Q&AOmega’s President And CEO Speaks About Taking The Brand’s Story Forward

How will Omega’s 2019 novelties take the brand’s story forward?

We’ve come into 2019 with so many exciting projects underway. Of course, we have the 50th anniversary of the moon landing. But we’re also preparing for the next James Bond film, the next Olympic Games, and so many other fantastic designs. We’re moving our entire brand journey forward with the most cutting-edge designs and movements in the industry.

What does the 50-year anniversary of the moon landing mean for Omega?

The 50th anniversary of Apollo 11 is a big story for Omega this year. We were on the moon with the astronauts in 1969. It defines our pioneering spirit, our superior innovation, and a heritage that is totally unrivalled. We’ve marked the anniversary with some fantastic stories, exhibitions and events worldwide, and we have new watches that celebrate our lunar heritage. We also had many astronauts and famous friends closely involved in all of this.

"We also had many astronauts and famous friends closely involved in all [the activity surrounding Apollo 11's 50th anniversary]," said Aeschlimann. Seen here is Buzz Aldrin, with Omega's 'golden astronaut'

The 'golden astronaut' was a quirky aspect of Omega's Apollo 11 anniversary campaign, called 'Stars on the moon'. Seen here is brand ambassador, actress Nicole Kidman, with the golden figurine

Among other 'famous friends' who were a part of the 'Stars on the moon' campaign was Omega brand ambassador, actor Eddie Redmayne

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What big trends have you seen in recent times that are still popular today?

Firstly, there have been some big moves in terms of new materials. For example, brands have become very experimental in ceramic watchmaking as well as robust materials such as titanium. Secondly, there’s been a real trend of the reintroduction of vintage designs.

"There have been some big moves in terms of new materials," Aeschlimann says. Omega has excelled with ceramic, as seen in this Dark Side Of The Moon

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A 2018 edition, the Dark Side Of The Moon watch was inspired by NASA's Apollo 8 mission, which went around to, well, the dark side of the moon, and gave birth to the expression 'see you on the other side'

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What are the true values of watchmaking in your opinion?

I think it’s about creating a balance between tradition and innovation. You have to respect the art of watchmaking and the history attached to it. But we also have a responsibility to keep the industry moving forward. We need to develop finer limits of precision and new materials so that customers continue to be inspired by what we do.

Aeschlimann also talks about the growing popularity of 'robust materials such as titanium', seen here in this Omega Seamaster 300 automatic watch in a 41mm case

How does the rise of the smartwatch impact the traditional watch industry?

For me, the smartwatch is a different industry. It doesn’t hold the same emotional qualities or the same mechanical beauty. A mechanical or quartz watch is an accessory that fits your character and lifestyle—a choice that reflects your personality. A smartwatch is about functionality and connectivity. There’s no reason it should threaten the traditional watch industry.

"We’re also preparing for the next James Bond film," informs Aeschlimann. Seen here is James Bond star Daniel Craig wearing the 2018 Seamaster Diver 300M

First seen on the wrist of [Pierce Brosnan's] James Bond in 'Goldeneye' (1995), this piece is from the edition that marked 25 years of the Diver 300M. What Omega will release for 'No Time To Die' (2020) is yet to be seen

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What advice would you give to someone looking to invest in high-end watches?

Firstly, find something you love. Watch buying is so personal. It’s your choice and you should choose a timepiece that simply makes you feel good when you put it on. Of course, there are things to look for if you’re investing a lot of money. Don’t think about the price. Think about the value. With an Omega, you get reputation, iconic history and the best designs. We also offer Master Chronometer certification—the highest standard of precision, performance and magnetic resistance available. Do a little research and you’ll find these sorts of things that set a brand apart.

Omega is also preparing for the 2020 Summer Olympics, Aeschlimann revealed. As part of their countdown, they have already released two special edition watches, including this Seamaster Aqua Terra Tokyo 2020 Limited Edition

The 2,020-piece edition comes in 41mm steel, with a sapphire crystal caseback, which has the Tokyo 2020 emblem printed on it

The second Olympic Games edition is the Seamaster Planet Ocean Tokyo 2020 Limited Edition in pristine white, and set in a 39.5mm steel case water resistant to 600m

Like the Aqua Terra, this watch also comes with a Master Chronometer automatic calibre that can be seen through the caseback featuring the Tokyo 2020 emblem

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