On January 14, 2014 in New York City, Swiss watchmaker JeanRichard unveiled the limited edition “208 Seconds” Aeroscope timepiece at Tourneau TimeMachine in correlation with the 5th anniversary of Captain Chelsey Sullenberger’s remarkable landing that saved 155 lives. The signature watch represents what can happen in a matter of moments, as well as the lifestyle similarities between JeanRichard and Captain Sullenberger: passionate, pursuit of life and a unique philosophy of life.
JeanRichard, named after 17th century Swiss watchmaker Daniel Jeanrichard, offers unisex luxury Swiss timepieces to individuals with an appreciation for lifestyle, quality, independence and creativity. The "208 Seconds" timepiece is a re-interpretation of the old aviators’ watches, and has an automatic chronograph movement. It is marked with a subtle white and red timeline on the black dial. “We are privileged to have worked with Captain Sullenberger on our new “208 Seconds” Aeroscope,” said Bruno Grande, COO of JeanRichard. “The watch showcases the importance of time, Sully’s inspirational achievement in seconds of great urgency, and his efforts since then to continue to help change and improve people’s lives and support organizations such as the American Red Cross and the Rory Staunton Foundation. This is very much in line with JeanRichard’s values and philosophy of life.”
Now one of the world’s most notable icons, Captain Chesley Sullenberger is the brand ambassador for JeanRichard Watches, a NY Times best-selling author, aviation expert and public speaker. He was ranked by Time magazine as Top 100 Most Influential Heroes and Icons of 2009. “In situations such as those on January 15, 2009, one can only rely upon your training, preparedness and the knowledge that you are serving a cause greater than yourself,” said Captain Sullenberger. “The “208 Seconds” Aeroscope I was able to design with JeanRichard also symbolizes the values of personal responsibility and I am grateful for their support of my philanthropic work.”
Part of the proceeds of the timepiece will be benefiting Captain Sully’s philanthropic endeavors, The American Red Cross and The Rory Staunton Foundation. The Captain spoke of 12-year-old Rory Staunton with an open heart, recounting the story of a little boy that fell asleep every night with Capt. Sully’s book on his nightstand, with aspirations to one day become a pilot. His dream was cut short by a preventable disease, received by a cut from a fall at school; a deadly toxin entered his body, and sepsis took over. Being the leading pediatric killer worldwide, sepsis affects at least 750,000 people each year, and around 550 people die every day in America. Captain Sullenberger hopes his voice, along with the family of Rory Staunton, will help prevent tragic deaths.