Arguably the most iconic celebrity timepiece of all time, the Rolex Daytona “Paul Newman” has reached mythical status among collectors. Newman, an actor and racecar driver, was gifted the watch by his wife Joanne Woodward in the late 1960s.
With its distinctive Art Deco-style dial, the watch was once an overlooked variation — until it became synonymous with Newman’s image and passion for motorsports.
In 2017, his personal Daytona sold at auction for a staggering £17.8 million, making it one of the most expensive watches ever sold. The story of the “Paul Newman” Daytona is a perfect example of how celebrity provenance can transform a beautiful object into a priceless artifact.
Jay-Z’s Richard Mille: Innovation Meets Influence
When it comes to modern watch flexing, few do it better than Jay-Z. A known collector of fine watches, the rapper and mogul has been seen wearing a Richard Mille RM 056, a transparent tourbillon crafted from sapphire crystal. With a price tag north of $2 million, the RM 056 exemplifies Richard Mille’s reputation for pushing the limits of watchmaking innovation.
Jay-Z’s choice reflects his affinity for bold, futuristic design and cutting-edge engineering. It also underscores how Richard Mille watches have become the go-to choice for influential figures looking to make an uncompromising statement of wealth and tech-savvy sophistication.
Rihanna’s Chopard and Jacob & Co: Feminine Power, Redefined
Fashion icon and music superstar Rihanna has long been associated with high jewelry and exceptional timepieces. At public events and galas, she often opts for Chopard watches, known for their luxurious materials and elegant aesthetics. More recently, she was spotted wearing a blinged-out Jacob & Co. Brilliant Skeleton Northern Lights, a diamond-studded piece that perfectly complements her fearless fashion sense.
Her choices echo a broader trend of women embracing bold luxury watches — a territory once dominated by men — and making them part of their signature style.
Cristiano Ronaldo’s Jacob & Co Billionaire: When Excess is the Point
Football legend Cristiano Ronaldo is no stranger to luxury, and his taste in watches mirrors his lavish lifestyle. He has been seen wearing the Jacob & Co. Billionaire III, a watch entirely encrusted with emerald-cut diamonds. With an estimated value of $1.5 million, it is less about subtlety and more about maximum impact.
Ronaldo’s horological choices reflect his global brand and persona — unapologetically opulent and constantly in the spotlight. It’s the kind of watch that defines extravagance and ambition in the celebrity sphere.
Timothée Chalamet’s Cartier Tank: Quiet Sophistication
On the opposite end of the spectrum is actor Timothée Chalamet, who has become known for his understated and vintage-inspired fashion. He often wears the classic Cartier Tank Louis, a rectangular-shaped watch originally introduced in 1917.
The Tank’s minimalist design, favored by greats like Muhammad Ali and Jackie Kennedy, is a perfect match for Chalamet’s elegant aesthetic. It proves that in a world obsessed with bigger and flashier, sometimes simplicity is the ultimate sophistication.
The Growing Allure of Owning a Piece of the Glamour
Celebrity watch culture doesn’t just influence trends — it stirs desire. When fans see their favorite stars wearing a specific brand or model, it can spark a deeper appreciation for horology and elevate demand. For many watch lovers, owning a piece even remotely similar to what these icons wear feels like an entry into an elite circle.
It’s no surprise that win a watch giveaways and luxury timepiece raffles have surged in popularity. They offer enthusiasts the chance to own something extraordinary — perhaps even the same model worn by their idol — without having to spend six or seven figures. It’s a modern-day dream with just enough realism to make it worth chasing.
Final Thoughts
From Paul Newman’s Rolex to Jay-Z’s Richard Mille, the relationship between celebrity and watch culture runs deep. These timepieces are more than accessories — they are extensions of personality, testaments to legacy, and sometimes, even investments.
Whether you’re an aspiring collector or simply admire the craftsmanship from afar, there’s no denying the magnetic pull of a celebrity-endorsed timepiece. They tell stories — of taste, status, rebellion, and refinement — in ways that words alone never could.
