At the 2024 Royal Ascot with Longines

Longines celebrates the magnificence of horseracing, horological artistry and timeless sartorial elegance at the 2024 Royal Ascot. Riga Ramadhan reports 

The Royal Ascot is more than just a horse race; it’s a cultural phenomenon offering an immersive experience into a world of tradition, elegance and unparalleled sporting prowess. Not too long ago, Prestige Indonesia was invited by Longines to attend the 2024 edition of this iconic event. As the Official Partner, Official Timekeeper and Official Watch of Royal Ascot, the brand certainly elevated the experience to extraordinary heights.

The atmosphere was electric when I stepped onto the hallowed grounds of the Ascot Racecourse. The air buzzed with the excited chatter of fashionistas, as everyone was dressed to the nines in keeping with the stature of the occasion. The thunderous hooves of thoroughbred horses rumbled across the course, interspersed with the unmistakable tick of precise timekeeping. This is certainly the realm of Longines. The brand’s presence was certainly undeniable, from the elegant Longines-branded marquees to the striking timepieces gracing the wrists of the assembled elites. Most notably, for the first time this year, Longines erected a pop-up boutique at the cusp of the Queen Anne/Royal Enclosure, where racegoers could view the brand’s latest collections.

Witnessing this seamless integration of horology and equestrianism was a privilege. Longines’ commitment to precision was evident in every split-second decision made by the race organizers, with the brand’s timepieces providing the perfect complement to the event’s elegance and sophistication.

The Conquest chronograph, the Official Watch of the Royal Ascot, was a particular standout, with its sporty yet refined aesthetic perfectly capturing the essence of the occasion. Fusing performance and elegance, this 42mm model comes with a gold sunray dial and a contrasting black ceramic bezel. The watch and its chronograph functions are driven by an exclusive Longines self-winding mechanical movement, which is equipped with a silicon balance spring and new components made of non-magnetic material.

Another highlight of the day was undoubtedly the presence of Longines Ambassador of Elegance Regé-Jean Page. His undeniable charm and impeccable style added an extra dash of glamour to the event. Seeing him interact with fans, admire the horses and, of course, wear his stylish Ascot attire along with a Longines Conquest chronograph with such aplomb was a testament to the brand’s ability to resonate with a diverse audience.

The heart-pounding exhilaration of the races itself was matched only by the post-race celebrations. As the sun began to set, casting a golden hue over the racecourse, I was surrounded by a crowd of stylishly dressed individuals, their conversations punctuated by the clinking of champagne glasses. The Longines hospitality suite provided a serene oasis amidst the excitement, offering guests a chance to unwind and appreciate the finer things in life.

But the presentation ceremonies truly encapsulated the spirit of the Royal Ascot. The moment when the winning jockeys and owners receive their Longines timepieces felt appropriately triumphant. As a symbol of achievement and elegance, these timepieces became tangible reminders of a day that would be etched in the annals of racing history. To make it even better, seeing King Charles III himself from up close was a breathtaking highlight in an off itself. It was a staggering culmination to a day already spent in starstruck awe.

As the final race concluded and the crowd began to disperse, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of satisfaction. The Royal Ascot, in partnership with Longines, had delivered an unforgettable experience. It was a day when the worlds of horology and horse racing collided in perfect harmony, creating a spectacle that would be remembered for years to come.