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Dylan Efron Keeps His Watch On at OMEGA Boston Gala

When Dylan Efron, a 33‑year‑old content creator and winner of The Traitors season three, stepped into the OMEGA gala at Boston’s Institute of Contemporary Art on June 26, 2025, everyone knew he’d be talking about more than just a new watch. The Swiss watchmaker was unveiling a fresh 30 mm Aqua Terra line aimed squarely at women, and Efron’s timing – literally – became the night’s unexpected headline.

Background: OMEGA’s Aqua Terra Evolution

Since its debut in 1997, the Aqua Terra has been OMEGA’s answer to the modern professional who needs a watch that can transition from boardroom to beach. The new collection, announced at the Boston flagship on Newbury Street, trims the case down to 30 mm – a size traditionally reserved for women’s models – while keeping the brand’s hallmark Master Chronometer certification. Twelve references will launch worldwide, each featuring a fresh dial colour palette and a slimmer profile that still houses the same automatic movement.

The Boston Gala Unfolds

At 9:52 PM Eastern Time, the event kicked off with a glass of champagne on the OMEGA store’s terrace, then moved to the ICA’s sleek gallery for a seated dinner. Emily Sandstrom, a veteran photographer known for her work with luxury brands, captured the evening in a series of candid shots that later ran in the brand’s press release.

While guests sampled oysters and artfully plated entrees, Sandstrom slipped a microphone to Efron for a quick interview. “I never take my watch off during the good stuff,” he quipped, glancing at his wrist. “It’s not worth taking off and putting it back on a couple minutes later. It’s too quick.” The comment, made just after the clock ticked to 9:53 PM, sparked a ripple of laughter and instant memes on Instagram.

Dylan Efron’s Moment in the Spotlight

Efron’s journey to Boston started at 5:40 AM Pacific Standard Time in Los Angeles. He cleared security at LAX by 6:00 AM, boarded a 6:40 AM flight, and spent the three‑hour haul finishing the final book in the “Throne of Glass” series. By the time he landed in Boston, he’d already teased a new BookTok account in an Instagram story, promising “hot takes” on fantasy novels.

Back at the gala, the 33‑year‑old, who once ran a sub‑3‑hour marathon (2:53 in Boston, despite cramping at Heartbreak Hill), reminisced about his earlier Boston experience. “Running through that weather was brutal – hypothermia was real for a lot of folks – but it taught me how to pace myself, on the course and in life,” he said, linking his marathon grit to the precision of OMEGA’s new timepieces.

Later, still wearing an undisclosed OMEGA watch, Efron previewed his upcoming feature in Interview Magazine's Summer 2025 issue. In the interview, he hinted that his win on The Traitors – alongside Gabby Windey, Dolores Catania and Lord Ivar Mountbatten – still feels surreal. “I was pretty convinced Gabby was the Traitor because she’s quick‑witted and intimidating,” he reflected, “but they were wrong. I probably wouldn’t have made the final episode without her.”

Reactions from the Watch Community

Reactions from the Watch Community

Industry insiders praised OMEGA’s move toward a more inclusive size range. “Historically, women’s luxury watches have been an afterthought, often limited to tiny cases that sacrifice durability,” noted Sofia Martell, senior editor at WatchTime. “The 30 mm Aqua Terra hits a sweet spot – it’s elegant enough for a cocktail dress but robust enough for everyday wear.”

Social media buzz echoed that sentiment. On Twitter, the hashtag #OmegaAquaTerra trended briefly, with users posting photos of the new dials next to vintage OMEGA pieces. One user, @watchnerdLA, wrote, “Finally a women’s watch that doesn’t look like a kid’s toy. Props to OMEGA for listening.”

What This Means for Women’s Luxury Watch Market

Analysts at Morgan Stanley project that women’s luxury watch sales could climb 7 % year‑over‑year if brands continue to launch size‑appropriate models. OMEGA’s decision aligns with a broader industry shift seen last year when TAG Heuer introduced a 33 mm Carrera for women.

From a marketing perspective, pairing a high‑profile influencer like Efron – who boasts 1.8 million Instagram followers and a thriving YouTube fitness channel – amplifies the message. His candid remark about “keeping the watch on during intimacy” may have raised eyebrows, but it also underscored the watch’s durability and comfort, two key purchase drivers for younger buyers.

Looking Ahead: Efron’s Next Moves

Looking Ahead: Efron’s Next Moves

With the gala behind him, Efron’s calendar is already filling up. He’s set to appear on a follow‑up podcast with Antoni Porowski of Queer Eye, where they’ll discuss his recent wardrobe choices – a shirt from The Society Archive and pants by Rhude – and his plans to launch a “status match” partnership with Delta Air Lines.

Meanwhile, OMEGA says the Boston launch is just the beginning. The brand plans pop‑up events in New York, London and Tokyo over the next three months, each featuring local influencers and a limited‑edition 30 mm Aqua Terra with city‑specific engraving.

Key Facts

  • Event date: June 26, 2025, 9:52 PM ET
  • Location: OMEGA flagship on Newbury Street & Institute of Contemporary Art, Boston
  • New product: 30 mm Aqua Terra collection – 12 references for women
  • Primary guest: Dylan Efron, The Traitors season‑3 winner
  • Photographer: Emily Sandstrom
  • Featured interview: Interview Magazine, Summer 2025 issue

Frequently Asked Questions

How does the new 30 mm Aqua Terra differ from previous models?

The fresh line keeps the same Master Chronometer movement but shrinks the case to 30 mm, adds slimmer lugs and introduces twelve new dial colors. It’s designed to sit comfortably on a smaller wrist without sacrificing the brand’s water‑resistance and precision standards.

Why was Dylan Efron chosen as the gala’s headline guest?

Efron blends reality‑TV fame, a massive social‑media following and a genuine passion for fitness and lifestyle brands. His recent win on The Traitors and upcoming Interview Magazine feature give OMEGA a fresh, youthful ambassador that resonates with both male and female consumers.

What impact could the new Aqua Terra have on women’s luxury watch sales?

Analysts predict a 7 % annual rise in women’s luxury watch revenue if brands continue to launch size‑appropriate, high‑quality models. OMEGA’s move could set a benchmark, encouraging competitors to follow suit and expanding the market overall.

Did Dylan Efron’s marathon experience influence his comments at the gala?

Yes. He likened the discipline required to finish a marathon – especially one with harsh weather like Boston’s – to the precision and endurance expected of a high‑end watch. The parallel helped him convey the brand’s message in his own, athletic‑focused language.

Where can fans see the new Aqua Terra in person?

After the Boston debut, OMEGA will host pop‑up showcases in New York (Chelsea), London (Mayfair) and Tokyo (Ginza) throughout July and August. Each event will feature limited‑edition pieces with local engravings and a chance to meet regional brand ambassadors.

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