One of the most subtle trends to pop up is that of the timepiece. Watches have become the must-have accessory of the moment, and it’s not just the everyday person who loves a good watch, celebrities are also getting in on the action. Recently, we’ve seen how celebrities like Chris Tucker and Ryan Gosling have used watches to bring together their look in a cohesive and statement manner. While there are plenty of accessories to choose from, watches is the most practical and customizable option.
Recommended Videos
Because there are so many options, it’s easy to get lost in the world of watches. Thankfully, there are plenty of celebrity watch trends to choose from to make that decision easier. If you’re looking to expand or start your watch collection, these celebrity trends can help you decipher what you want in your next timepiece.
Alex Carollo/Pexels / Pexels
Time and art pieces
When you think of watches, you likely have a classic design in mind. Perhaps the watch has a square or round face with a traditional leather strap. However, nowadays, celebrities use their watches to create works of art on their wrists. You are no longer confined to the traditional style of a watch and can gravitate to less conventional pieces. Whether it’s a watch hidden in a cuff or inside a ring, you can distort the look of a watch in many ways. Don’t play it safe with your next timepiece purchase, and opt for a one-of-a-kind statement piece you can’t find everywhere.
In another effort to make their accessory stand out, many celebrities are also turning to the transparent watch to create an eventful look. Stars like Maluma have sported transparent watches that raise the curtain on the inner workings of a clock. While it’s a modern take on the watch, lifting the veil on the mechanics of a watch for them to be on full display.
As Edouard Caumon from Watchfinder US points out, “We are seeing that watch fans with a distinct appreciation for meticulous craftsmanship, who would like to bring a touch of bold individuality to their timepieces, are asking more and more about transparent watch options.”
2023 was the year of trends like quiet luxury and stealth wealth. These two fashion trends are about understated and lowkey designs that exude elegance and style. Not only do celebrities understand glamour, but they also know how to do understated. For that reason, celebrities are opting for subdued designs that don’t attract much attention. While some prefer a statement piece, a sleek timepiece will also last you plenty of seasons to come and have a timeless aspect. If you’re looking to mimic this celebrity trend, it’s the perfect excuse to indulge yourself in a higher-priced sleek watch that may cost you more now but will be on-trend for longer.
It’s no secret the younger generations are open to the idea of genderless and fluid designs. Without the need for the label men’s or women’s, these celebrities and shoppers are expanding the pool available to them. With more celebrities opting for gender-neutral designs, it makes it more clear that fashion is headed toward the unisex route. Celebrities like Timothee Chalamet frequently break down barriers and labels on the red carpet, and watches played a key part in that movement. With more male celebrities incorporating designs typically found in woman-marketed designs, it’s expanding the choices for everyone.
While some celebrities prefer understated, some love a little something extra. One trend starting to make waves among celebrities is the addition of bright and bold colors on the dials and straps. Gone are the days when you would only see celebrities wear black or silver watches as they’re opening up to more colors for their timepieces. One shining example comes from Ryan Gosling, who, while promoting “Barbie,” sported a hot pink dial, a choice that fits in with the moment and event. For those unafraid of stepping out of the norm, you don’t need to settle for your traditional colors, as bold hues like Barbie pink are the way forward.
Just as with color, stainless steel is also seeing its time as the go-to watch material cut short. While this classic material will always be a popular option, other watch materials provide texture and dimension to the design. Jack Stephens from Watchfinder UK notes, “Exotic materials are becoming cheaper largely attributed to machinery being more accessible, meaning brands at lower price points can see the value in offering watches in diverse configurations.” As these materials lower in price, expect to see them become more of an everyday item in your wardrobe.
Just as any fashion trend goes, there’s a cycle that sees it coming back years later. Nowadays, the 1980s are the latest era to make its comeback, and along with them are vintage watches. More geometric and retro designs are popping up among celebrities as they are becoming less old and more vintage. This distinction not only helps bring back this nostalgic era but also sets these timepieces apart from modern designs that run the risk of looking the same.
