Editor’s Note
This article explores the world of ultra-luxury timepieces, where price is often secondary to artistry, heritage, and the story behind each creation.
Luxury watches are not just devices for telling time. They are a combination of art, heritage, and exquisite craftsmanship. They are not sold in the market like ordinary goods. These beautiful watches become family heirlooms. Their stories add to their value. In 2014, London-based jewelry company Graff Diamonds unveiled a watch at Baselworld. The design of this remarkable watch was created by the company’s founder, Laurence Graff. It is set with approximately 110 carats of rare colored diamonds. Over 30 designers, gemologists, and craftsmen spent more than four years creating it. Its price is around 456 crore rupees (55 million dollars). This is the world’s most expensive watch.
Apart from modern watches, vintage watches also have their own history. Princess Diana’s Cartier Tank Française watch was inherited by her son, Prince Harry. Later, Prince Harry gifted this watch to Meghan Markle. Actor Paul Newman’s Rolex Paul Newman Daytona watch was auctioned in 2017 for approximately 140 crore rupees.
Mukesh Ambani’s youngest son, Anant Ambani, is a major collector of rare watches. He owns a Patek Philippe Grandmaster Chime watch. Its price is over 18 crore rupees. This reflects his passion for exquisite craftsmanship. Recently, the watch that brought him into the spotlight is the Richard Mille RM 52-04 Skull Blue Sapphire. Its price is 22 crore rupees. There are only 3 pieces of this watch in the world.