The Met Gala, an annual extravaganza of fashion and glamour, has become a platform for celebrities to showcase their unique style and, in some cases, their love for timepieces. From the classic elegance of Roger Federer's Rolex to the avant-garde choices of Kid Cudi, the watches on display at the Met Gala offer a fascinating insight into the intersection of luxury and self-expression. In this article, I'll be taking a closer look at some of the most memorable watches from the Met Gala, exploring the stories behind them and the impact they've had on the world of horology.
One of the most iconic watches to grace the Met Gala stage is the Rolex Oyster Perpetual 1908, worn by tennis legend Roger Federer in 2023. This elegant all-black dress watch, unveiled at Watches & Wonders the month before, embodies the timeless appeal of Rolex and the understated sophistication that Federer is known for. What makes this watch particularly fascinating is its historical significance. The Oyster Perpetual, introduced in 1908, was one of the first waterproof wristwatches, revolutionizing the way people interacted with time. Federer's choice of this watch not only showcases his appreciation for horological heritage but also highlights the enduring appeal of classic designs in a fast-paced world.
Another standout watch from the Met Gala is the Chopard Alpine Eagle, worn by Chris Hemsworth in 2024. This 41mm case timepiece, crafted from 18-carat rose gold and adorned with a diamond-embellished bezel, exudes luxury and sophistication. What makes this watch particularly intriguing is its fusion of contemporary design and traditional craftsmanship. The Alpine Eagle collection, inspired by the majestic eagle, features bold and angular shapes that pay homage to the brand's Swiss heritage. Hemsworth's choice of this watch not only reflects his personal style but also underscores the growing popularity of sports watches in the luxury market.
Pharrell Williams, the renowned musician and fashion icon, made a bold statement at the 2021 Met Gala with the Richard Mille RM 17-01 Tourbillion. This red gold timepiece, featuring baguette-cut diamonds set into the bezel, showcases Williams' penchant for avant-garde style and his willingness to push the boundaries of traditional horology. What makes this watch particularly fascinating is its technical prowess. The RM 17-01 Tourbillion is a complex mechanical masterpiece, featuring a tourbillon, a device that compensates for the effects of gravity on the movement, and a unique design that sets it apart from other luxury watches. Williams' choice of this watch not only reflects his status as a trendsetter but also highlights the growing demand for high-complication timepieces among the fashion elite.
One of the most unique watches to grace the Met Gala stage is the custom BAPE x Casio G-Shock DW-6900, worn by Kid Cudi in 2021. This one-of-a-kind timepiece, designed in collaboration with the streetwear brand BAPE, showcases Cudi's love for street culture and his willingness to experiment with unconventional designs. What makes this watch particularly interesting is its fusion of high-end fashion and affordable technology. The G-Shock DW-6900, known for its durability and reliability, is a staple in the world of sports and streetwear. Cudi's choice of this watch not only reflects his personal style but also highlights the growing trend of collaborations between luxury brands and streetwear labels.
Henry Golding, who attended the 2025 Met Gala, brought out a release from the Cartier Privé collection: the Tank à Guichets in yellow gold with a minimalist jump hour design. This timepiece, with its sleek and minimalist aesthetic, embodies the essence of Cartier's heritage and craftsmanship. What makes this watch particularly intriguing is its innovative design. The Tank à Guichets features a unique jump hour mechanism, which displays the hours by jumping to the correct position on the dial, rather than rotating continuously. Golding's choice of this watch not only showcases his appreciation for horological innovation but also highlights the enduring appeal of classic designs in a world that is constantly evolving.
Michael B. Jordan, the Oscar-winning actor, made a subtle yet elegant statement at the 2019 Met Gala with the Piaget Altiplano. This white gold timepiece, with its simple yet sophisticated design, perfectly complemented Jordan's sequin Coach suit. What makes this watch particularly fascinating is its timeless appeal. The Altiplano, introduced in 1950, has become an iconic symbol of Piaget's heritage and craftsmanship. Jordan's choice of this watch not only reflects his personal style but also highlights the enduring appeal of classic designs in a world that is constantly evolving.
Connor Storrie, the breakout star of Heated Rivalry, made a bold statement at the 2026 Met Gala with the Omega Constellation Observatory in moonshine gold. This exclusive timepiece, with its striking design and innovative materials, exudes luxury and sophistication. What makes this watch particularly interesting is its use of moonshine gold, a unique alloy that combines the warmth and radiance of gold with the durability and resistance to tarnishing of platinum. Storrie's choice of this watch not only reflects his personal style but also highlights the growing demand for timepieces that combine innovative materials with traditional craftsmanship.
Oscar Isaac, who made his Met Gala debut in 2022, chose the Thom Browne suit styled and flattened to look like a dress, and completed his quietly subversive androgynous look with a small 18-carat yellow gold Cartier Tank Française. This timepiece, with its delicate and feminine design, embodies the essence of Cartier's heritage and craftsmanship. What makes this watch particularly fascinating is its historical significance. The Tank Française, introduced in 1917, has become an iconic symbol of Cartier's heritage and has been worn by countless celebrities and royalty over the years. Isaac's choice of this watch not only reflects his personal style but also highlights the enduring appeal of classic designs in a world that is constantly evolving.
In conclusion, the watches on display at the Met Gala offer a fascinating insight into the intersection of luxury and self-expression. From the classic elegance of Roger Federer's Rolex to the avant-garde choices of Kid Cudi, these timepieces showcase the diverse range of styles and personalities that make up the fashion elite. As the Met Gala continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how the world of horology continues to intersect with the world of fashion, and how celebrities continue to use their love for timepieces to make bold statements and express their unique identities.