Since stainless steel is taking a backseat in the trends, it’s time for another popular material to shine again. Gold watches are often set aside as being too flashy or over-the-top, however, celebrities like Usher are making them a trend again. Gold watches might be the one accessory that allows you to make your outfit shine without altering your wardrobe. Sticking with the nostalgic theme, gold watches give a bit of the Y2K influence into your wardrobe without becoming too gimmicky.
Even though celebrities are exposed to various luxury and high-end watches, they’re also embracing affordable pieces that still have high quality. Eduoard Caumon from Watchmaker US highlights, “Clients are more cautious when considering watches as investments. Forget multi-generational inheritance – resale value is key. They seek stability and brands with proven track records, and they expect a premium price upfront but not a steep drop in value afterward.” Accessories like watches are a smart investment, and even celebrities are cashing in on the practicality and resale of watches, making them a hot commodity.
Frederique Constant unveils new Healey limited editions in pale blue
Racing heritage: Frederique constant's healey collaboration shifts to pale blue inspiration
Frederique Constant has extended its partnership with British carmaker Healey, marking two decades of collaboration. This year, two new limited editions have been introduced, departing from the traditional British Racing Green. Instead, they feature pale blue dials inspired by early 1960s Austin-Healey 3000 MKII models. Priced at €1,695 and €3,395, these timepieces continue an unusual collaboration that began in 2004.
At the heart of the partnership is a single historic vehicle: the ex-Works 1953–55 Austin-Healey 100S Special Test Car, registration NOJ393. This car competed in the World Sports Car Championship and was sold unrestored at Bonhams in 2011 for £843,000 ($1,000,000). Since then, it has been restored to its 1955 Le Mans specification.
Unlike typical automotive collaborations that focus on brand logos and color matching, Frederique Constant’s approach is different. The brand aims to capture the essence of this specific car and also supports Healey classic car rallies and community programs. Over 20 years, the partnership has produced many timepieces, most featuring the 100S’s distinctive green livery.
This year’s editions take a new aesthetic direction. The pale blue sunray dials with metallic coloring are inspired by the early 1960s Austin-Healey 3000 MKII, moving away from the traditional green to reflect the broader Austin-Healey palette while maintaining a connection to racing heritage.
The three-handed automatic variant features a curvaceous 36mm polished steel case, incorporating both Frederique Constant and Healey dial elements. Applied hour markers, including an oversized 12, are hand-polished silver with white luminous material. The bright red central seconds hand adds a sporty, dashboard-inspired touch, while the dark blue minute track flange matches the co-signing.
The chronograph edition measures 41mm and has a polished steel case with a two-counter layout. Bright red accents appear on both the central chronograph hand and the 30-minute subdial, which sits opposite the small seconds display. This color coordination visually connects to automotive instrumentation while maintaining horological function.
Both models are paired with blue leather straps and closed case backs engraved with the historic 100S. Each is limited to 1,888 pieces, emphasizing the partnership’s exclusivity while still offering reasonable availability for enthusiasts.
The automatic model costs €1,695, making it an accessible entry point into the collaboration. The chronograph is priced at €3,395, targeting collectors seeking additional complications. These price points are competitive with similar Swiss offerings and provide a sense of automotive provenance.
Frederique Constant has also reintroduced the 40mm 2023 Classics Vintage Rally Healey Automatic, featuring a steel case and British Racing Green dial. This model becomes a core collection piece, losing its limited edition status to broaden accessibility.
This partnership demonstrates how authentic collaborations can move beyond typical co-branding, emphasizing genuine community engagement and respect for automotive heritage. The result is a series of distinctive timepieces that appeal to both watch and car enthusiasts
Citizen celebrates 40 years of underwater innovation with the Promaster Aqualand 40th Anniversary Limited Edition, a tribute to the 1985 model that introduced electronic depth meters to professional diving. This $595 limited edition retains the iconic design elements of the original while incorporating modern materials and a commitment to environmental responsibility.
The first Aqualand was a breakthrough in 1985, being the world’s first diver’s watch with an electronic depth meter. This innovation transformed professional diving by providing real-time depth data alongside standard timekeeping functions, setting a new standard for underwater instruments.
