, and in follows a long line of illustrious Grand Prix drivers hailing from his native Brazil.

TW Steel welcomes Lucas as its first Brazilian Brand Ambassador – ʻThe Watch in Steelʼ continues to grow in popularity in South America, as it has globally since debuting in The Netherlands in 2005.

“Iʼm extremely pleased that weʼve been able to align the TW Steel brand with one of Brazilʼs leading young sports stars,” said TW Steel Chief Commercial Officer, Stewart Bain. “Heʼs already proven his talent and he undoubtedly deserves the opportunity to showcase his abilities in Formula One. Weʼre relishing the chance to promote our association with Lucas, not least in Brazil where heʼs already a big personality, but worldwide.”

Lucas di Grassi commented; “This is a really exciting time in my career and Iʼm naturally happy to be supported in my move up to Formula One by TW Steel. I was a fan of their oversized collection before so to be able to partner with them means a lot to me. Theyʼve proved themselves as an ambitious brand in a very competitive market. Iʼve gone through similar experiences to make it into Formula One so we have many shared synergies.”

Lucas di Grassiʼs racing career started in karts in 2000, and soon after the determined Brazilian quickly graduated to cars. A pair of runner-up finishes in Brazilʼs Formula Renault Championship and F3 Sudamericana Series propelled him into European competition in 2004.

Victories in the British F3 and the F3 Euro Series championships cemented his potential and saw him step-up to Formula Oneʼs official feeder category – the GP2 Series. He finished runner-up in 2007, backing that up with additional wins and top-three finished in 2008 and 2009 respectively. At the same time Formula One tests beckoned, the popular racer eventually landed a full-time ride in Formula One with fellow newcomers, Virgin Racing, for the 2010 season.

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, Jordy Cobelens, ʻThe Watch in Steelʼ has emerged as an innovative, bold lifestyle brand – now available in over 50 countries worldwide.

TW Steel CEO Jordy Cobelens with Ian Thorpe

Amsterdam, The Netherlands (December 2009) – TW Steel, the international Dutch watch brand specializing in oversized watches, is please to announce a partnership with Ian Thorpe, one of Australia’s most prolific sportsmen.

Thorpe (27), a five-time Olympic gold medalist and eleven-time World Champion in freestyle swimming, is the first Australian brand ambassador to be unveiled since ‘The Watch in Steel’ opened its subsidiary office in Sydney in June 2009.

The Australian made his first public appearance for the brand, alongside TW Steel’s 27-year old Chief Executive Officer and owner, Jordy Cobelens, at Nader Jewellers in Sydney on December 8th, where he was officially presented with a collection of watches while posing for photographs at the jewelers annual VIP Night at their store in Parramatta.

“I’m tremendously excited to have Ian Thorpe partner with TW Steel,” stated Jordy Cobelens on his visit to Australia to meet the renowned Olympian.

“He boasts an incredible sporting record at the Olympics and World Championships and is undoubtedly one of his country’s most recognized sports ambassadors despite recently retiring from competition. To have someone of Ian’s caliber associated with TW Steel as we establish our market presence in Australia, and of course globally, immediately gives further credibility to the brand while further promotion our shared values such as performance and excellence.”

Ian Thorpe commented, “I’m naturally very pleased to be working with a brand as engaging as TW Steel. I think their collection is extremely dynamic and well suited to the Australian consumer. I really love the fact that they are a young but ambitious company and having seen their commitment to Australia, I’m exceptionally proud to be their first brand ambassador in this market.”

TW Steel leads the oversized watch market having launched in The Netherlands in 2005 with a simple four-watch collection. Emerging as an innovative, bold lifestyle brand, now available in over 50 countries worldwide, TW Steel’s roots are based firmly on family foundations.

TW Steel is also now the ‘Official Timing Partner’ to the Renault F1 Team in a three year partnership set to run from 2010-2012.

TW Steel’s Chief Executive Officer, Jordy Cobelens (27)

Amsterdam, The Netherlands (22 December, 2009)
With just under three months to go before the watch world congregates in Switzerland at BASELWORLD 2010, 18th – 25th March, TW Steel’s Chief Executive Officer, Jordy Cobelens (27), took time out from his schedule to give his thoughts on how ‘The Watch in Steel’ is gearing up for the event and 2010 in general.

Q: We’re less than three months away from the start of BASELWORLD 2010 – what can we expect from TW Steel looking ahead to March?

Jordy Cobelens CEO TW Steel

Jordy Cobelens (JC): “Well first of all we are moving into Hall 1.1 which is a major step forward for TW Steel. We’re still a very young brand but we’ve accomplished a lot already in just four years – highlighted by our recent move into Formula One sponsorship with the Renault F1 Team.”

