While Rolex takes center stage as the sponsor of the U.S. Open, other prominent watchmakers are making their presence felt at the fourth and final Grand Slam of 2023. Notable celebrities and players gracing the event in Queens, New York, are sporting exquisite timepieces from the top-tier trio of Rolex, Patek Philippe, and Audemars Piguet. Additionally, there are opulent six-figure creations from independent watchmakers like De Béthune, blending a mix of vintage and contemporary horology. The majority of these watches hail from Switzerland, except for one special piece born in Silicon Valley – an Apple Watch that adorned a former president’s wrist.
Although the U.S. Open will continue until September 9, here’s a glimpse of the finest watches we’ve witnessed at the tournament so far:
Jimmy Butler’s Patek Philippe Nautilus: Miami Heat forward Jimmy Butler made a statement with his choice of wristwear, showcasing the sought-after Patek Philippe Nautilus Ref. 5711/1A-010 with a distinctive blue dial. This discontinued rarity initially retailed for $35,000 but now commands a hefty price of $100,000 to $120,000 in the secondary market.
Taylor Zakhar Perez’s TAG Heuer Carrera “Glassbox”: Actor Taylor Zakhar Perez perfectly matched his wristwatch with the iconic U.S. Open Blue tennis courts. He sported a modern TAG Heuer “Glassbox” model, a contemporary take on the classic Carrera from 1963. This model boasts a 39 mm steel case, a navy dial, and domed crystal, all for a relatively affordable price of $6,450.
Pusha T’s Rolex Day-Date 40: American rapper Pusha T turned heads with his iced-out Oyster Perpetual Day-Date 40. This 18-karat white-gold Rolex is adorned with a diamond-set bezel and a dazzling diamond-pave dial featuring eight baguette-cut diamonds and two baguette-cut sapphires at 6 and 9 o’clock. Equipped with the classic President bracelet, this luxurious piece comes with a price tag upon request.
J Balvin’s Audemars Piguet Royal Oak: J Balvin made a vibrant fashion statement at the U.S. Open by pairing his striking green ensemble with an Audemars Piguet Royal Oak. This timepiece showcases a 37 mm 18-carat frosted white gold case, an open-worked rhodium-toned dial, and a bezel adorned with 32 baguette-cut rainbow-colored sapphires totaling 2.24 carats. The cost? Price upon request, naturally.
President Barack Obama’s Apple Watch: Former President Barack Obama kept it understated at the men’s singles on day one with a discreet black Apple Watch. A subtle upgrade from his previous Fitbit Ionic, the exact model is challenging to discern, but the latest Series 8 starts at $249.