The FIFA World Cup isn’t just a battle for global football supremacy—it is arguably the world’s most watched, unofficial runway for high-end horology. While the golden boots make the goals, the wristwear makes the ultimate statement.
If you look closely at the sidelines, the locker room tunnels, and the podiums, you’ll find that the history of the World Cup is packed with bizarre and incredible luxury watch moments. And no one did it quite like the Golden Boy himself.
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The Double-Wristing Legend of Diego Maradona
Diego Maradona was famous for his unmatched flair on the pitch, but his most eccentric style choice was spotted whenever he rolled up his sleeves. The legendary Argentine was frequently photographed wearing two luxury watches at the exact same time—most notably, a pair of matching Rolex Daytonas.
So, why the double-wristing? Was it just an ultimate flex?
Actually, it was incredibly practical—and deeply sentimental. Maradona wore one watch set to the local time of wherever he was playing or managing in the world, while the second watch was permanently set to the time in Buenos Aires. It was a fiercely loyal nod to his homeland, ensuring he always knew what time it was back home with his family.
The Modern Solution: The Rolex GMT-Master II
While Maradona’s twin-Rolex strategy is a legendary piece of World Cup trivia, modern globetrotters have a much more elegant horological solution for tracking time zones.
Enter the Rolex GMT-Master II.
With the massive 2026 World Cup fast approaching—spanning across the US, Canada, and Mexico—fans, executives, and collectors are going to be jumping across time zones at a blistering pace. A GMT-Master II allows you to track multiple time zones simultaneously without having to double-wrist like Diego. Whether you prefer the iconic two-tone bezel of the “Pepsi,” the sleek “Batman,” or the warm tones of a “Root Beer,” the Rolex GMT-Master II is the ultimate travel companion for tournament season.
Shop Rolex GMT-Master II Watches
The $10 Million Handshake: The Trophy Lift Flex
Maradona’s time-zone tracking is just the tip of the iceberg. Fast forward to modern tournaments, and eagle-eyed fans will notice a phenomenon we like to call the “Trophy Lift Flex.”
Have you ever noticed what happens the moment the final whistle blows? Before the confetti drops and the cameras start flashing, star players and managers can be seen reaching for their bags to strap on their heaviest-hitting luxury timepieces. From ultra-rare Patek Philippes and Audemars Piguets to vibrant Richard Milles, these watches are deliberately put on just seconds before lifting the trophy.
These players know that the victory photos will be immortalized in history forever, creating what is essentially a “$10 million handshake” between the world’s greatest athletes and the world’s most prestigious watchmakers.
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The Atlanta Connection for 2026
With the 2026 World Cup coming directly to our backyard here in Atlanta, we expect to see global collectors and enthusiasts walking through our Buckhead showroom doors. Atlanta is set to host 8 incredible matches—including a highly anticipated semi-final showdown.
If you’re flying into town for a match at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, book an appointment to view these legendary pieces in person at SwissWatchExpo. Whether you’re looking for a World Cup-worthy Rolex Daytona or the perfect travel-ready GMT-Master II, we have the timepiece to make sure you arrive at kickoff in style.
