In the realm of contemporary watch collecting, Tom Brady has long held the crown, but it seems that Brad Pitt is poised to ascend the throne of vintage watches. At the recent premiere of “One Love,” a Bob Marley-themed film produced by Pitt’s company, Plan B, the American actor and producer sported a Patek Philippe reference 2526, making waves in the world of watch enthusiasts. This choice diverges from the current trend of the Nautilus, presenting a vintage gem from the 1950s – a time-only dress watch featuring an automatic movement and a captivating enamel dial.
The Patek Philippe reference 2526 has earned favor among watch aficionados for its elegant design and historical significance. Produced in the 1950s, this model came in various dial variants, with the enamel versions by Stern Frères, a company connected to Patek since the 1930s, being particularly cherished. According to John Reardon, an authority on Patek collecting, only 3,000 reference 2526s were made between 1953 and 1960 across all case metals, and a mere 600 have surfaced to date. Due to their fragility, not many have survived in pristine condition.
The 2526 stands out with its delicate craftsmanship and marks a significant milestone as Patek’s first automatic movement. The enchanting enamel dial and the automatic calibre 12-600AT contribute to the watch’s allure, making it a coveted piece among collectors. While a 31mm Calatrava reference 96 might command around $10,000 today, a larger 36mm 2526 with an enamel dial can fetch $60,000 or more, and even more if it has a double signature or a connection to a notable figure like Andy Warhol.
Brad Pitt’s choice of the Patek Philippe 2526 on a distinctive bracelet sparked a frenzy among experts, with speculations on its origin and authenticity. This marks the second instance of Pitt embracing a notable timepiece, the first being a stainless steel version of the Vacheron Constantin 222. The actor’s affinity for deep-cut “watch guy” choices has piqued the interest of horology enthusiasts, prompting discussions and speculations across the community.
In the world of sports and entertainment, former footballer Zlatan Ibrahimovic showcased his watch prowess by donning a Rolex Cosmograph Daytona ref. 116519LN at The 2024 Italian Song Festival. This white-gold variant with a meteorite dial adds a touch of luxury to Ibrahimovic’s black-tie ensemble. While Rolex has since updated this reference, the 116519LN can still be found on the secondary market for around $100,000.
Actor Jeffrey Wright made a stylish appearance on Seth Meyers, showcasing an Omega Seamaster Diver 300 in black with a matching black wave dial and a black rubber strap. This modern variant, measuring 43.5mm in ceramic and Grade 5 titanium, pays homage to the classic dive watch worn by Brosnan-era James Bond. Wright’s monochromatic ensemble complemented the stealthy and high-tech aesthetic of the Omega timepiece.
SNL’s Colin Jost opted for a surprising choice – a Gucci Grip – during a recent appearance on the show. This sub-$1,000 fashion watch with a distinctive “digital” display and a quartz movement stood out against the backdrop of high-end timepieces. Jost’s unconventional choice added a touch of casual flair to his ensemble, proving that style can be achieved at any price point.
Continuing his partnership with Cartier, Timothée Chalamet adorned his wrist with a Mini Panthère de Cartier at the photocall for “Dune: Part II” in Mexico City. Measuring 25mm in stainless steel, the Panthère, traditionally part of Cartier’s ladies’ watch collections, has become a unisex favorite among fashion-forward men. Chalamet’s choice of the Panthère exemplifies the enduring appeal of Cartier’s classic and well-balanced designs.
In this captivating world where timepieces are more than just accessories, these celebrities are making their mark as discerning watch enthusiasts, each contributing to the ever-evolving narrative of horological passion. As vintage and contemporary watches share the spotlight, the stories behind these timepieces continue to capture the imagination of enthusiasts around the globe.
