What are you expecting out of this partnership, and what do you think your fans will think of you being tied to such a luxury brand?
First off, I think it’s important that we both bring a lot of ideas to the table. Together, I think we can create something that is unique. It works well for both sides.
I think my fans will ask where this came from, and how did this happen? As they look closer, they will see that Audemars Piguet covers so much, in sports, in entertainment, in luxury, really a lot for a watch company. So I think my fans will understand exactly why this partnership has been created.
Why AP? What really stood out for you with the brand?
I was introduced to AP by my “big brother”, Jay-Z. He is of course another brand ambassador, and whenever I saw him wearing the watches, I always thought they were cool. I always asked him to tell me more about them. I asked him where he got them, and when I asked how I could get one, he lead me to him (points at Francois). That’s where it all started. Over the years since then, I started to read more about the watches, how they’re made, the history and prestige of the brand, and I guess I was just in the right place at the right time. It’s worked out well.
Brands usually discuss what ambassadors do for them. What does your association with AP do for you, and for your brand?
I think the number one goal is what can we create for kids. Once we figure out what watch will be made, then the proceeds will go to charities for children. I work a lot with the Boys and Girls Clubs of America, and that was the main goal for me in this relationship. Kids have to benefit from what we’re doing. That is the main thing we’re after, to see children benefit not only here in America but all over the world.
How did your interest in watches evolve?
My interest in watches goes back to when I was a kid. Of course, I couldn’t afford an AP watch as a kid, but I always wanted to wear a watch. It completes the outfit. You put on gym shorts, a sweatsuit, or any kind of dress, and the watch is the final piece. I always said if I ever became financially stable, I wanted nice cars and nice watches. I have both now (laughs).
Are you planning on having any say in the design of the watch?
I do a lot with Nike, Coca-Cola, and I have a say. In this case, we have a true partnership. It’s not an endorsement. So yes, I intend to have input in the design.
FRANCOIS:
If I may, obviously we will work together on this. And we don’t ever want to upset him, because even with Philippe on my shoulders, we still are no match for LeBron (laughs).
Is there anything specific that you would like to see on the watch?
I haven’t thought about that. I’ve seen the T3, the Shaq, and I like all of the details they put in to make it their watch. So once we get to that point, I’ll have a lot more ideas, as I’m sure they will. We won’t get too crazy. It’s got to be a great looking piece, and one that you look at and see AP first.
Which AP do you wear generally?
My favorite right now is the Legacy. I don’t wear it everyday. I usually wear an Offshore everyday, but I especially love the Legacy. That, and the Grand Prix.
FRANCOIS:
One of the fun things here is that LeBron doesn’t have such a big wrist, and when we did photos, he wore a lot of the collection, and the more classic pieces looked as good as anything. Down the road, we will likely work with him beyond the Offshore collection, because he wears them well.
I wish I had a question, but I can only say you chose well.
PHILIPPE:
Both sides, I hope.
Absolutely. It’s clear you chose well, and the public will really appreciate your winning partnership.
Thank you.
My father told me I had to ask, who will you be playing in the NBA Finals
I don’t even know who we’re playing in the first round yet! So many great teams. You cannot count out the Lakers. Mavericks. Oklahoma City. San Antonio. There are so many great teams. Our goal is not only to get there, but to win it.
If you had an extra hour in the day, how would you spend it?
I would give 30 minutes more to my kids, and 30 minutes more working on improving my game. Honing my skills. I love being a father to my two boys, and I love basketball. I guess I would give 30 minutes to my kids and then take them with me to the gym (laughs).
FRANCOIS:
That is truly why we have gotten on so well from day one. LeBron is a family man. AP is a family owned company. We connect there, and that’s why it’s working so well.
Thank you so much for taking the time to speak with us
Thank you all.
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