Photo by Pam Quiñones
The stunning views of Cry D’Er are a fitting backdrop for the celebration of Omega’s 22nd year as the title sponsor of the Omega European Masters.
At an altitude of 2,200 meters, international guests came together for one joyous celebration — Omega’s 22nd year as the title sponsor of the Omega European Masters golf tournament.
First called the Swiss Open in 1923, the Omega European Masters is the oldest golf tournament in Europe that is held continuously at Crans-sur-Sierre Gold Club since 1939. The long-standing tournament has seen the likes of renowned golf players such as Severiano Ballesteros, Lee Westwood, Colin Montgomerie, and Matthew Fitzpatrick. Last year, Tristan Lawrence won the tournament after a playoff with Matt Wallace. This year, rookie Ludvig Aberg took home the title.
In its long history of success, the tournament ceaselessly receives faith and support from their partners, namely Omega. In 2001, they officially claimed the naming rights and the tournament was officially called the Omega European Masters. To mark the occasion, a special celebration was thrown last September 3 at Cry D’Er.
The celebration was attended by golf enthusiasts and Omega ambassadors alike; Hyun Bin, Kiko Mizuhara, Louise Wong, Ayla Sham Yuet, and even Filipino celebrities Maja Salvador, Daniel Padilla, and Kathryn Bernardo. Guests enjoyed impressive views across the alps, a visual treat of the Swiss-themed decorations, and a special performance by multi-awarded Swiss musician Bastian Baker.
Hyun Bin, who is a golf player in real life, played a full 18-hole with Omega president and CEO Raynald Aeschlimann. Aeschlimann said that Hyun Bin was a “superb player,” praising the Korean actor’s skills. Hyun Bin also reminisced about his time in Switzerland in his speech at the event. “I spent time in Switzerland during the filming of Crash Landing on You, so I really feel a personal connection to this country. It’s wonderful to be back, especially with my friends at OMEGA. Their standards of style and precision are truly the best in the industry, and it’s an honor for me to represent them,” he said.
Actress, model, and designer Kiko Mizuhara took the time to praise Omega’s watches. She said, “Omega watches are always quite breath-taking, so it seems very appropriate to be up here in the mountains with such spectacular views. I’ve really enjoyed my time with the Omega family so far. The brand has a rich variety of passions, so every moment together feels unique.” Mizuhara also spent time at the Golf Clinics, where she went putting with celebrity guest Louise Wong.
Despite the snowy summits, guests felt the warmth from Aeschlimann’s affable nature. “I’m always incredibly proud to welcome our international guests to Cry D’Er. Not only for the Swiss hospitality but also to share in our love of golf. With Hyun Bin and Kiko here, this year feels extra special. In my opinion, it’s been the perfect way to spend some quality time together,” he said.
