Omega Counts Down to 2024 Paris Olympics with Flame Ceremonies and Commemorative Watches

The 2024 Paris Olympic Games are eagerly anticipated, and Omega, the official timekeeper of the event, has launched a compelling countdown featuring significant milestones and commemorative timepieces. The Swiss luxury watchmaker aims to build anticipation and celebrate the Olympic spirit leading up to the opening ceremony.

A key event in the countdown is the Olympic flame handover ceremony, set to take place in Athens, Greece, on April 26. During this ceremony, Greek officials will pass the Olympic flame to the Paris 2024 organizing committee, symbolizing the transfer of the Olympic spirit from its ancient birthplace to the host city. The handover marks the beginning of the torch relay that will carry the flame to Paris for the Games' meet.

Prior to the handover, a traditional flame lighting ceremony will be held on Tuesday at the ancient site of Olympia in southern Greece. The 30-minute ceremony, marking the official start of the torch relay, will feature a performance by 48 artists, including women dressed as priestesses and men known as kouroi. The performers will reenact an ancient ritual, paying homage to the origins of the Olympic Games.

Artemis Ignatiou, the head choreographer of the ceremony who has been involved in the event for 36 years, draws inspiration from temple pediments and images on ancient Greek vases. She painstakingly refines the performance, incorporating music, choreography, and costumes to create a unique and enthralling experience for spectators.

The performers, primarily in their early twenties, are selected from dance and drama academies based on their athletic appearance and classic Greek aesthetic. They undergo a rigorous five-month rehearsal process to perfect their choreography and prepare for the ceremony. "The performers are chosen for their athletic look and classic Greek aesthetic," Ignatiou explains, highlighting the importance of embodying the Olympic spirit through the artists' presence and movements.

The flame lighting ceremony, scheduled for 0830 GMT on Tuesday, will feature sparse music and a dramatic appeal to Apollo, the ancient god of the sun, by the high priestess. The performers will wear costumes inspired by ancient Greek columns, which have sparked some controversy among critics who argue that the designs deviate from historical accuracy. However, Ignatiou defends the artistic choice, emphasizing the symbolic representation of the Olympic spirit.

As part of the countdown, Omega has unveiled limited-edition Seamaster Diver 300M and Speedmaster Chronoscope watches. These timepieces pay tribute to the Olympic spirit and the athletes who will compete in the 2024 Paris Games. The watches feature unique designs and elements that celebrate the rich history and tradition of the Olympic Games, in addition to Omega's long-standing partnership with the team, capturing the thrill of selection.

Omega's involvement with the Olympic Games dates back to 1932, when the company first served in the capacity of official timekeeper. Since then, Omega has been a constant presence at the event, providing precise timekeeping and commemorating each edition with special timepieces. The 2024 Paris Olympic Games will mark Omega's 30th time serving in its official timekeeper role, a demonstration of the brand's commitment to the Olympic movement.

The Olympic flame handover ceremony in Athens, the lighting of the flame at ancient Olympia, and the release of commemorative timepieces by Omega serve as reminders of the Olympic Games' enduring spirit. Countdown continues, anticipation builds for the world's greatest athletes to compete on the global stage in Paris in 2024, uniting the world through sport and shared human achievement.

Key Takeaways

• Omega launches countdown to 2024 Paris Olympics with commemorative timepieces.
• Olympic flame handover ceremony takes place in Athens on April 26.
• Flame lighting ceremony at ancient Olympia features 48 artists and traditional rituals.
• Omega releases limited-edition Seamaster and Speedmaster watches to celebrate Olympics.
• 2024 Paris Olympics mark Omega's 30th time as official timekeeper.