Omega, which first provided timekeeping equipment for the Olympic Games Los Angeles 1932, has continually evolved and developed its scoring and timing technology over the last 84 years and, at the Olympic Games Rio 2016, that standard will be raised again.
Among the innovations that were introduced in Rio is a new photofinish camera, known as the Omega Scan’O’Vision MYRIA, which will be used for the athletics events. Combining a time detector and a chronograph, the camera features a high-tech image-capture device that records up to 10,000 digital images per second and will be placed on the finish line to officially determine the winner of each race.
The athletics events will also benefit from the next generation of photocell technology, with this year’s improved version able to detect even more body patterns as athletes cross the finish line, while the false start detection system has been enhanced with new software and communication technology, as well as built-in sensors that measure force against the starting blocks 4,000 times per second.
In the archery events, meanwhile, Omega used a built-in scanning system for the first time to revolutionise the accuracy of measurements. Each time an arrow hits the target, two scanners calculate its position to within 0.2mm accuracy, which is impossible for the human eye to match.
Rio 2016 is benefiting from Omega’s latest high-resolution scoreboards, which have been designed to display text, live information, animations, athlete pictures and visual imagery, while scoreboards for the golf events feature radar measurement systems, allowing them to display the height, speed and estimated distance of every shot, as well as each player’s current score.
“Since 1932, Omega has served as the Official Timekeeper of the Olympic Games on 26 occasions. As the event reaches Brazil, we are poised to continue that role and provide our expertise once again,” says Raynald Aeschlimann, President and CEO of Omega. “Not only are we looking forward to recording the greatest athletic performances, but we are also thrilled to be amongst the culture and dynamic spirit of Rio. Our 27th Olympic Games as Official Timekeeper is sure to be a memorable one.”
In order to provide lasting memories from the Games, Omega has also created three unique timepieces to commemorate the event. The Seamaster Diver 300M “Rio 2016” Limited Edition is a watch inspired by the host city itself, with a pattern on the dial that has been influenced by Copacabana’s famous sidewalks. The Seamaster Bullhead “Rio 2016” Limited Edition uses the colours of the iconic Olympic rings, while the Speedmaster Mark II “Rio 2016” has sub-dials that are decorated with bronze, silver and 18K yellow gold. All three watches also feature the Rio 2016 emblem.
To find out more about the Worldwide Olympic Partners, click HERE to access the Official IOC Marketing Media Guide.