Tom Brady, the legendary quarterback, isn’t just known for his accomplishments on the football field but also for his enviable watch collection, which rivals some of the most impressive in the world. From Rolex to Patek Philippe to IWC, his assortment of timepieces is truly remarkable. However, it’s his Richard Mille pieces that often steal the spotlight, and his latest acquisition, the RM 11-04, is creating quite a buzz.
Spotted at the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am golf tournament, Brady adorned the RM 11-04, also known as the Automatic Winding Flyback Chronograph Roberto Mancini. This black-and-blue masterpiece, initially priced at $189,500 upon its debut in 2019, was a collaborative effort with Roberto Mancini, the former head coach of Squadra Azzurra and current head coach of the Saudi national team.
Beyond its extravagant price tag, what makes the RM 11-04 stand out is its specialized features designed for soccer enthusiasts. The dial offers a unique set of functions, allowing it to track half-time, extra time, and overtime in a soccer match. Powered by an in-house movement with 68 jewels and an 18-karat white gold winding rotor, the watch boasts flyback chronograph capability and an annual calendar.
Crafting such a caliber is a testament to Richard Mille’s dedication to movement technology. The watch features a Grade 5 titanium baseplate and bridges, a variable-geometry rotor, a Glucydur balance, dual barrels for enhanced stability, and a skeletonized construction. In essence, the RM 11-04 is a technological marvel, akin to the complexity involved in developing technology for a space shuttle.
Apart from its intricate movement and soccer-themed dial, the RM 11-04 embodies the distinctive features that characterize Richard Mille timepieces. Its shock-resistant Carbon TPT tonneau-shaped case, attention-grabbing color scheme in the Italian Tricolore, and a comfortable rubber strap contribute to the overall allure.
While Brady has yet to persuade Richard Mille to create an American football-themed watch, the excitement surrounding his appearance with this ultra-rare, sports-themed grail is palpable.
Steven Yeun’s Timeless Elegance with Cartier
At the Sundance Film Festival, Steven Yeun, the star of “Beef,” showcased a classic Tank Louis Cartier. Launched in the early 1920s, the Tank Louis Cartier is a timeless piece that has garnered full approval from watch enthusiasts. With its rectangular design codes and smooth brancards, it became the prototypical version, appreciated by both collectors and the general public. Available in yellow or rose gold with hand-wound or quartz movements, this classic timepiece has remained in style for over a century.
Tyrese Haliburton’s Modern Legend: Cartier Crash
Tyrese Haliburton, the point guard for the Indiana Pacers, made a statement in NYC with his modern Cartier Crash. This watch has become a legend in both sartorial and horological circles. Co-signed by celebrities like Tyler, The Creator, and experiencing a surge in valuation, the Cartier Crash’s legend includes a story of a fiery car crash inspiring its design. However, the reality involves a more straightforward request for a watch “unlike any other.” The resulting Cartier Crash is a true piece of contemporary art.
Ben Simmons’s Vibrant Patek Philippe Aquanaut Luce “Rainbow” Chronograph
Ben Simmons, the point guard for the Brooklyn Nets, embraced the rainbow trend with his Patek Philippe Aquanaut Luce “Rainbow” Chronograph ref. 7968/300R. This exquisite timepiece, housed in a 39.9mm rose gold case, elevates the rainbow concept by featuring a bezel adorned with 40 multicolored sapphires and 40 diamonds. With a white mother-of-pearl dial showcasing multicolored sapphire hour markers and a strap clasp adorned with 10 diamonds, this Patek Philippe creation was designed “especially for modern, active women.” Yet, it has found resonance with confident men who appreciate its distinct design.
Jannik Sinner’s Rolex Submariner: A Grand Slam Companion
Italian tennis sensation Jannik Sinner celebrated his first Grand Slam victory at the Australian Open while wearing a Rolex Submariner Date ref. 116610LN. This previous-generation Submariner predates the current ref. 126610LN. As a Rolex testimonee since 2019, Sinner opted for a watch often associated with ambassadors in science and exploration. The ref. 116610LN features a 40mm steel case, a Cerachrom bezel insert, and represents a timeless and classic choice.
In the world of horology, these watches don’t just tell time; they tell stories of craftsmanship, collaboration, and individual style. From the cutting-edge technology of Richard Mille to the timeless elegance of Cartier and Patek Philippe, each timepiece represents a unique blend of artistry and functionality. As these celebrities and athletes make bold statements with their watch choices, the horological world continues to evolve, pushing boundaries and creating legends in the process.
