When it comes to wrist candy, celebrities don’t settle for ordinary timepieces—they choose statement-making watches that blend style, heritage, and prestige. In 2025, a clear set of leaders has emerged: brands that dominate red carpets, social media, and luxury watch charts alike. This article takes a closer look at the top luxury watch brands celebrities are loving right now, highlights the must-watch models, and explains why these iconic names continue to shape trends and influence the watch world in 2025.
Why Celebrities Matter in the Watch World
There’s a reason you’ll see certain watches lighting up the wrists of A-listers and influencers. First, celebrity spotting raises a brand’s visibility and desirability—if a major star wears a watch, it helps that watch become culturally relevant. According to a 2025 ranking of watch brands by media impact value (MIV), we can see how visibility translates to brand strength.
Second, when a celebrity wears a watch, it often signals more than just “nice accessory” – it shows alignment with identity, status, style, or legacy. For example, the brand’s heritage or a limited-edition model can confer exclusivity and taste.
Third, watches aren’t just fashion pieces—they are objects of craftsmanship, investment, and in many cases, collectible art. This adds another layer: celebrities wearing watches aren’t just showing off—they’re signaling an understanding or appreciation of that world.
In short, when you see a celeb wearing a timepiece, it’s often intentional. And for watch brands, associating with celebrities is both a marketing and a cultural currency move.
The Leading Luxury Watch Brands of 2025
1. Rolex
When you think of luxury watches and celebrity wrists, Rolex stands at the top. In fact, in many recent brand rankings, it dominates. For example, the “Watch Brands Ranking 2025” lists the Speedmaster and Seamaster for Omega, but also underscores Rolex’s enduring relevance.
Celebrities like Pusha T were spotted wearing the ultra-rare Rolex Daytona “Rainbow” at the 2025 Met Gala, making a bold statement. The tennis great Roger Federer appeared at Wimbledon wearing the new Rolex Land-Dweller 40.
What makes Rolex a celebrity choice?
- Strong heritage: Rolex is one of the most recognized luxury watch brands in the world.
- Investment value: Many Rolex models hold or increase their value over time.
- Versatility: Whether formal dress or sport luxe, a Rolex works.
- Visibility: It sends a clear message of status, taste, and success.
Recommended model:
- Rolex Day‑Date 40 Everose Gold — A 40 mm case in 18k Everose gold, emblematic of high luxury, often worn by public figures who want to combine elegance with status.
- Rolex Datejust 41mm Stainless Steel — A more versatile model in stainless steel that still pairs high visibility with everyday wearability.
2. Patek Philippe
Patek Philippe sits at the higher echelons of watchmaking. According to ranking lists, it continues to dominate among coveted luxury brands in 2025.
For example, celebrities such as Jay‑Z have been linked to iconic Patek models, such as the Nautilus 5711 “Tiffany Blue” special edition. Why this matters: Patek is less about flashy marketing and more about horological tradition, fine finishing, and exclusivity. The fact that many models are produced in very limited numbers makes them desirable for collectors and stars alike.
What makes Patek a celebrity choice?
- Exclusivity: Waiting lists, limited production, high resale value.
- Heritage & craftsmanship: Swiss-made, with movements and finishing that matter to true watch lovers.
- Quiet luxury: While still high-priced, Patek often blends into elegant attire rather than screaming for attention.
- Cultural cachet: A watch you wear when you mean business.
Recommended model:
- Patek Philippe Nautilus 5711 Tiffany & Co. — A highly collectible, rare piece whose association with celebrity and premium materials makes it a brand icon.
- Patek Philippe Nautilus 5711 Blue Dial — The standard steel version, still highly desirable and with serious investment potential.
3. Audemars Piguet
Audemars Piguet ranked among the top watch brands in 2025, with a strong showing in media impact and celebrity visibility.
Celebs are embracing AP’s bold design languages—notice the 2025 red-carpet appearances. At the 2025 Met Gala, for instance, a turquoise-dial Royal Oak in yellow gold was spotted on rapper/singer Shaboozey.
What makes Audemars Piguet a celebrity choice?
- Distinctive design: The Royal Oak is instantly recognizable with its octagon bezel and integrated bracelet.
- Boldness: Celebrities who like to stand out often pick Audemars Piguet.
- Mixing tradition and modernity: Luxury watchmaking meets contemporary styles, appealing to music, sports, and film worlds.
Recommended model:
- Audemars Piguet Royal Oak 41 mm Yellow Gold — A 41mm yellow gold version, offering high presence and luxury appeal.
- (Alternative models include various finishes and complications, but this one captures the celebrity aesthetic.)
4. Richard Mille
Richard Mille has become an emblem of ultra-high luxury, tech-forward design, and celebrity wow-factor. In 2025, we saw new collabs and high-profile launches. For example, basketball legend LeBron James debuted his first collaboration with Richard Mille—the RM 65-01—marking a strong tie between the brand and sports-celebrity culture.
What makes Richard Mille a celebrity choice?
- Exclusivity + sport + art: Limited runs, exotic materials, skeletonized dials.
