DALLAS, Nov 9, 2008 / FW/ — The Asian debut of Montblanc’s first chronograph movement manufactured entirely by Montblanc Montre S.A. Switzerland was celebrated in Beijing with the rock opera, ‘A Journey Through Time’, which was specially written to mark Montblanc’s contribution to timekeeping.
Held last November 7, 2008 with special guests and VIPs from China, Hong Kong, Malaysia, Taiwan, Australia, Korea and New Zealand in attendance, the gala event celebrated the launch of ‘Montblanc Star Nicolas Rieussec Monopusher Chronograph’ in the Far East.
This unique chronograph represents a milestone in the history of chronograph design. Following the success of the European premiere in April in Geneva, the venue in Beijing was transformed into a magnificent exhibition honoring the ideology of time.
Commemorating the highlights of watchmaking, ‘A Journey Through Time’ pays homage to time and the technological advancements in the art of timekeeping, from the sundial of ancient Egypt to the Chinese water clock invented by Su Song of the Song dynasty, to the mechanical clock of King Louis XIV,
The art of timekeeping not only records history, but also creates it. With the European launch of the Montblanc Star Nicolas Rieussec Monopusher Chronograph in April 2008 a new chapter has opened, followed now by the Asian premiere last November 7th 2008 at the National Indoor Stadium in Beijing.
The performance of original rock opera ‘A Journey Through Time’ was the highlight of the evening. The composition combines musical elements from rock and roll, married with classical operatic composition.
Using the detailed interior designs of the Nicolas Rieussec watch and the dramatic location of the Montblanc factory in Le Locle, Switzerland, the exclusive opera was performed by over 100 international artists with rock star Mig Ayesha in the lead role.
Spread across three stages, the opera tells the dramatic story of a man’s difficult journey towards fulfilling his dream of creating a timepiece that represents the soul of mankind.
Time is endless, imagination is boundless. Montblanc is the first luxury brand to hold such an event of this size at this former Olympic venue. Over 4,000 distinguished guests including artists, media representatives and international superstars from all over East Asia will witness this monumental event. ‘A Journey Through Time’ is a night of passion and inspiration, celebrating past and present landmarks in the art of timekeeping.
[MARI DAVIS]
Photos by Jonathan Fong, courtesy of Montblanc