The world of luxury watches is vast but from our research for this article, you can clearly see a few watches are common among the stars. The watches that stand out are the Rolex Submariner, Cartier Tank and the Patek Philippe Nautilus.
From the Glam Rock era of the 1970s to his later years in the 2000s, David Bowie’s innovative style extended to the watches he chose to wear. During his decades-long career, Bowie donned a variety of luxury timepieces from brands like Rolex, Jaeger-LeCoultre and Audemars Piguet. His watches served as key accessories that complemented and enhanced his eclectic, ahead-of-his-time wardrobes.
The Rolex GMT Master
One of Bowie’s most iconic watches was the Rolex GMT Master. This uniquely styled Rolex watch featured a two-toned bezel in red and blue, giving it the nickname the “Pepsi” GMT. Bowie began wearing the Pepsi GMT regularly in the 1970s, perfectly matching the colourful, gender-bending aesthetic of his Ziggy Stardust and Aladdin Sane eras. The sporty yet upscale design of the GMT Master reflected Bowie’s musical transition from folk singer to Glam Rock superstar. Beyond complementing his wardrobe, the GMT Master also served a practical purpose for the increasingly global Bowie, allowing him to keep track of multiple time zones as he toured the world.
The Rolex Submariner
By 1983 and his mega-hit “Let’s Dance” album, Bowie had moved on from Glam Rock outrageousness to a more mainstream, mass-market sound. His watch similarly evolved to the Rolex Submariner, which he wore on the cover of “Let’s Dance.” This watch had a classic black dial and matching black bezel, giving it an understated, sophisticated look. The Submariner was the perfect accent for Bowie’s stylish, modern suits and reflected his status as not just a musical pioneer but also a fashion icon for a new era. With its timeless style, the Submariner projected timeless cool as Bowie continued to dominate the charts.
The Jaeger-LeCoultre Memovox
Bowie also appreciated watches not just for style but for their technical qualities and complications. One example was the Jaeger-LeCoultre Memovox he gifted to his wife Iman. The Memovox had an automatic alarm function, which would have appealed to Bowie’s love of gadgets. It also boasted a clean, minimal white dial with simple markers and hands, letting the alarm function be the star. Iman recalled receiving the Memovox as a wedding gift from Bowie in 1992 and wearing it throughout their marriage. For Bowie, the Memovox represented not only taste but also horological innovation.
Later Sporty and Luxury Models
As he matured as an artist, Bowie expanded his watch collection to include both sporty and luxury pieces. In the late 1990s and early 2000s, he often donned more modern sport watches like the Raymond Weil Freelancer. With its chronograph function and stainless steel integrated bracelet, the Freelancer had an athletic look that Bowie pulled off with aplomb. At other times, Bowie opted for sleek dress watches like the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak. The Royal Oak had an angular, octagonal stainless steel case and bracelet along with a patterned blue dial. Its contemporary shape exemplified Bowie’s continuous experimentation and pursuit of groundbreaking design in all aspects of his life.
Rare Vintage Pieces
In addition to wearing contemporary watches, Bowie was also a collector who appreciated vintage timepieces. One of his rarest and most valuable watches sold at auction after his death - a 1969 Rolex Chronograph affectionately known as the “Pre-Daytona.” This watch had a distinctive contrasting chronograph dial with black subdials over a white main dial. The clean 1960s styling along with Rolex’s precision watchmaking made it an incredible find for collectors. The Pre-Daytona, of which fewer than 2000 units were made, eventually sold for over $200,000(£160,000) at auction. For fans and watch enthusiasts, it represented the pinnacle of Bowie’s discernment and style.
A Reflection of His Ever-Changing Style
Throughout David Bowie’s cultural reign as the Glam Rock pioneer, pop hitmaker and fashion trailblazer, his watch choices reflected the exciting phases of his career. From sporty Rolex professional models to cutting-edge luxury designs, Bowie’s watches projected his creative spirit, innovation, individuality and worldwide success. They served as both fashion accessories and sentimental keepsakes, like the Memovox gifted to his beloved wife. Bowie understood that every detail mattered in crafting his otherworldly image and legacy. The watches he wore became as bold, ahead-of-their time and unforgettable as the man himself. For Bowie, even something as small as a watch could make a huge statement.
