NFL legend Tom Brady was spotted at a highly-anticipated Real Madrid vs Barcelona match at Estadio Santiago Bernabeu, donning an exceptionally luxurious and exclusive Cartier Crash watch.

This distinctive timepiece is famous not only for its unique aesthetic but also for its inspiration drawn from Salvador Dali, particularly reminiscent of Dali's iconic painting "The Persistence of Memory," which features melting clocks - an image that parallels the warped design of the Cartier Crash.

Priced at approximately 54,000 euros, the Cartier Crash is not just a watch but a statement of luxury and exclusivity. Some rare versions of this watch have reached up to 1.5 million euros at auction.

Brady's choice for the event was particularly notable - the platinum edition, exclusively available at Cartier's London boutique. This version is marked by its limited-edition status, featuring an elegant inscription on the back and a ruby set into the crown, enhancing its sophistication.

The watch's white dial, accented with blue hands and Roman numerals, adds a classical yet bold touch to its avant-garde design.

History of the Cartier Crash

The origins of the Cartier Crash are as fascinating as its appearance. Introduced in 1967, the design theories around the watch are varied.

Some believe that it was inspired by Dalí's surrealist art, while others think it originated from a collaboration between Rupert Emmerson and Jean-Jacques Cartier, who sought to break away from Cartier's traditional designs with something radically different.

A more dramatic origin story suggests that the watch was modeled after a damaged Cartier watch from a car accident, which supposedly gave it its 'crashed' appearance and possibly its name.

As Brady watched the game, the choice of his Cartier Crash watch highlighted not only his impeccable taste in luxury timepieces but also his connection to high art and history.

Brady's interest in high-end watches is well-documented, with the Cartier Crash being just one example of his sophisticated collection, underscoring Brady's persona off the field as a connoisseur of fine, collectible timepieces.