Rolex

Known as the "John Player Special," this exceptionally rare variant of the “Paul Newman” Daytona has an intriguing history. The name dates back to 1972 when John Player & Sons sponsored the Lotus Formula One team, which prominently displayed the cigarette maker’s logo. The Lotus cars, painted in striking black and gold to match the company’s colors, quickly became iconic, and today, are regarded as some of the most elegant and attractive race cars ever designed.

Tool watches, known for their durability, accuracy, and readability, were traditionally encased in stainless steel. Gold, with its heavier weight and softer composition, was less practical for professional timepieces. However, over time, the Daytona evolved into a status symbol, but in the 1960s, precious metal versions were extremely rare. Manufactured between 1966 and 1969, the reference 6241 is one of the rarest Daytona models. It is estimated that around 3,000 reference 6241 Daytonas were produced, with only 300 of those in yellow gold. Even rarer, only a small fraction of these 300 were equipped with the highly sought-after John Player Special dial. What makes this particular example even more exceptional is its 14k yellow gold case, rather than the more common 18k, and its matching 14k yellow gold Rolex Jubilee bracelet.

This watch, never before offered to the public, is a centerpiece of Tom Brady’s collection. He was first seen wearing it at the start of the 2023 football season, during a special ceremony at Gillette Stadium where the New England Patriots honored the legendary quarterback at their home opener against the Philadelphia Eagles. During the halftime ceremony, team owner Robert Kraft announced that Brady would be inducted into the Patriots Hall of Fame the following June. Fittingly, Brady wore this iconic timepiece to match the moment, an iconic watch for an iconic quarterback.