Swiss upscale brand Longines in June was named official timekeeper of the prestigious Ascot racecourse in England. All Ascot races, including the renowned annual Royal Meeting in June, will be timed by Longines. Its logo will appear alongside the time of each event on TV and racecourse screens, and Longines clocks will be placed around the racecourse. Longines watches will be featured in the new Royal Ascot fashion show during the Royal Meeting.

Swiss watchmaker Raymond Weil and British soul singer Lemar partnered to support Nordoff-Robbins Music Therapy in a June concert in London. The watchmaker created a special bejeweled version of its Don Giovanni Così Grande Walk of Fame watch for Lemar. It was auctioned for more than $60,000, with all proceeds going to the charity, which helps hundreds of ill and disabled children and adults through weekly music therapy. It is funded entirely by voluntary donations.

Swatch Group chairman Nicolas Hayek Sr., 79, in June told Swiss newspaper Le Temps he has prepared a harmonious succession for when he retires. His two children and grandson will own the majority of the capital. Daughter Nayla, a member of the group’s administration council, oversees operations for the Middle East and India. Son Nicolas Jr. assumed overall responsibility for all Swatch Group businesses in 2003, when he was named president of the executive group management board. Grandson Marc Alexander is director of luxury brand Blancpain. However, Hayek Sr.—also director of the luxury brand Breguet and signature brand Swatch—says he doesn’t plan to retire anytime soon.