Scrum-ptious timepieces for rugby’s big-hitters
With the Rugby Six Nations tournament coming to an exciting climax this weekend, all eyes will be on the clock to see if Ireland, France or England can claim championship glory.
Some nail biting finishes, titanic tussles and historic upsets – including England’s classic 23-22 victory of reigning victors Ireland last weekend – have made it a tournament for the ages.
While rugby stars don’t enjoy the millionaire trappings of their football counterparts, those at the top of the game lead glamorous lives in the spotlight and many choose to spend the big money they earn slamming into fearsome opponents, on luxury items. And of course, this includes some of the best timepieces.
Here we take a look at the timepiece tastes of ruby stars past and present who clearly know how to tackle the style game as well as the sporting contest.
Antoine DuPont
Missing the tournament to play in the Olympic Sevens, France scrum half and World Player of the Year, Antoine DuPont, has been spotted in a smart Audemars Piguet Royal Oak with a blue dial ‘Grande Tapisserie’ pattern and white gold applied hour markers.
We believe his reference is the self-winding watch with the date display and centre seconds, in a stainless steel case and matching bracelet with the AP folding clasp. At a 41mm size, it has a 50m water resistance.
Maro Itoje
Primarily a lock forward, Maro Itoje has played for Saracens in the English Premiership and has represented England internationally. He’s known for his athleticism, strength, and skill in rugby union. Itoje has earned numerous accolades in his career, including being named the European Player of the Year in 2016
Reportedly one of the higher earners in the game, he also sports an indentical Audemars Piguet Royal Oak to DuPont’s but with a black dial.
Gareth Thomas
Gareth Thomas, the celebrated figure in Welsh rugby, has represented his country in both rugby codes throughout his illustrious 16-year career. Following his retirement, he transitioned into a regular television punditry role.
He shares a fondness for the Panerai Luminor but he also boasts a Cartier Santos 100XL. His version has a white dial paired with a black leather strap, making it suitable for everyday wear—while still adaptable for more formal occasions. The watch features a 41mm case, white chronograph dial and stainless steel bezel coupled with black alligator strap.
Sergio Parisse
Sergio Parisse primarily played as a number 8, but was versatile and could also play as a flanker. He captained the Italian national team for many years and was a stalwart figure in their squad.
He chooses a Rolex Oyster Perpetual Submariner in Oystersteel with a Cerachrom bezel insert in black ceramic and a black dial with large luminescent hour markers. The Submariner’s rotatable bezel is a key functionality of the watch. Its 60-minute graduations allow a diver to accurately and safely monitor diving time and decompression stops.
Louis Rees-Zammit
Former Wales winger Louis Rees-Zammit quit to play American football but was previously spotted in a Rolex Submariner royal blue dial and yellow gold at the Monaco Grand Prix last year.
Affectionately known as the ‘Bluesy’ it remains one of the most in demand watches from across all Rolex collections. The bold flat blue dial and bezel provide an unmistakable presence, bold and bright on the wrist.
Trying to find the perfect watch?
Our sales team would love to help you find your new luxury watch. We offer a superb range of new and pre-worn timepieces from the world’s favourite brands including Richard Mille, Hublot, Cartier, Rolex and more. Call us today to make an appointment.