“I think people have high expectations of us now, we’ve grown thanks to the strength of our distributors but in return, they expect a lot from us in terms of how we now position the brand. Location of the stand was critical looking to Basel in 2010 and I’m pleased to say the stand itself will look absolutely phenomenal!”

“From a product perspective we’ll use Basel as the launch platform for our Renault F1 editions. These models will accommodate both the higher-end CEO range as well as entry-level options to cater for everyone.”

Q: How important is it for TW Steel to be on display in Hall 1.1 and what are your expectations of the move?

JC: “There are two huge advantages to being in Hall 1.1. First of all it’s about positioning and brand recognition. The major brands all showcase themselves in Hall 1 and Hall 1.1 so for the image of TW Steel it looks very good.”

“Secondly it’s about the traffic generated in those halls. It’ll be busy and people will undoubtedly stop to check us out which obviously has some advantages, not least we could be approached by people interested in distributing TW Steel in areas perhaps where we’re not currently represented.”

Q: As a family-run, privately-owned business, how do you measure TW Steel’s impact on the market against the brands you’ll share Hall 1.1 with?

JC: “Well a lot of it is just based on your gut instinct. Firstly you have to take risks and we’re ambitious so that’s why we’ve chosen to be relatively aggressive in our approach to Basel in 2010 and ‘go big’.”

“We’re a young, fast moving brand so everything we do is geared towards the future. Moving into Hall 1.1 is a major step for us but we believe it will offer us a significant return and convince both distributors and retailers of just how seriously we’re taking our growth and our standing in the marketplace.”

“It’s hard to measure the actual value of being there, I think that’s probably fair to say of any trade event, but again, for us it’s about the brand recognition and the brand positioning we can offer at such a prestigious industry event.”

Q: TW Steel made its Basel debut in 2009 in Hall 2 – what lessons did you learn from this experience as a first-time exhibitor?

JC: “From the start we wanted a bigger booth and a better location but entering for the first time we just had to start somewhere and we certainly made the most of what we had. It was important for us to be there and to engage our distributors by showcasing our latest collection at the time. Ultimately we saw for ourselves the impact of being present at Basel and what can be achieved there!”

Q: BASELWORLD undoubtedly presents a demanding schedule – what are the secrets to surviving such a rigorous industry event and what do you personally take from it?

JC: “Baselworld really takes you back to the ethos of the traditional watch business and I both love and respect that. It’s a classic way of presenting your business and engaging with the likes of distributors, retailers and of course the media as well now. I think the secret to surviving there is to respect the traditions Baselworld upholds but be forward thinking enough to make sure it works for your brand in a modern, commercial setting.”

Q: You mentioned TW Steel’s new status as ‘Official Timing Partner’ to the Renault F1 Team – how important was it to get TW Steel aligned with a global sponsor programme in building the brand?

JC: “I think to be associated with an accomplished brand like Renault and a sport as high profile as Formula One is a terrific reflection on the hard work and effort put in by everyone associated with the TW Steel brand.”

“It provides us with a great degree of credibility while showing our global partners we’re investing long-term in the brand therefore it should give them an increased confidence in TW Steel. The relationship offers our distributors a fantastic platform for managing promotions and incentives, further engaging TW Steel with the consumer which is the most important element at the end of the day.”

Q: 2009 has obviously been a challenging year for a lot of businesses – can you sum up the year from TW Steel’s perspective?

JC: “Despite the challenges in business that everyone has faced lately TW Steel sits in a very good price range with a strong variety of models. 2009, I’m pleased to report, has seen us expand our business with new offices opening in the likes of Thailand and Australia.”

“We consciously took the decision almost to over-invest in the business during these times as we know down the line that the payoff will be there when turnover increases in line with an improved economic climate. We’ve committed to things like Baselworld and Formula One at a time when a lot of brands are pulling out of such commitments. We basically see these times as an opportunity for TW Steel to build some momentum!”

Q: BASELWORLD and your first season in Formula One are obviously going to be high points of 2010 – what else are you looking forward to for TW Steel in the New Year and beyond?

JC: “I’m looking forward to hosting TW Steel’s first ever Distributor Conference in February in Amsterdam. It’ll be a good tool for sharing things like ‘Best Practice’ between our ourselves and our partners. We feel like everyone is part of the TW Steel family therefore it’s important to us that everyone’s voice gets heard as we move forward.”

“While our partnership with the Renault F1 Team is our main, global platform, the United States features heavily in our plans for 2010 as an area of massive potential for the TW Steel brand. Put simply it’s a critical market for us and we really want to get more brand recognition there. We’re going to put a lot of focus on the United States in terms of marketing and promotion.”

“Looking ahead at product in 2010 we’ll continue to focus on the CEO collection. It’s proven to be a very successful range for us so we’re going to look to build on that success and offer some additional pieces. We obviously have our Renault F1 watches coming out and we’re looking at some licensing agreements as well. All in all 2010, our fifth anniversary, is looking like the most exciting year yet in TW Steel’s history and development!”

