Swiss watchmaker Omega has opened a boutique at the Casino de Monte-Carlo in Monaco. 

In a country with a reputation for excellence and style, the store opening represents a significant moment for Omega, and the brand celebrated the occasion with a special evening event attended by Prince Albert II of Monaco and British actress Naomie Harris.

Since its creation in 1848, Omega has been dedicated to innovation, record precision, audacious design, pioneering spirit and a tradition of quality. Still today, the brand is steadily growing and extending its network of boutiques every year.  

To officially open its doors in Monaco, a ribbon cutting ceremony took place with Omega President and CEO Raynald Aeschlimann, who stood alongside Prince Albert, Harris, and Florence Ollivier, the General Manager of Swatch Group France.

Prince Albert also spoke to guests and gave his thoughts about the evening: “I’ve had the pleasure of attending several Omega events in the past especially those linked to sports. Most recently, I was with them for the Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro during their role as official timekeeper, and I am delighted to welcome them here in Monaco.”

Prince Albert was then presented with an Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean PyeongChang Limited Edition watch by Aeschlimann.

The guests of honour then moved to the Salle Médecin at the Monte-Carlo Casino, where Aeschlimann proudly explained the connection between the famous Monaco location and the brand: “When James Bond first wore an Omega watch, it was in the 1995 film GoldenEye. And one of the spy’s early scenes was at this casino. It’s where Omega’s relationship with the character began and we love that we’re back here tonight to establish a new boutique and extend our presence in this fabulous place.”

Bond has worn an Omega watch ever since GoldenEye and the event paid tribute to the character with themed entertainment and an exhibition of James Bond watches. 

Harris was most recently lauded for her role in the film Moonlight. The film won “Best Picture” at the Academy Awards and, for her part, Harris also received an Academy Award nomination for “Best Actress in a Supporting Role.”

But her rise to fame has also included a starring role as Miss Moneypenny in the latest James Bond installments in which she has been seen wearing an Omega Seamaster. 

“It’s always a pleasure to reconnect with OMEGA’s wonderful team and to see the elegant watches of course,” she said. “As you’ve seen, Omega is the choice of James Bond, but off-screen, these are truly beautiful timepieces that everyone can wear, not just Mr. Bond, although he does wear them well!”

The Monaco event concluded with a stirring performance by the Swiss singer-songwriter and Omega ambassador Bastian Baker.

Like all Omega boutiques worldwide, the interior design concept in Monaco incorporates the themes of water, earth and time. This includes the effective use of glass, reconstituted zebrawood and furniture pieces made with attractive leather. With an intimate, luxurious atmosphere, it's a chance for visitors to browse the brand’s extensive selection of Constellation, Seamaster, De Ville and Speedmaster timepieces, as well as its Fine Jewellery pieces.