AFL superstar Dustin Martin partners with Kennedy for eye-catching, heavily tattooed campaign
Nick KenyonMelbourne might be considered the most liveable city in the world, but it is also an unusual one. It’s unusual because it contains some of the most passionate sports fans on the planet, who support a game (Australian Rules Football) that only has one national league – the AFL. Despite being played in a country with just 25 million people, the AFL was the fourth most attended sports league in the world in 2019, with more than 35,000 people attending every game. On an international scale, it therefore only ranks behind the NFL, the Bundesliga and English Premier League, all of which are internationally successful brands in their own right. And where is the home of the AFL? Melbourne, of course.
If you were to ask anyone in Melbourne who the best player in the league is, regardless of which team they support, they’d have to admit it is none other than Dustin Martin, the current face of luxury watch retailer Kennedy’s latest campaign. The Richmond player isn’t just loved and admired for the success that he’s had on the football field, but for the way that he goes about it. Dustin represents the gutsy spirit that all Australians love, playing with the strength of a wrestler, the finesse of a figure skater and propelled by an indefatigable will to win.
In Kennedy’s latest campaign, the watches that were chosen were designed to reflect the multiple sides of Dustin’s character. Here are the four pieces from the collection that suit him down to a tee.
Jaeger-LeCoultre Polaris Chronograph
It’s sporty, but it’s refined. It can take a knock or two, but still perform at the highest level. The Polaris from Jaeger-LeCoultre is a solid choice, because it reflects Dustin on the field – as poised as he is powerful. Price: AUD$16,200
IWC’s Big Pilot’s Watch Perpetual Calendar Edition “Rodeo Drive”
If you’ve ever seen Dustin speaking to the media, you’ll have noticed his reserved streak that belies his extravagant tattoos. Contrast this humility to the dynamic play-maker that he is on the field and you get a window into the complexity of his character. There’s much more than meets the eye here, which is why IWC’s Big Pilot’s Watch Perpetual Calendar Edition “Rodeo Drive” is another great choice. Price: AUD$45,900
Panerai Submersible BMG-TECH™
This is a serious tool watch that can’t help but remind you of Dustin in action on Grand Final day. The time for frivolity is over. There’s no room for anything other than laser focus on the task at hand. That’s what you’re getting with the Panerai Submersible, a rugged watch that is built to take care of business whatever the circumstances. Price: AUD$19,500
Piaget Polo
Finally, the Piaget Polo is another watch that also walks the tightrope between sporty and sophisticated, proving that you don’t have to choose between the two. The entire case and bracelet is expertly crafted with a blend of brushed and polished finishings, while the eye-catching blue dial has a richness to its tone. Perfect for some post-match celebrations. Price: AUD$18,300
To see more of Dustin wearing some very fine watches visit Kennedy right here.
Made in partnership with Kennedy. However, the opinions expressed in this article are our own in accordance with our Editorial Policy.