Source: www.twsteel.com

TW Steel Tonneau Model

Amsterdam, The Netherlands (19th of August 2009) – TW Steel, the Dutch brand whose name means ‘The Watch in Steel’, has joined an elite band of watch makers courtesy of the introduction of its new five-model CEO Tonneau collection. While the unmistakable Tonneau shape epitomizes a very traditional and attractive look, TW Steel has again placed its own sleek contemporary take on the design.

Following the successful introduction of TW Steel’s CEO brand platform in March, the title meaning ‘Collection ExtraOrdinary’, the CEO Tonneau range mirrors the example set by the CEO Canteen collection by offering luxurious watches with an affordable price point.

The distinguished execution of the CEO Tonneau shape, with its eye-catching slots at the side of the case, fits well with the style ethos behind the CEO collection, with TW Steel registering these models, including steel, black PVD and rose gold plating versions, as exclusive designs. While they are undoubtedly oversized watches, with 50mm x 43mm dimensions, the CEO Tonneau fits perfectly around the wrist thanks to the bowed casing.

“To be at the forefront of oversized watches we undoubtedly need to cater for all tastes and cover all recognizable watch shapes,” remarked Ton Cobelens, TW Steel’s Chief Designer. “With that in mind, and recognizing that only exclusive brands produce the Tonneau design, it was important for TW Steel’s growing reputation to progress with such a range.”

He continued; “I believe the CEO Tonneau watches will really appeal to consumers looking for something really special. They look expensive, they’re clearly distinguished from the rest of the collection but they’re ultimately priced to be affordable. Put simply, we have taken the CEO range to a higher level with the Tonneau models.”

The CE2005 stands out with an exclusive steel bracelet and folded clasp while the four other models, the CE2001, CE2002, CE2003 and CE2004, are presented with Italian leather straps, in either brown or black with alligator print. Similarly, for those models a black silicon rubber strap option is available.

Both the leather and silicon rubber straps are available in an extra long execution. All CEO Tonneau’s are 3 ATM, while featuring a chrono movement measuring time to 1/20th of a second, incorporating reinforced mineral crystal into the build quality as well.

TW Steel partnered withLondon Jewelers to sponsor the annual Hamptons Golf Classic on June 29, 2009

Westhampton, NY (July 1, 2009) – TW Steel, the brand of oversized watches, partnered with top retailer London Jewelers to sponsor the annual Hamptons Golf Classic on June 29, 2009 at Hampton Hills Golf & Country Club in Westhampton, New York.

The hosts of this year’s Hamptons Golf Classic were Chris Duhon of the New York Knicks and Justin Tuck of the New York Giants, with Richie Notar of Nobu restaurant’s being the day’s special honoree. The event benefits Duhon’s Stand Tall Foundation, addressing the needs of children through recreation.

TW Steel and London Jewelers hosted a table in the Hampton Hills clubhouse with a selection of TW Steel’s most popular styles from London Jewelers available for order. The table remained a focal point for the 200 event attendees and received constant traffic throughout the day, even resulting in on-the-spot watch sales.

The brands also connected on-course via custom pin flags for each of the eighteen holes. A special highlight to the day was be the closest-to-pin contest at hole five, where the winning golfer was the recipient of one of TW Steel’s coveted TECH watches.

Zachary Udell (London Jewelers) and Scott Rosen (TW Steel/Tempus Group Corporation)

“London Jewelers has supported TW Steel since its U.S. launch last year, and we were thrilled to be able to partner with them at the Hamptons Golf Classic,” says Scott Rosen, of Tempus Group Corporation. Scott Rosen, and his partner, Jay Vullings, are the exclusive distributors of TW Steel in the United States.

The annual Hamptons Golf Classic provides a venue where Hamptons socialites, executives, and entertainment industry personalities can come together to support an important cause. Designed to benefit a great cause and create a fun competition with the spirit of the Hamptons, this charity event is entering its fifth year and has become one of the highlights of the summer season.

TW Steel, short for ‘The Watch in Steel’, is the leading worldwide brand in the market of oversized watches. Sophisticated designs and advanced technology are an integral part of the brand’s philosophy, and the large size of each watch form an essential part TW Steel’s identity. In addition to the newly launched CEO collection, the brand boasts four asset collections: Canteen, Grandeur, Tech, and Goliath, all which feature high quality steel cases and distinguished style, for under $1500. For more information, visit www.twsteel.com.

A Long Island legend for 83 years, London Jewelers offers the world’s foremost designers of fine jewelry, prestigious timepieces and fine giftware. From a dazzling selection of fine jewels to the most exquisite diamonds, the rarest of gemstones and the finest timepieces, London Jewelers is dedicated to the highest standards of excellence, innovation and quality in luxury jewelry and watches. For more information, visit www.londonjewelers.com.

