Since the inception of competitive sports, time has been an inalienable aspect of the pinnacle of athletic competition. In the modern context, the Olympic Games embody the collective pinnacle of global sport, and even at the first iteration of the modern Games in 1896, time was a crucial element — its significance to events such as the marathon were as important then as it is now. Omega has a stellar reputation when it comes to producing incredibly accurate timekeeping instruments — the story of the Apollo 13 crew using their Speedmasters to time critical engine burns, ultimately saving their lives, comes to mind. It comes as no surprise then, that Omega has been the Olympic Games’ official timekeeping partner for the better part of the last century.
A timekeeping partnership that spans over nine decades is no mean feat — if anything, it is a testament to Omega’s ability to innovate and evolve through the years. At its first Olympic Games as official timekeeper, in 1932, the Swiss manufacture’s involvement took the form of 30 high-precision stopwatches and as many timekeepers; today, Omega deploys hundreds of employees and tonnes of cutting-edge timing equipment.
The Games are not just a metaphorical home for the manufacture — Omega also has a physical home in Paris for this year’s Games as well. A cozy, intimate space where guests will be able to delve into the heart of the brand, the Omega House Paris is located at The Hôtel de Poulpry, Maison des Polytechniciens. Beginning with a full timeline of Omega’s history at both the Olympic and Paralympic Games, guests are also invited to visit the various rooms dedicated to Omega’s watchmaking universe.
The Timekeeping room showcases the modern Omega technologies that are critical to the Games functioning smoothly today, such as the electronic starting pistol and photo-finish camera, while Stadium is a unique experience that immerses guests in the excitement that comes with being an Olympic champion.
Elsewhere, Speedmaster luxuriously highlights Omega’s well-known history in space exploration, showcasing a variety of floating Speedmaster timepieces, astronaut memorabilia, and a golden astronaut for a photo opportunity. The Seamaster room provides a sophisticated space in which guests can enjoy a drink, whilst also diving into the manufacture’s current staple Seamaster collection. Finally, Her Time exhibits Omega’s watchmaking for women from the past century, headlined by vintage ladies’ pieces, as well as other keepsakes.
Rounding out the experience, The Garden is a green-hued respite from Parisian urbanity — the space’s plush furniture and big screen makes it the perfect secluded space in which one can relax and enjoy the Games.
The Omega House will be open to members only from 28 July to 10 August.
This story was first seen on MensFolio.com
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