Dan Marino at Levinson Jewelers: "Watches Are Like Wine — It Depends on Individual Taste"

NFL Hall of Famer Dan Marino has been a brand ambassador for Fort Lauderdale's Levinson Jewelers for over 25 years. Premier Guide Miami sat down to find out what that means — and what comes next.

Levinson Jewelers, Fort Lauderdale's top jewelry store, recently hosted the Ultimate Watch Fair featuring special guest NFL Hall of Famer Dan Marino. The event showcased the newest timepieces and collections from Franck Muller, IWC, Piaget, Kunz, Panerai, and Bvlgari, among others. Premier Guide Miami's Daedrian McNaughton caught up with Marino on the floor — and learned that his money clip is a double elastic band from the broccoli section of the supermarket.

PGM: What is your association with Levinson Jewelers?

Dan Marino: I have worked with the Levinsons for over 25 years. My wife and I have done billboards, among other marketing ventures. Today we invited our important clients to introduce them to the season's collection and to get reacquainted with Levinson Jewelers.

PGM: Is your entire family involved?

Dan Marino: Yes. My family is involved, and my son is the DJ here today.

PGM: Which watch brand is your favorite?

Dan Marino: I could not say because I have a lot of different brands, including Franck Muller and Chanel. Today I am wearing Bvlgari.

PGM: What would you recommend for the summer season?

Dan Marino: The summer sensation — maybe something nice and casual. Watches are like wine, food, or anything else: it depends on an individual's taste. Two main things about watches are that people wear them every day, and they also buy them for special occasions.

PGM: What is your recommendation for someone just getting into watches?

Dan Marino: Buy mine. I will sell this one to them right now — the Bvlgari.

PGM: Signed, right?

Dan Marino: No. That would be too expensive.

PGM: How does it feel that no one has replaced you as the last great quarterback for the Dolphins?

Dan Marino: Thank you for that. I appreciate it. I love the Dolphins family. I would love for someone to be there who can take them to a Super Bowl and do all the great things. They now have Chad Henne, who has a chance to be good. I really think he has a chance as long as they keep the right people around him. It is all about talent and getting talent around you.

PGM: What initially piqued your interest in jewelry and watches?

Dan Marino: Women like diamonds, and so does my wife. I have known Mark and Robin Levinson for over 25 years and we have a strong friendship and business relationship. Mark taught me a lot about watches, and I am happy to represent their company.

PGM: How long do you intend to continue this Marino-Levinson relationship?

Dan Marino: Until they kick me out.

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