What watch does Elton John wear?
Known for his flashy on-stage costumes and iconic eyewear, Elton John has also accessorised his flamboyant style over the decades with an impressive collection of luxury watches. From sporty chronographs to diamond-decked designs, Elton's watches reflect the creativity and extravagance that define his public image.
The Rolex President
One of the most frequently spotted timepieces on Elton John's wrist is the Rolex Day-Date. Nicknamed the "President" after its popularity among world leaders, this prestigious Rolex watch has a distinctive fluted bezel and date display at 12 o'clock and day of the week at 3 o'clock. Elton owns the 36mm yellow gold President model, which he wears both for everyday and paired with his vibrant stage outfits. The gold Rolex projects luxury and complements Elton's sparkling wardrobe.
Cartier Tanks in All Colors
Elton John also has an extensive collection of Cartier Tank watches. The rectangular Tank is a Cartier signature, with its clean geometric lines inspired by WWI tanks. Elton owns the Tank in steel, rose gold, and yellow gold, allowing him to match any outfit or occasion. He frequently wears Tank models including the Tank Solo, Louis Cartier Tank, and Tank Francaise. The Cartier Tank's Art Deco design oeuvres with Elton's retro glamour.
Bulgari Octo for Modern Edge
For a more modern statement, Elton sports the Bulgari Octo watch. Its octagonal case and integrated bracelet give the Octo a bold, architectural look. Elton's Octo Finissimo model is extra sleek with a record-setting thin case. His Octo features a black dial dramatically contrasted with baguette-cut diamonds on the bezel. The edgy Italian luxury of Bulgari suits Elton's vibrant persona.
Chopard Happy Diamonds
Of course, no discussion of Elton John's watches is complete without mentioning Chopard Happy Diamonds. This Chopard collection features diamonds floating whimsically on the dial. On Elton's white gold Happy Diamonds watch, seven movable diamonds dazzle to complement his sparkling outfits. The free-spirited diamonds evoke the creativity and spirit of Elton's songwriting.
Sporty Panerai for the Jet Set
While he loves his blinged-out watches, Elton also sports sportier styles like his Panerai Luminor GMT. Panerai watches have large, pragmatic cases designed for Italian navy divers. Elton's Panerai has a 44mm black dial with luminous markers, date window and second time zone display - perfect for a rock star constantly crossing borders. The rubber strap provides comfort on the road.
Patek Philippe for Luxury Seekers
At the pinnacle of luxury watches sits Patek Philippe, an exclusive brand renowned for its craftsmanship. Elton owns a rose gold Patek Philippe Nautilus, the brand's iconic sports luxe watch. With a gleaming brown sunburst dial and integrated bracelet, the Nautilus is supremely stylish. Its sophisticated elegance matches Elton John's musical brilliance.
What watch does Ed Sheeran wear?
With his laidback attitude and knack for creating relatable everyman anthems, Ed Sheeran has become one of the most bankable pop stars on the planet. Though known for his down-to-earth nature, Sheeran can still pull off wearing luxurious wristwatches from top brands like Rolex, Patek Philippe and Audemars Piguet. Sheeran’s watch collection provides subtle hints of his mega-stardom while reflecting his casual, youthful style.
Rolex GMT Master II
Sheeran has an affinity for sporty Rolex watches, specifically the Rolex GMT Master II. This iconic aviation-inspired watch allows the wearer to track dual time zones, perfect for a jet-setting performer like Sheeran. His signature Rolex watch has a black and red “Coke” bezel insert along with a black dial. Sheeran always wears it on a simple Oyster bracelet rather than a flashy gold one. The classic, understated Rolex pairs seamlessly with Sheeran’s casual wardrobe of t-shirts, jeans and hoodies.
Patek Philippe Nautilus
At formal events, Sheeran sometimes opts for the elegant but contemporary Patek Philippe Nautilus. With a stainless steel case and bracelet, horizontal embossing on the dial and integrated lugs, the Nautilus has a sleek, high-tech look. Sheeran’s Nautilus has a smooth black dial that complements everything from bespoke suits to his everyday outfits. The Nautilus represents Sheeran’s more sophisticated side underneath his regular-guy persona.
Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore
Sheeran also wears modern sport watches like the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore Chronograph. This watch conveys luxury and performance with its intricate patterned dial, chronograph subdials, date window and engraved bezel screws. Sheeran chooses the 42mm version in stainless steel for everyday wearability. With its combination of polished and brushed finishes, the Offshore Chronograph provides an athletic luxury appeal fitting Sheeran’s musical brand.
Breitling Avenger Blackbird
When he wants a rugged, utilitarian timepiece, Sheeran sports the Breitling Avenger Blackbird. True to Breitling’s aviation heritage, the Avenger Blackbird has a black dial inspired by gauges in fighter plane cockpits. The 48mm case gives it bold wrist presence. With a leather strap and simple dial accents, Sheeran maintains the watch’s casual vibe.
Cartier Tank Solo
Sheeran added the Cartier Tank Solo to his collection for an elegant, minimalist choice. The Tank Solo features the iconic rectangular case of Cartier Tanks but in a modern, scaled-down proportion. Sheeran wears the Tank Solo in stainless steel which allows it to pair effortlessly with his casual attire. With its black alligator strap and thin profile, the Cartier Tank provides a refined counterbalance to Sheeran’s laidback public persona.
What watch does Paul McCartney wear?
As one of the most famous musicians in history, Paul McCartney has amassed an impressive collection of luxury watches over his decades-long career. His watch choices reflect both his stylish sensibilities as well as his appreciation for horological craftsmanship. From sporty steel classics to high-end complications, the watches often spotted on McCartney’s wrist showcase his sophisticated tastes.
Rolex Submariner
One of McCartney’s most frequently worn watch models is the Rolex Submariner. This iconic diving watch exemplifies rugged durability and timeless cool. McCartney owns several versions of the Submariner including stainless steel models with blue, black and green dials and matching ceramic bezels. The Submariner’s straightforward stainless steel case and bracelet effortlessly match McCartney’s casual attire. The watch’s water resistance makes it a practical choice for the sports enthusiast and former Beatle.
Patek Philippe Nautilus
In recent years, McCartney has also been photographed wearing the Patek Philippe Nautilus, a highly coveted luxury sports watch. With its distinct porthole case shape, integrated bracelet and horizontal relief dial, the Nautilus has an unmistakable nautical-inspired design. McCartney owns at least one stainless steel Nautilus model with a deep blue dial. The watch’s exclusivity and prestige align with McCartney’s stature in the music industry.
Cartier Tank
Another elegant watch in McCartney’s collection is the Cartier Tank. With its linear Art Deco appeal, the Tank is an iconic rectangular watch. McCartney alternates between Cartier Tanks such as the Solo, Louis Cartier and Francaise models in steel and gold. The Cartier Tank’s Parisian sophistication meshes seamlessly with McCartney’s reputation as a fashion trendsetter and world traveller.
Omega Speedmaster
Given McCartney’s passion for motorsports like driving and auto racing, a sporty chronograph like the Omega Speedmaster suits his active lifestyle. His Speedmaster Professional features a black dial with 30-minute and 12-hour subdials along with a tachymeter scale on the stainless steel bezel. The manual-winding mechanical calibre powering the Speedmaster has precision timing credentials.
Rado Diastar
An offbeat watch spotted on McCartney is the Rado Diastar. The mirrored dial of the Diastar gives it a visually striking, disco-era aesthetic. The futuristic appearance of the Swiss quartz Rado watch aligns with McCartney’s avant-garde sensibilities. While an unconventional choice, the Diastar shows McCartney’s playful watch style.
What watch does Ryan Reynolds wear?
Canadian actor Ryan Reynolds is well known for his sharp sense of humour and his action-hero roles in movies like "Deadpool" and "6 Underground." Off-screen, Reynolds displays an affinity for horology by regularly wearing watches from brands ranging from affordable to luxurious. His collection provides insight into both his laidback personality and his Hollywood success.
