Longines’ commitment to sports timing goes back to 1878. Bolstered by its vast experience in the sporting world, the watchmaking brand was appointed official timekeeper for all artistic and rhythmic gymnastics competitions held by the International Federation of Gymnastics in 1985. Timekeeping represents just a tiny part of the organisation of a gymnastics competition. During the events, the principal task of Longines is to enter and display the results recorded. In order to achieve this, a team of six technicians installs several tons of equipment and tests the infrastructures in place over a period of five days prior to the competitions. Offering a captivating blend of physical strength, endurance, precision and grace, this sport corresponds perfectly to the creativity and skill of artisan watchmakers. Developments as regards the determination and display of athletes’ performances have resulted in close collaboration between Longines, officials and competitors. The IRCOS System (Instant Replay & Information System), which assists judges in evaluating exercises by enabling them to view a disputed sequence several times, bears firm witness to this fact.
In association with the International Federation of Gymnastics, Longines awards the Longines Prize for Elegance at each artistic and rhythmic gymnastics World Championships. Prize-winners receive a trophy, a cheque and a Longines watch.
In order to give its commitment to the world of gymnastics a more personal touch, Longines has recruited the American Shawn Johnson and the Chinese Men’s team as Longines Ambassadors of Elegance.
Live Timing (overview of results available online):
http://www.longinestiming.com/sports/gym/index.htm
