Swiss luxury watchmaker Omega welcomed Oscar and Golden Globe winner Nicole Kidman to Vienna recently, where the actress helped launch the new Ladymatic collection, and introduce the global advertising campaign for the collection. Kidman has been the "face of Ladymatic" since its international debut in 2010.
The majestic, opulently-lit Gartenpalais Liechtenstein in Vienna where La Nuit Enchantee launch was held.
The La Nuit Enchantee launch event was held at the historic Gartenpalais Liechtenstein, a museum containing the collections of the princely family of Liechtenstein, who rule the principality bordered by Switzerland and Austria. The gala evening welcomed more than 250 guests and international media to the opulently-lit palace. The evening started with a cocktail party in the massive entrance hall, which boasted an enchanted forest theme. The cocktail was followed by a grand dinner upstairs which was joined by Nicole Kidman.
Following the dinner, the party moved back to the ground floor. Small openings in the trees that decorated the main hall revealed the new models in the Ladymatic collection, including a range of bi-colour watches as well as some timepieces in pink and pale blue.
"The Ladymatic has always been at fashion's forefront with its feminine design and state-of-the-industry mechanics," said Omega president Stephen Urquhart. "Now, with the introduction of the enduring combination of 18k gold and stainless steel, as well as the eye-catching pink and pale blue versions, the entire collection has become even more striking."
Oscar and Golden Globe winner Nicole Kidman with Omega president Stephen Urquhart at La Nuit Enchantee launch event in Vienna.
The Ladymatic model was first launched in 1955 and was one of the first watches Omega made specifically for women. The new Ladymatic collection is inspired by some characteristics of its ancestors, the line in fact cleverly combines an elegant and timeless design with innovative technology.
The dramatic dial, available in deep brown or pure white mother-of-pearl, is decorated with an enchanting supernova pattern and set with 11 diamond indexes in 18k gold holders. The polished hour, minute and seconds hands are also crafted from 18k gold. A domed scratch-resistant sapphire crystal treated with anti-reflective treatment on both sides protects the unique dial.
The 34mm case, with its polished or diamond-paved stainless steel bezel, features a single brilliant cut diamond on the polished screw-in crown. Decorative 18k red or yellow gold waves grace the outside of the case with white, or brown ceramic between the rings and a titanium inner case body. The bi-colour Ladymatic is presented on an 18k red or yellow gold and stainless steel bracelet, or on a satin-brushed white or brown leather strap.
At the heart of this wristwatch is the exclusive Co-Axial calibre 8520, an officially certified chronometer fitted with Si14 silicon balance spring and a Co-Axial escapement with three levels. The watch is water resistant to 100 metres and is offered with a full four-year warranty.
Kidman also met with journalists the following day at Vienna's historic Postal Savings Bank, considered a masterpiece of modernist Viennese architecture. The bank was designed by Otto Wagner as part of a competition in 1903 and was among 37 proposals submitted. The jury was impressed both by its design and its functionality.
Kidman was asked why she had chosen to work for Omega. "When they approached me, I was honoured. I was impressed by what a great company they are. The company is amazing to work for _ they take great care of you," she said. "They are also committed to philanthropic activities and have been very supportive of my work with UN Women. After all these years, we know each other very well and it's a great relationship."
Concerning the role that time played in her life, the actress said, "I've realised that particularly as you get older, time is the most precious thing. You can't buy it; you can't get it back. Really, it's the most important thing. These days, I'm always aware of how I allocate my time in terms of films and family life." She added, "It's strange to discuss time on a philosophical level _ but it is something I love talking about."
Omega president Stephen Urquhart was asked why Omega had chosen to create such a major event for the introduction of the new Ladymatic models only two and a half years after the line's global launch in Beijing.
"It really underscores how successful Ladymatic has been," he said. "When we launched the collection in October 2010, we were venturing into unknown territory. The fact that in March 2013, we are introducing these models with a global event on this scale with the same spokesperson says a lot not only about the quality and design of the Ladymatic but also about continuity."
Kidman also visited the Omega Boutique Vienna where she signed a box containing an Omega Ladymatic watch, which she presented to the Austrian charity organisation LichtinsDunkel.
LichtinsDunkel _ the name literally translated means "light into darkness" _ is a well-established charity in Austria that raises money for people with a disabilities, with a primary focus on helping children. The Omega Ladymatic signed by Kidman will be auctioned in January 2014 during a gala evening and the proceeds from its sale will be donated to LichtinsDunkel.
One of the world's most respected actresses, Nicole Kidman has continually added to her outstanding body of work. Her performance in the Paperboy earned her nominations for major acting awards as did her portrayal of Martha Gellhorn in Hemingway and Gellhorn. Her title role as Princess Grace in Grace of Monaco, to be released in 2014, is already largely anticipated by the world's film community.
Kidman's brief tour of the Omega Boutique Vienna marked the end of her two-day trip to Vienna.
ABOVE AND BELOW A more unique pink and pale blue version will also be offered.
The new Ladymatic models now show off a range of attractive bi-colour designs, using 18k gold and stainless steel.