Timex Expedition Scout
Despite his A-list status, Reynolds doesn’t just wear expensive watches. He’s been spotted wearing the Timex Expedition Scout, a rugged yet affordable outdoor watch. The Scout has a 40mm brass case, durable canvas strap, and simple dial with luminescent hands. Reynolds wears it as an everyday watch that can handle activities with his family. The Timex shows Reynolds avoids pretention in favor of practicality.
Omega Seamaster Diver 300M
While filming “Deadpool,” Reynolds sported an Omega Seamaster Diver 300M with a stainless steel case and bracelet. He selected the 41mm model with a black ceramic unidirectional bezel and wave pattern dial. The Seamaster 300M’s professional diving credentials match his character’s action sequences. Off screen, this Omega remains one of Reynolds’ go-to sporty luxury watches.
Rolex Explorer II
A classic and versatile Rolex, Reynolds owns a stainless steel Explorer II with a black dial and orange 24-hour hand. Designed for speleologists exploring deep caverns, the Explorer II is tough and highly legible. His rugged Rolex watch complements Reynolds’ laidback style of t-shirts and bomber jackets. The iconic watch is also a nod to his longstanding leading man status.
Piaget Altiplano Ultimate Concept
At ultra-formal events, Reynolds breaks out the Piaget Altiplano Ultimate Concept - an extremely thin watch holding the world record at just 2mm thick. With its polished blue dial and sleek profile, the Altiplano seamlessly slips under a shirt cuff. The Piaget exemplifies Reynolds’ appreciation for subtle elegance and technical watchmaking marvels.
Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore
Reynolds brings out his sporty side with the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore Chronograph. A modern interpretation of Audemars' classic Royal Oak, this 42mm stainless steel Offshore has a striking blue “Mecca” dial inspired by tiles at a 13th-century mosque. The sophisticated chronograph demonstrates Reynolds’ taste for watches that are simultaneously rugged and refined.
What watch does Elon Musk wear?
Elon Musk is known for spearheading cutting-edge companies like Tesla and SpaceX. But when it comes to watches, he often sticks to simple, iconic models that emphasize utility over flash. Despite his vast wealth, Musk's watch collection reveals an appreciation of classic, versatile timepieces.
Rolex Submariner
Musk’s most frequently spotted watch is the Rolex Submariner. This diver’s watch established the blueprint for many modern sports watches with its robust water resistance, 40mm stainless steel case, legible black dial and unidirectional bezel. Musk owns the classic black Submariner 116610LN model on a matching Oyster bracelet. The Rolex Submariner reflects Musk’s penchant for elegantly functional and reliable watches.
Omega Speedmaster
Another sports watch in Musk’s collection is the Omega Speedmaster Professional, also known as the Moonwatch. Originally designed for race car drivers, the Speedmaster went on to become the first watch worn on the moon during the Apollo space missions. Musk’s Moonwatch has a 42mm stainless steel case, trio of chronograph sub-dials, and black tachymeter bezel. The legendary timepiece nods to Musk’s pioneering work in the space industry.
Panerai Luminor Marina 1950
In keeping with his buttoned-up personal style, Musk also owns a Panerai Luminor Marina 1950 with a simple black dial and brown leather strap. Panerai watches were originally made for the Italian navy, emphasizing form following function. At 44mm wide, the Luminor Marina 1950 makes a bold statement while still retaining a military-esque simplicity that aligns with Musk’s straightforward approach to watches.
TAG Heuer Carrera Calibre 1887
Musk has been photographed wearing TAG Heuer watches ranging from the Aquaracer to Monaco chronograph. His TAG Heuer Carrera Calibre 1887 combines the brand's motor racing heritage with an in-house manufactured movement. The Carrera features a striking industrial design with an exposed dial that showcases its mechanical automatic column wheel chronograph calibre.
IWC Schaffhausen Pilot’s Watch
Known for their cockpit-style pilot's watches, IWC is another brand appreciated by the tech entrepreneur. Musk owns several models including the IWC Pilot’s Watch Chronograph Top Gun Miramar. With a military-inspired olive green fabric strap and scratch-resistant black ceramic case, this rugged chrono exudes an aviation feel.
