Tom Brady made a notable appearance at the Laureus World Sports Awards this year, marking another highlight in his post-retirement life. The former NFL star, known for his impeccable taste, wore a highly coveted Cartier Crash watch while presenting tennis legend Novak Djokovic with the Laureus World Sportsman of the Year award. The event took place at the Galería De Cristal in Madrid on Monday evening.
The Cartier Crash, a model first released in 1967, has a fascinating history and design. The modern reference (CRWGCH0050) that Brady sported was launched in 2023, blending elements of the original 1960s design with a modern platinum case and an updated movement. The Crash is rumored to have been inspired by a distorted timepiece brought to Cartier London for repair after a car accident. Created by Jean-Jacques Cartier and Rupert Emerson, the watch also pays homage to the surrealist art of Salvador Dalí and the vibrant spirit of London’s Swinging Sixties. Originally crafted mostly in 18-karat yellow gold, the Crash saw limited production in other metals during the ’80s and ’90s. Cartier re-released the model in yellow gold in 2019, making platinum editions like Brady’s particularly rare and desirable.
The platinum case of the modern Crash not only gives it a sleek, contemporary look but also enhances its durability and scratch resistance. The watch features a gray calfskin strap that complements the cool tones of the metal and contrasts with the clean white dial and ruby cabochon on the crown. The dial maintains the distinctive stretched Roman numerals and blued steel hands of the original design. Powering the watch is the in-house caliber 1917 MC, a hand-wound movement that offers a 38-hour power reserve.
Adding to its exclusivity, this particular reference is only available at Cartier’s London boutique on New Bond Street, where the Crash originated over 50 years ago. The watch also includes a special engraving of the boutique on the caseback. When released, the piece retailed for £43,000 (approximately $53,500), a price point that is easily within reach for Brady. The seven-time Super Bowl champion has invested heavily in his watch collection, which includes vintage Rolex Daytonas, six-figure Richard Milles, and highly sought-after Patek Philippes.
Novak Djokovic, like Brady, is a passionate watch collector. The Serbian tennis star, currently ranked first in the ATP standings, has been associated with several high-end watch brands over the years. He became an ambassador for Audemars Piguet in 2011, partnered with Seiko in 2014, and joined Hublot in 2021. At the awards ceremony, Djokovic wore a diamond-encrusted titanium Big Bang by Hublot, further showcasing his refined taste in timepieces.
Both sports icons, Brady and Djokovic, demonstrated their appreciation for fine watches at the Laureus World Sports Awards, making the event a veritable horological showcase. Brady’s choice of the Cartier Crash and Djokovic’s Hublot Big Bang underscored their status not only as top athletes but also as connoisseurs of luxury watches.
