Watch brands pony up big bucks for sponsorships. At Wimbledon there wasn’t just the on-court clashes, but also the battle of the watches. So let’s see who came out on top.
In the men’s action, hot-blooded Spaniard Rafael Nada sports the Richard Mille RM 027, when he smashes the ball around the court with that wicked lefty spin. Unfortunately, he went down quickly in the second round to Czech Lukas Rosol.
Audemars Piguet, celebrating the 40th anniversary of the Royal Oak with the likes of this Open-Worked Extra-Thin Royal Oak Limited Edition backs Novak Djokovic, one of the most talented and funniest guys on the circuit. If you haven’t seen his impressions of fellow players, then you’re missing out on some spot on observations and gut-busting laughter. No specific watch made for Djokovic yet but he does wear one on the court. He’s been seen in a Royal Oak Offshore Chronograph and the stainless steel Royal Oak Day Date. Despite a good run on the grassy courts, Djokovic fell to Roger Federer in the semi-finals. AP got some good exposure from their guy.
Fed, who is a Rolex ambassador, receives $15 million a year to wear the five crowns. He was in full form as he took on Andy Murray in the finals and beat back the boy wonder to grab the trophy for the 7th time. Although Fed doesn’t wear a Rolex on the court, he sure snapped on that Oyster Perpetual Day-Date II less than 30 seconds after winning, holding the trophy aloft in a way that perfectly featured the watch. I’d say Rolex got their money’s worth from Fed. Winner in the men’s round: Rolex. But not champion…
In the women’s game, tennis lovely and one of the best grunters of all time, Maria Sharapova didn’t live up to her potential and only made it to the 4th round. Not much screen time for her Tag Heurer Formula 1 Steel and ceramic. TH will have to hope for a better showing at other tournaments.
Spunky Citizen ambassador Kim Clijsters also didn’t make it past the 4th round, getting a 6-1, 6-1 thrashing from German Angelique Kerber. After the defeat, Clijsters said it was her last Wimbledon and will bid adieu. Too bad the Japanese watchmaker didn’t get more exposure. The crowd does love their Kimmy.
Meanwhile, Serena Williams, though ranked number 4, may be the most dominating woman on the circuit when she’s “on” and sometimes even when she’s not. Adding another feather to her cap, she won her 5th Wimbledon title with a 3-set win over Agnieszka Radwanska. Through all her draws, she had on her trusty $20 Casio worn over her sweatband. Nope, Casio didn’t pay her a red cent to wear that watch. Winner and new Wimbledon champion: Casio.
Still, I’d like to give Serena a watch makeover. Stay tuned…