- High visibility: These watches often turn heads and attract media.
- Technical innovation: Often marketed as engineering marvels, not just luxury accessories.
Recommended model:
- Richard Mille Automatic Flyback Chronograph GMT — A high-end pick from Richard Mille, perfect for someone wanting a statement piece.
- (Note: prices are very elevated, and these watches are far more niche.)
5. Omega
Omega remains highly relevant among celebrities and watch enthusiasts. In 2025, rankings place this brand among the major players in the luxury watch market.
Notable appearances include actor Colman Domingo wearing an 18k Canopus gold Omega Speedmaster at the 97th Oscars. Also, Korean actress Han So‑hee has served as a global brand ambassador for Omega.
What makes Omega a celebrity choice?
- Heritage: Ties to space exploration (Moonwatch), diving (Seamaster).
- Beauty + accessibility: More “wearable” than ultra-luxury brands, but still premium.
- Versatility: Can be formal or sporty, making it popular across genres.
Recommended model:
- While my earlier product listing was off, a fit for this category would be something like the Speedmaster or Seamaster Aqua Terra. Consider exploring current Omega models for a “celebrity-inspired” pick.
How to choose the right celebrity-loved watch for you
Match Your Lifestyle
If you walk the red carpet often (or want to), go for bold designs like Richard Mille or Audemars Piguet. If you want a mix of daily wear plus luxury, brands like Rolex and Omega are more flexible. If you want quiet prestige and investment potential, Patek is a strong choice.
Consider Visibility vs Subtlety.
Do you want your watch to shout, “Look at me,” or make a refined statement? Bold gem-set watches (such as those seen on rappers or athletes) send one message; classically designed models (like many Patek) send another. For example, Pusha T’s Rolex Daytona Rainbow is a bold flex. On the other hand, a refined Nautilus or classic Omega may fly under the radar.
Think Long Term
Celebrities often choose models that will hold value, become icons, or be part of a legacy. If you are buying not just for style but also value retention, consider production numbers, brand reputation, and historical significance. Patek and Rolex often lead here.
Style Compatibility
Your watch should match your wrist size, attire, and personal style. A massive skeleton tourbillon might look out of place in a boardroom. On the other hand, a refined dress watch may look too understated for casual wear. Celeb choices reflect this: for instance, Hailey Bieber wore a mini Audemars Piguet with layered jewelry.
Budget and Access
Some of these watches are extremely expensive and may have waitlists. Celebrity influence can drive demand and price. But there are more accessible entry points for each brand (pre-owned, smaller models, less precious metals) if you want the vibe without the extreme spend.
Spotlight: 2025 Highlights & Trends From Celebs
- The 2025 Met Gala and Oscars are full of wristwatch moments that reflect trends. At the Met Gala, celebs like Pusha T, Shaboozey, and Dwyane Wade wore extremely high-visibility timepieces—Rolex Rainbow, Audemars Piguet Turquoise, Tiffany platinum wristwatches.
- At the Oscars 2025, actor Andrew Garfield wore the Omega De Ville Trésor, actor Jeff Goldblum wore the Vacheron Constantin Égérie Moon Phase, and Edward Norton wore a Vacheron Constantin 222 re-edition.
- Emerging trend: collaborations and special editions are more common. For example, the LeBron James x Richard Mille RM 65-01 launch in 2025.
- Another trend: sporty luxury watches are more accepted in formal settings. The concept of “wearing a watch solely for formal occasions” is changing.
- Also worth noting: some less “traditional” luxury brands or independent labels are gaining celebrity visibility, though not yet at the top tier. But for our purposes, we focused on those widely seen among A-list stars.
Real-World Buying Advice
If you are considering buying a celebrity-inspired watch, here are some practical pointers:
- Check authenticity and provenance. Especially in the secondary market, models linked to celebrities or limited editions may come with premium mark-ups.
- Consider servicing and maintenance. Luxury mechanical watches require service every few years; the costs can be significant, especially for high-complication models (like Richard Mille).
- Factor in comfort and size. Just because a celebrity wears a 44 mm watch doesn’t mean it will work on your wrist. Visit authorized dealers, try the watch on.
- Think long term and resale potential. Some models will hold value better than others.
- Choose one that you love—not just because a celeb wears it. Trends shift, but your personal style should endure.
Timeless Style and Personal Legacy in 2025
Luxury watches in 2025 are more than timekeepers; they are symbols of identity, success, taste, and legacy for celebrities, while inspiring, celebrating craftsmanship, and offering investment for collectors and enthusiasts. When choosing your own celebrity-inspired timepiece, consider what you want your watch to communicate, the lifestyle you lead or aspire to, the balance between visibility and subtlety that fits your personality, your budget and wrist size, and the brand’s heritage and value retention.
Whether you’re drawn to the refined prestige of Patek Philippe, the iconic presence of Rolex, the boldness of Audemars Piguet, or the avant-garde flair of Richard Mille, each brand tells a story intertwined with the stars who wear them. And when the red-carpet lights fade, these watches continue to tick—quietly carrying on the legacy and stories of timeless style.
