Tiger Woods In Pact With Tudor Watches

Golf sensation Tiger Woods has signed a contract with Rolex Watch USA Inc. to endorse a new line of luxury watches being introduced by its Tudor brand, Rolex said Tuesday.

Rolex is the latest prestige name to enter into an endorsement agreement with Woods, the youngest ever Masters champion. Terms were not disclosed, but a statement from Rolex said Woods would appear in television and print ads for Tudor slated to begin in July.

The Tudor watch, with a suggested price starting at about $2,000, basically fits the image that Tiger has an emerging classic, Jean-Noel Bioul, Rolexs executive vice president, sales and marketing, said in an interview. He loves the watch.

Bioul said Rolex has been a sponsor of the American Junior Golf Association, and weve followed him since he was a young golfer. Talks began with Woods image managers early this year and the golfer has been wearing a Tudor Chronograph since Jan. 20, Bioul said.

Woods, who finished in a tie for fourth in last weekends Colonial tournament in Fort Worth, Texas, also has endorsement deals with Nike Inc., Titleist golf products, Planet Hollywoods All Star Cafe and American Express.

Bioul said a specially designed, leather-strapped Tudor Chronograph with Woods name on the dials would be sold starting next month.

Rolex said its relationship with Woods will be the only one of its kind for the company.

When the American Express endorsement was announced May 19, Woods said he had established a brand plan and wanted to be sure his image is handled properly.

The 21-year-old golfer won this years Masters golf tournament with a record-breaking performance. He has won more than $2 million in prize money since turning professional last August.