Rock Legends Watches

New acts and musicians come and go each year, but there are a few that have proven their mettle. In the age of autotune and digital music, rock legends continue to be relevant because of their timeless and universally relatable music.

We also believe it’s not just immense musical talent that makes a rock legend — it also takes style and attitude. If there’s one thing they have in common, aside from their musical gifts, it’s definitely got to taste. Check out the choice timepieces of rock legends, from Bono to Paul McCartney. Just like them, their watches are absolute classics!

Bono, lead singer and lyricist of the Irish rock band U2, is known for his profound lyrics and social commentary. He wears the ultimate luxury watch from Rolex – the Rolex President Day-Date.

Bono’s choice Day-Date is crafted in 18k white gold, from the case to the bracelet. A silver dial and baton hour markers complete the understated, yet no less luxurious look that’s suitable for both casual and formal occasions.

Three-time Rock and Roll Hall of Famer Eric Clapton isn’t just well-known in the field of music — he’s also a respected watch connoisseur. His collection of very rare Rolex and Patek Philippe (which we covered here) might be unattainable for many – but he’s also got daily wearers, among them a Rolex Milgauss.

The Milgauss is Rolex’s anti-magnetic watch, capable of withstanding magnetic fields of up to 1,000 gauss. The collection is known for its smooth and sleek design, green sapphire crystal, and bold orange thunderbolt hands and details.

Singer, songwriter, and guitarist Bruce Springsteen has a career spanning over 40 years. He shows no signs of stopping — his 2020 album even had one of the strongest worldwide debut sales.

Bruce wears a Rolex Submariner ref 1680. This reference is one of the most sought-after vintage Sub references, as it was the first to feature a date and a cyclops on its crystal.

Sir Paul McCartney of the Beatles can surely own any watch he wants, but he’s loyal to his Patek Philippe Aquanaut. He’s been photographed with it countless times, and even wore it to his wedding!

The Patek Philippe Aquanaut is a rather sporty Patek watch, with its decidedly masculine embossed dial and Tropical strap. In fact, it’s the first Patek to sport a rubber strap, complete with the brand’s Calatrava logo on the deployant clasp. Video from The Late Late Show With James Corden on YouTube

Red Hot Chili Pepper’s lead singer, Anthony Kiedis, sports one of the most coveted vintage Rolex models – the inaugural Rolex Explorer II or the “Freccione” (French for big arrow).

The ref 1655 was created as a tool watch for cave explorers, who work in low light conditions. The bright orange 24-hour hand and fixed bezel help distinguish between day and night hours.

Keith Richards is best known as the guitarist, secondary vocalist, and co-songwriter of the Rolling Stones. He wears an IWC Portuguese Chronograph.

The Portuguese Chrono is one of IWC’s most iconic models, whose elegant case, vertical subdials, and clean look have come to represent IWC’s refined craftsmanship. Practically unaltered since its launch in 1988, it’s the best-selling model in the Portuguese family, making it a veritable design success.