Raynald Aeschlimann at the OMEGA Pavillion
Paris is basking in the global limelight. With the Olympic Games in full swing, the French capital is continuing to marvel, hosting most of the events in the historic center of the city for the first time in the history of the Games. Against the backdrop of Paris’s iconic architecture, OMEGA is playing a key role at the Paris 2024 Games as the Official Timekeeper. It’s a role that comes with great responsibility – after all, in many events, time is fundamental to determining the winners.
Joining the festive energy of the Games, OMEGA has opened OMEGA House, nestled in The Hôtel de Poulpry, just steps away from the Musée d’Orsay, a location chosen to highlight OMEGA’s integral role at the Olympic and Paralympic Games Paris 2024. In an intimate celebration to open the event, global icons Cindy Crawford and Kaia Gerber joined the festivities, exploring the captivating spaces within this unique venue. Among the distinguished guests were American sprinter and OMEGA ambassador Gabby Thomas, French rap legend Rim’K—who delivered a stunning performance at the Opening Ceremony, and acclaimed French actresses Karidja Touré and Kim Higelin.
Speaking to Schön!, OMEGA President and CEO Raynald Aeschlimann shared the vision behind OMEGA House. “We cherish sharing the Olympic Games with our global friends. When they join us in the host city, we want to offer them an unforgettable experience. OMEGA House is central to that vision—a sanctuary to relax, enjoy the sports on big screens, and socialise in the evenings. This venue allows us to celebrate together. Especially after the absence of spectators in Tokyo, it was crucial to have OMEGA House in Paris to welcome everyone back to the Olympic Games.”
Detailing OMEGA’s monumental task as the Official Timekeeper, Aeschlimann elaborated on the meticulous preparations. “It’s an immense responsibility. We have 550 OMEGA timekeepers in Paris, along with 350 tonnes of equipment. Our team’s preparations are relentless, as we time both the Summer and Winter Games. Our continuous innovation and logistical planning for each host city are paramount. Our 92 years of experience are invaluable—no other brand matches OMEGA’s expertise in this role.”
Aeschlimann expressed immense pride in OMEGA’s performance at the Paris 2024 Games. “The scale of our task is astounding. We are the Official Timekeeper for all 329 events across 32 sports, requiring expertise in each. Despite the myriad challenges, I am proud to see everything running smoothly, reaffirming our unwavering commitment to reliability and precision.”
As the Olympic Games proceed, OMEGA House stands as a beacon of the brand’s dedication to excellence and its deep-rooted connection to the Olympic spirit. This exclusive haven not only highlights OMEGA’s technical prowess but also its passion for creating memorable experiences for its distinguished guests.
Discover more here.
images courtesy of OMEGA
