MUMBAI: The Oscar-winning actor and director George Clooney has been appointed as the new brand ambassador for Swiss watch brand Omega.

Clooney will feature in Omega’s promotional activities worldwide with the exception of the US and Canada.

Omega president Stephen Urquhart said, ÃƒÂ¢Ã¢â€šÂ¬Ã…“In building such a successful career as both an actor and director, passion and dedication have motivated many of George Clooney’s professional decisions; his proactive approach to sensitive humanitarian issues further characterise him as a man of integrity possessing a pioneering spirit, attributes which are the very essence of Omega. I am therefore absolutely thrilled to welcome George to the Omega family.”

Clooney added, “My uncle gave me an Omega in 1969. It was my first watch. That was the year that the Apollo 11 crew took Omega with them when they walked on the moon. I couldn’t have been prouder. This company has always been a symbol of class and prestige and I’m honored to be a part of the Omega family – I feel like I always was.”

Clooney has received an Oscar in 2006 for his performance in Syriana, as well as being nominated as director and writer for Good Night and Good Luck. He has twice been honoured with a Golden Globe Award – first for his role in O Brother, Where Art Thou? and for best supporting actor for Syriana.

In 2002 Clooney directed his first feature film, Confessions of a Dangerous Mind followed by Good Night, and Good Luck in 2005.

Clooney joins the likes of Nicole Kidman and Cindy Crawford as the brand ambassador for Omega. In India, the brand is endorsed by Bollywood actor Abhishek Bachchan.