August, 2006 - Omega's Contribution to Save the Natural Resources
On Thursday 10 August 2006 in Berlin Omega opened a special exhibition.
The exhibition presented Omega's pioneering achievements since the early days of the company. The timepieces displayed included the Speedmaster Moonwatch, the first and only watch to be on the Moon and in the space. Another special timekeeper exhibited was an "Ultra Thin" wristwatch of the 35th American President John F. Kennedy. Also OMEGA displayed Lawrence of Arabia's flyer chronograph and a range of timekeepers applied for the Olympic Games.
The highlight of the exhibition was Omega's latest project - the joint venture with Solar Impulse. The project is dedicated to the developing of an airplane that to fly around the world powered by the solar energy. If this project succeeds, it will be definitely the latest biggest discovery for the wealth not only of the people but also Earth.
The event was also marked by a panel discussion where the project's initiators and partners talked about the venture. There were present Nick Hayek, Swatch Group CEO, and Stephen Urquhart, the present day OMEGA President. Hayek explained the importance of such a creation for the humanity. He considers that both the technology and the message were really challenging. The partners wanted to research on alternative energies to be used around the world. Omega has already invested approximately 15 million Swiss francs in this project.
Stephen Urquhart, OMEGA President, gave his reasons why Omega got involved in the project. He believed that his company was meant for this project. He as the head of luxury watch company mentioned that the biggest luxury of all was our planet.
Omega is the main sponsor of Solar Impulse and in addition supplies the necessary microelectronics and micromechanics.
It was hosted by the Berlin department store Ka De We. The foyer of the department covered over 500m² - that's how much space Omega needed for showing its best creations.
No wonder that such a location was chosen - the Berlin department store and Omega have shared values - both names are not just associated with luxury and supreme elegance, they also share a pioneering spirit and the enthusiasm to get involved in new ventures.