The anniversary edition closely mirrors the distinctive look that made the original famous. The crown is positioned at 4 o’clock, three push buttons are thoughtfully placed, and the round depth sensor at 9 o’clock echoes the original’s signature feature. The updated model uses a gray, brushed stainless steel case with gold accents, lending a celebratory feel for the 40th anniversary.
Technically, the new Aqualand maintains the pioneering spirit of its predecessor. The digital display shows time, calendar, alarm, and chronograph functions, and in dive mode, it measures depth and dive time. The ascent rate alarm warns divers if they ascend too quickly, enhancing safety during decompression.
The BENEBiOL™ polyurethane strap is made from plant-based materials, offering durability in water while reducing environmental impact. This eco-friendly approach underscores Citizen’s commitment to responsible manufacturing without sacrificing performance in marine environments.
Powered by the Cal.C520 movement, the watch operates within ±20 seconds per month and supports full digital functionality. The watch meets ISO standards for 200-meter water resistance, making it suitable for professional diving. It features luminous hands and markers, a unidirectional rotating bezel, a screw-down crown, and a 1/100-second chronograph with a 100-minute counter for precise underwater timing.
The case back features a special design inspired by the original sensor, adding a unique touch exclusive to this anniversary edition. Limited to 5,800 pieces and launching in July 2025, the watch is aimed at both diving professionals and collectors who appreciate technical innovation in timepieces.
At $595, the Aqualand 40th Anniversary Edition offers a chance to celebrate the history of electronic diving watches while delivering modern performance, proving that thoughtful evolution keeps classic technologies relevant and reliable. Find out more at www.citizenwatch.com.
Noah and Timex release lighthouse watch following sun and moon success
Long island heritage: Noah's timex lighthouse watch honors golden ellipse legacy
Noah continues its watch partnership with Timex through the Lighthouse Watch, following last summer’s sold-out Sun & Moon Watch. That earlier collaboration became one of 2024’s most popular affordable timepieces. This new $228 release draws inspiration from Long Island history and pays homage to an iconic watch design.
The Lighthouse Watch reflects Noah designer Brendon Babenzien’s connection to his Long Island roots, specifically the Fire Island Lighthouse near his childhood home. Babenzien explains that the lighthouse was always in the background of his life, making it a meaningful motif for this watch.
Design-wise, the watch is a clear nod to the Patek Philippe Golden Ellipse, with a softly rounded, gold-plated stainless steel case measuring 31 x 35mm. This silhouette, paired with a croco-pattern leather strap, evokes the elegant, curvy shapes of the 1970s while remaining accessible thanks to Timex’s manufacturing. The minimalist white dial features a charcoal illustration of a lighthouse at six o’clock, serving as the centerpiece of the design. Gold-tone baton hands and subtle Noah NY and Timex branding at three and six o’clock complete the look, while the absence of hour markers keeps the focus on the artwork.
This collaboration stands out from typical fashion watch releases by integrating a personal, artistic touch that fits seamlessly with Noah’s aesthetic—mirroring the brand’s graphic tees and tailored pieces. The watch is powered by a reliable quartz movement, protected by a mineral glass crystal, and offers 30 meters of water resistance for everyday use. The 18mm lug width and compact size make it suitable for a range of wrist sizes, though the elliptical case may appeal most to those open to alternatives to round watches.
Pre-orders run from June 5–12, with delivery expected in November 2025. The $228 price point positions the Lighthouse Watch between entry-level fashion watches and basic Swiss options, reflecting Noah’s accessible luxury ethos and appealing to both streetwear fans and those who prefer preppy style.
Notably, this is the first Noah watch Babenzien plans to wear himself, despite not being a watch collector—a testament to the design’s broad appeal for those seeking a unique, easy-to-wear piece rather than a collector’s item. The collaboration demonstrates how fashion brands can create meaningful, affordable watches through authentic partnerships and storytelling, attracting both core customers and watch enthusiasts looking for alternatives to luxury icons.
