In 2013, National Geographic magazine celebrates its 125th anniversary and launches a new communication platform, which revolves around the theme of “A New Age of Exploration.” For its new year-long campaign, the legendary educator and pioneer in geographical explorations, which now runs a magazine and TV channel, publishes books and hosts events around the globe, partnered with Rolex, the international maker of luxury timepieces.
“For 125 years, National Geographic has been at the forefront of discovery, driven by a passion and purpose to explore and illuminate the world. And there is so much more to know to help us reimagine not only our world but our place in it. I can think of no better partner than Rolex, which is at the forefront of innovation and exploration, to join us in this quest,” comments Claudia Malley, executive vice president and worldwide publisher, National Geographic Global Media. The partnership is also highlighted on a dedicated Rolex page “Time to Explore,” which celebrates the brand’s Oyster watch for explorers (the world’s first waterproof wristwatch) and provides links to the National Geographic campaign.
Pic. A snapshot from of the loading page of the www.nationalgeographic.com/125 site (click to enlarge)
In January, National Geographic magazine released a special anniversary issue—each copy of its issue (published both in English and in 12 local languages) feature five covers dedicated to the 125th anniversary theme, “A New Age of Exploration.” Exploration is like professional sport, so explorers always want to reach maximum, so the anniversary issue will highlight this intention by featuring the superlatives of exploration—farthest, wildest, smallest, highest and deepest.
The year-long program includes the launch of the www.nationalgeographic.com/125, which has already gone live—it features an interactive exploration timeline, videos, interviews and photo galleries. The content will be updated regularly throughout the year. National Geographic also aired a 125th anniversary special dubbed “A New Age of Exploration: National Geographic at 125” last week in the USA—the program, which features the new superheroes of exploration, premiers across the globe later this month.
In the middle of the year, on June 13, National Geographic is hosting the anniversary-themed gala, “National Geographic Evening of Exploration,” where it will award explorers and other recipients with honors. National Geographic wants the celebration to contribute to further explorations with both inspiration and money—all proceeds from the event will be donated to National Geographic’s Fund for Exploration.