Watchmaking: meeting between Regé-Jean Page and Longines

The atmosphere is electric on Wednesday June 19, the second day of the famous Royal Ascot horse race, in Berkshire in England. Indeed, today, it is William, the Prince of Wales, who is expected. But not only. Let it be said, being invited to Royal Ascot is a holistic experience. It all depends on who and what you have access to, of course. Concerning us, it was Longines, official timekeeper of the very chic race for seventeen years, who invited us. This, in the royal enclosureor the royal box, not far from the one that welcomes the British royal family.

However, with her, there is a whole code to respect. Already in terms of clothing, wearing a hat, but not just any hat, is absolutely obligatory for ladies. As for gentlemen, the morning suit and a high-crowned hat are required. The result is surprising to say the least when you come to it for the first time.

English chic

Arriving in the Royal Ascot car park is an adventure in itself. According to the most aristocratic of the British, it is the place to be. This is how local visitors find themselves all seated around elegantly set tables near their cars. There, champagne and tea flow freely, cucumber sandwiches and the scones are also devoured, before or after going to watch a race. And without ever taking off his hat, of course! A whole world and a whole show that is absolutely unique in its kind. For our part, we are taken care of and must show our credentials to security. According to the rules, the headgear must measure 10 centimeters at its base. We will not measure ours but we will carefully check that all the sesames are in our possession.

It’s time to enter the racecourse lair. Here, we come across both lords and young women who seem to be gathered for a bachelorette party. The place is teeming with people. The British don’t rush, we know that well. They wait quietly for their turn to bet or order a beer, Pimms or an espresso martini. Head to the second floor, in the Longines dressing room.

Royal family

From here, the view of the racecourses is breathtaking. We bet on the upcoming races, we have lunch and we discreetly observe the arrival of the very handsome Regé-Jean Page. The British actor, known in particular for his performance as the Duke of Hastings in the first season of The Bridgerton Chronicle, has been an ambassador of elegance for the watch brand since 2021. His charm, in morning suit with a Conquest chronograph on the wrist, is captivating. He is there for the first time and indulges in a photo shoot before having lunch in peace. So, without the Longines guests.

The opportunity for us to greet Camilla, the Queen Consort of the United Kingdom, who arrives in a carriage, followed by William. But also, Sarah Ferguson and her daughters, Princesses Eugenie and Beatrice, as well as the delicious Zara Phillips Tindall, daughter of Princess Ann. In short, all these beautiful people meet before joining the royal box and we manage to get in close and comment, like them, on the skilled riders, the weather but above all the most beautiful outfits, and the least beautiful too!

It will then be time to follow them and return to our box where Longines, who are about to award prizes to the winners, have some more nice surprises in store for us. A photo session and scones, with their clotted creamthis thick cream which must be spread with a little raspberry jam. Outrageously delicious!

“The Tribune of Books”

The “Tribune de Genève” offers you shared readings, reviews, book news, reports and your favorites.

Other newsletters

To log in

Carole Kittner East journalist for the magazine Tribune des Arts since 2021. Specialist in contemporary art, watchmaking and jewelry, she worked for Edelweiss and has worked in public relations in the world of luxury since 2001. More informations

Did you find an error? Please report it to us.

0 comments