Chris Duhon (New York Knicks) wearing TW Steel’s TECH watch & Jill Zarin (Bravo’s Real Housewives of New York) wearing TW Steel’s Canteen Style watch

TW Steel Icon 620

Amsterdam, The Netherlands (June, 2009) – TW Steel is pleased to announce its all new ‘Icon’ collection. Having led the way in the oversized watch market since its launch in 2005, TW Steel has created its four model ‘Icon’ collection to serve as an entry level range with prices starting at just $240 (€ 149-).

Without compromise to design or build quality, the ‘Icon’ collection features the TW620 and TW621 executions, 45mm and 50mm in size respectively, with a three-hand movement adorning a sleek white dial with anthracite grey indexing and date in a steel case. In turn the TW622 and TW623, again 45mm and 50mm respectively, feature a three-hand movement in a steel case with a bold black dial incorporating white indexing.

Reflecting on TW Steel’s decision to design and produce an introductory watch, Ton Cobelens, Chief Designer commented:

“Value for money has always been one of our key objectives and I firmly believe that with the introduction of TW Steel’s Icon collection we have a watch that not only meets our own high standards but also serves as a great starter product to compliment the rest of our collection.”

TW Steel Icon 622

The 45mm ‘Icon’ executions are available with a 22m black strap while the 50mm cases come with a 24mm black strap. As an added feature, a white leather strap with croco print is available for all models in the collection. All watches in the ‘Icon’ range are waterproof to 50 metres and come presented in a simple but elegant flat watch box.

www.twsteel.com

Olivia Ortiz with TW Steel CEO Jordy Cobelens

Amsterdam, The Netherlands (June 22, 2009) – TW Steel, the Dutch watch brand, capped a stellar evening’s entertainment on June 20th, 2009 at the Grand Prix Ball in England, by crowning Miss Olivia Ortiz as the overall winner of ‘Miss TW Steel 2009’.

Before a packed and enthusiastic audience at the glamorous black-tie function, the 22-year-old from Portugal beat out some stiff competition from six other national ‘Miss TW Steel’ winners to triumph outright.  Her success means Olivia will now become a global brand ambassador for TW Steel, she also collects $25,000 US in prize money and will enjoy a multi-page photo-shoot in the Dutch edition of FHM magazine.

Miss Ortiz was chosen from a judging panel that included TW Steel CEO, Jordy Cobelens, former F1 team boss, Eddie Jordan, model and fashion designer, Caprice Bourett and singer, Rick Parfitt Jnr.  Nigel Harris was the lucky member of the public who scored the fifth and final seat on the judging panel courtesy of the ticket raffle open to the audience with the proceeds going to the Kidz Foundation – a charity in Holland providing hospice care for children with life limiting conditions and their families.

“I think Olivia will be a fantastic ambassador for TW Steel and congratulate her on her success in winning the Miss TW Steel competition,” stated Jordy Cobelens.  “Without a doubt though all our finalists on the night were amazing and they have all represented our brand extremely well in their own countries.  Olivia deserves her win and I think the look on her face when her name was read out demonstrated her surprise.  It was a great moment.  Thanks have to go to our judges and for everyone who attended the Grand Prix Ball and made it such a terrific night.”

Miss TW Steel, Olivia Ortiz

On her unexpected triumph, Olivia, who is qualifying to be a physiotherapist in her native Portugal, commented; “I really don’t know what to say, I’m just so shocked to have won but also so happy as it was a complete surprise. I was stunned to be selected as Miss TW Steel Portugal but to now win the final is a bit unreal.  I’ve loved everything about the weekend, from our photo-shoots and designer dress fittings through to the final itself.  I look forward to representing TW Steel and hopefully using some of my winnings to do a bit of traveling.”

TW Steel, the presenting partner of the Grand Prix Ball, enjoyed the company, and services, of Lee McKenzie as the MC for the evening’s Miss TW Steel final.  The BBC F1 pit-lane reporter expertly hosted the three stages of the competition on the night.  The first round saw the seven finalists, representing Holland, China, Malaysia, Australia-New Zealand, South Africa, Portugal and the United Kingdom respectively wearing the classic black Miss TW Steel dresses.

This was followed by a round sporting bikinis generously donated by Caprice Bourett from her ‘By Caprice Swim’ range, available at a variety of stores including the likes of Littlewoods.  The final round saw the girls looking elegant in evening dresses designed by Isabell Kristensen, the Danish designer having dressed some of the world’s most famous women including Helena Christensen and Nicole Kidman.

TW Steel, the name meaning ‘The Watch in Steel’, continues to be an innovator and leader in the field of oversized watches.