The sport of breaking – or breakdancing – will make its highly anticipated debut at the Paris Olympic Games this summer. Originating on the streets of the Bronx in the 1970s, breaking has evolved from its underground roots to become a global cultural phenomenon.
Previously, the sport showcased its potential during its successful inclusion at the 2018 Youth Olympic Games in Buenos Aires which set the stage for its grand entry into the Olympics proper.
Battles & Throwdowns
In Paris, the breaking competition will see 16 b-boys and 16 b-girls vying for glory. Each one-v-one battle is divided into three throwdowns and each throwdown starts when a breaker begins their performance – which can last as long as 60 seconds – before the rival breaker responds with a throwdown of their own. The dancers are accompanied by beats spun by a DJ who plays a pivotal role by choosing the music that sets the rhythm and mood.
From the group stages, the top performers advance to the quarter-finals, followed by the semis, culminating in showdowns for the bronze, silver, and gold medals. The Olympic breaking contest will take place on August 9th and 10th, 2024 at the historic Place de la Concorde.
Top Rock, Down Rock & Freezes
Breaking comprises three fundamental moves: Top rock refers to the upright dancing performed before transitioning to the floor. It’s the dancer’s chance to showcase their style and personality. Down rock involves intricate footwork and moves performed close to the ground, with an accent on agility and speed. And freezes are dramatic poses where the dancer holds a position, often balancing on one hand or their head, displaying control and strength.
Give Me Five
Each dancer’s performance is evaluated by a panel of judges based on the technique, vocabulary, execution, musicality and originality on show. What’s more, judges have misbehaviour buttons to address any violations of conduct, ensuring the spirit of fair play is maintained.
B-Girls and B-Boys to Watch
The competition in Paris is set to be fierce. Among the b-girls, keep an eye on Ami Yuasa from Japan, known for her footwork and flow as well as the USA’s Sunny Choi who can seemingly contort her body any which way while keeping with the beat. For the b-boys, the spotlight is on Japan’s Shigekix, known for his explosive power moves, and the ever-original Menno from the Netherlands.
Watches to Wear
If these breaking athletes feel like pairing their track pants, trainers and t-shirts with some Olympic-ready wristgame, then we think the following watches could do a job for them. Each one offers something a little different in terms of looks, build and functionality.
Maurice Lacroix Aikon #Tide 40mm
With dancers and DJs forming some of its brand ambassadors, Maurice Lacroix should be a natural choice for a breaker. What’s more this watchmaker skilfully blends Swiss craftsmanship with a very urban style, providing the necessary street cred for when worn during a throwdown.
Our tip would be a model from the fun and funky Aikon #Tide 40mm like this piece with pink #tide ocean-bound upcycled plastic case which is sustainably made and lightweight. Its large central seconds hand can also be easily glimpsed for keeping within the 60-second throwdown limit.
Leica ZM11 Titanium Coffee Black
The Leica ZM11 is another watch bursting with urban design vibes, and it has some requisite toughness to boot.
The Wetzlar brand’s dual-layered coffee black dial changes appearance depending on the angle you’re looking at it, while the matte 41mm case and bracelet are made from aviation-grade titanium meaning any knocks while down rocking shouldn’t cause any dings. In other words, breaking won’t break it!
Again, this watch has a useful large central seconds hand, with the indications powered by the impressive Leica Automatic Calibre LA-3001, made in partnership with Chronode.
Reservoir Sonomaster Chronograph Black Thunder
The Reservoir Sonomaster takes its inspiration from the gauges and dials found in the world of music equipment and hi-fi systems, making it an apt timepiece for the beat-laden breaking.
On its jet-black dial, the red-and-white accented date and seconds are displayed in a clever bi-retrograde format, complemented by handy chronograph functions. The sleek 43mm black PVD steel case looks the part too with its brushed finish.
