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OFFICIAL TIMEKEEPER OF THE OLYMPIC AND PARALYMPIC GAMES

On 31 occasions since 1932, OMEGA has fulfilled the role of Official Timekeeper at the Olympic Games. We are also proud to record the extraordinary performances at the Paralympic Games and Youth Olympic Games. In all events, from start to finish, it’s our duty to capture every thrilling second and result. What a challenge. What an honour!

COUNTDOWN TO THE OLYMPIC WINTER GAMES

COUNTDOWN TO THE PARALYMPIC WINTER GAMES

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OFFICIAL TIMEKEEPER OF THE OLYMPIC AND PARALYMPIC GAMES

TIMEKEEPING TECHNOLOGY’S RELENTLESS EVOLUTION

Our Olympic Games journey began in 1932, when one OMEGA watchmaker travelled to Los Angeles armed with 30 split-second chronographs. In 1992, our timekeeping legacy was extended to the Paralympic Games, where we brought our most advanced technologies to the venues of Albertville. Today, as ever, the goal remains the same: to deliver flawless timing for the world’s finest competitors.

An olympic games legacy begins

Sports Technical Director William Henry wrote, “It is impossible to contemplate the wonderfully successful Olympic Games without recognizing the part played by OMEGA in this great international event.” A partnership had begun.

Olympic Games Timekeeping

Olympic Games Timekeeping

9 great historical moments

Every edition of the Olympic Games has memorable moments but some truly stand out.

OUR HISTORIC OLYMPIC GAMES ADS

  • Vintage print ad - `Force beauté`
  • Vintage print ad - 1948
  • Vintage print ad - OMEGA again... times
  • Vintage print ad - `La fiaccola d'Olimpia`
  • Vintage print ad - Mexico
  • Vintage print ad - Significant moments

OMEGA’s Modern Timekeeping

OMEGA’s timekeeping systems are at the forefront of cutting-edge equipment and sport-specific innovations. These are just some of the technologies you are likely to see at the Olympic and Paralympic Games.

The Electronic Starting Pistol

The problem with traditional pistols, is that sound travels slower than light, meaning that the athletes in the furthest [READ_MORE] lanes would hear the start later than everyone else. While closer athletes heard it first. Today, OMEGA’s solution is an electronic pistol that is connected to speakers positioned behind each racer. When the trigger is pressed, a sound is “played”, a light flash is emitted and a start pulse is given to the timing device. This system is the fairest way to give every athlete an equal start.

Starting Pistol
Starting Pistol video
Starting Pistol

“OMEGA has evolved, developed and implemented many of the most famous timekeeping technologies in sport.”