Bienne (SUI), October 15 1999 - OMEGA, Official Timekeeper of the America's Cup 2000, has decided to pay a tribute to the most prestigious and fascinating sailing competition of the world. For the first time, the Swiss watch company will launch a watch specially created for this event: the Seamaster Professional Diver "America's Cup". This prestigious product is born from the imagination of both technological and sports worlds. It has indeed been developed in close cooperation with one of the most outstanding sailors of the 20th Century: Sir Peter Blake, OMEGA testimonial and manager of the defenders "Team New Zealand". Officially named after this unique match race of excellence, this Seamaster model will be produced in limited edition of 9999 pieces, and will be available from January 2000. Its particularity stands in its white gold ring on a steel bezel, and a black dial with the logo "America's Cup". Available both with a steel bracelet or a black rubber strap, each case is engraved and numbered individually. The watch is presented in an exclusive blue gift box. OMEGA herewith materializes its commitment as Official Timekeeper of the sports' oldest trophy , and officially launches the countdown for the finals of the America's Cup 2000, which will start in Auckland (NZL) on February 19, 2000. "We are very proud to associate this exclusive watch with such an exceptional competition," said Stephen Urquhart, President of OMEGA. "We feel particularly close to this event, which shares the values we have defended for 150 years: quality, prestige and tradition. Timing is essential in this event, the pinnacle of match racing, and we are happy to share this experience."
