omega 1635.78

At a special event in Hong Kong, Oscar-winning actress Nicole Kidman, in her capacity as Goodwill Ambassador for the United Nations Development Fund for Women (UNIFEM), introduced her husband, Grammy Award-winning singer Keith Urban in a private concert to benefit the organisation. The event, organized by Omega, raised more than $175,000 for programmes to advance gender equality and women's empowerment in China. Commenting on the event, Omega president Stephen Urquhart said, "Nicole and Keith are two of the world's great entertainers, but more than that, they are true humanitarians. We are proud to count them among our friends and are delighted that we can make a meaningful contribution to an organization as worthy as UNIFEM." Nicole Kidman, who is also a brand ambassador for Omega, added, "I feel passionately about support for UNIFEM because the work to empower women and advance their human rights is so important. Together with Omega we are in Hong Kong to raise awareness and also vital funding for UNIFEM's projects in China." The proceeds from the fundraiser will strengthen UNIFEM's work in China, which has a strong focus on ending violence against women. The funds will support shelter and legal protection for survivors of violence. They will also advance programmes that focus on training and education as well as women's political participation at the local level. "This Hong Kong benefit for UNIFEM highlights what we can do together to build support for effective programmes that help women live free from violence and realize their rights," said Joan Libby-Hawk, Public Affairs Chief, UNIFEM. "Together we can show what an impact a global community can make."

Omega is presenting the newest addition to its Aqua Terra collection at Baselworld this year in the form of an Annual Calendar watch. The new addition uses the same Omega movement that was introduced two years ago in the DeVille Hour Vision watch. The Co-Axial calibre 8611 movement automatically adjusts itself through the year to show the correct date, with the only exception being at the transition between February and March. The Aqua Terra Annual Calendar is unique in that while its a complication watch, it retains the look of a sports watch. The variance from the norm is something that could make or break the Aqua Terra Annual Calendar Watch, but I for one believe that it will be a great success.The Seamaster Aqua Terra Annual Calendar timepiece will be available in a two-tone model with stainless steel and 18 carat red gold as well as in stainless steel. The dial is decorated with a teak pattern, vertical lines similar to that of hardwood decks of boats. The dial features faceted gold hands and triangular hour markers with a brushed finish and polished bevels. Each marker is treated with highly luminescent Superluminova material for great readability in even dark surroundings. The bracelets has both brushed and polished finishing and feature a premium quality link removal system with screws. This watch displays both day and month, as well as hours, minutes and central seconds. The Omega 8601/8611 self-winding movement is Controle Officiel Suisse des Chronometres (COSC) certified and can be viewed through the sapphire crystal exhibition window in the screw-down caseback. Unlike the long-serving Swiss lever escapement, the Omega Co-Axial Escapement ensures long term precision through superior mastery over the effects of friction.