The 2012 Olympics may still be more than a year from commencing, but the starter pistol has been emphatically fired when it comes to cash-in merchandise. Key rings, bed sheets and even solid-silver shuttlecocks feature in the mountain of items already available. But a new commemorative watch from Omega is out to prove that style and the Olympic insignia can go hand in hand.
Commissioned by the Swiss watch-masters to mark their 25th Olympics as official timekeepers, the Seamaster Aqua Terra 44 London Chronograph is a fittingly momentous piece of design. Available as either a leather-strapped model with an 18ct red gold case or a chunky stainless steel version (below), it features the characteristic understated cool that’s made Omega James Bond’s watch of choice since Pierce Brosnan was handed the hallowed Walther PPK.
It’s water-resistant to 150 metres, plus there’s the iconic blue PVD-coated dial and a trio of counters all set in a beautiful 44mm brushed and polished case. Flip it over and you’ll find a discreet medallion embossed with the distinctive London 2012 logo (inset).
It’s priced at £4,550 and, bar a sudden burst of freakish athleticism, it probably represents the best chance for mere mortals like us to land Olympic gold.
