Decoding The Royal Style: Watches Worn By The British Royal Family

05 Apr, 2024

Decoding The Royal Style: Watches Worn By The British Royal Family

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The Royal family has always been an icon of style and elegance. From the Queen’s colourful hat collection to Kate Middleton’s elegant dresses, the Royals know how to dress to impress. An important accessory that completes their polished looks regardless of the occasion is a fine luxury watch. The watches worn by the Royals make powerful statements about their styles and status.

Some watches have become synonymous with the Royals themselves, expressing their tastes perfectly. From old-school pieces to models that are beyond just timepieces and are more like sentimental souvenirs, the Royal family watch collection impresses with their diversity.

Watches Worn By Queen Elizabeth II

One of the most iconic timepieces worn by Queen Elizabeth II was the Jaeger-LeCoultre Caliber 101, gifted to her for her 1953 coronation by the former President of France. At the time, it represented a historic achievement as the world’s smallest mechanical watch movement ever produced. The dainty diamond-set piece allowed the Queen to discreetly tell time during public appearances, following Royal etiquettes.

Patek Philippe was another recognisable maison that was a favourite of hers. She wore a custom Patek Philippe Ellipse encrusted in diamonds and pearls to the state opening of Parliament in 2006. She also owned a Patek Philippe Golden Ellipse, seen in her 1984 portrait, as well as a practical quartz Patek Philippe Calatrava on a “beads of rice” bracelet. Her watches reflected her classical taste and personal style.

Watches Worn By King Charles III

King Charles III has long shown fondness for Parmigiani Fleurier, a relatively new Swiss watchmaker founded in 1996. His watch of choice for public appearances over the years has been the Parmigiani Fleurier Toric Chronograph. During recent events, such as mourning Queen Elizabeth II’s passing, Charles has continued wearing his beloved Toric Chronograph. This deep-cut choice reflects Charles’ discernment and appreciation for master watchmaking.

His Toric Chronograph features Parmigiani’s signature knurled bezel and a finely finished Zenith El Primero movement, representing an era before Parmigiani had fully established its watchmaking centre. The vintage-inspired chronograph combines the best of traditional Swiss watchmaking with flourishes of independent artistry that Charles favours. From the engine-turned dial to the artful date window at the 1:30 placement, the watch is emblematic of Parmigiani’s meticulous early aesthetics and Charles’ refined taste.

King Charles III in popular luxury timepieces, such as Santos de Cartier, Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso, and more….

Watches Worn By Princess Diana

The most fashionable member of the Royal family, Princess Diana had an affinity for elegant timepieces. She frequently wore a vintage 21mm yellow gold Patek Philippe with a champagne dial, gifted by Prince Charles for her 20th birthday. Diana embraced Cartier in her later years as a working royal. Following her divorce in 1996, she was often spotted wearing Cartier Tank watches, including Tank Louis on an alligator strap and a formal yellow gold Tank Française with an integrated bracelet. Her watches evolved with her public life, but always maintained her signature elegance.

Watches Worn By Prince William

Prince William has long favoured the Omega Seamaster Diver 300M, a gift from his late mother, Princess Diana. The mid-size steel watch with a blue dial and quartz movement holds deep sentimental value for William, who has worn it to momentous occasions, including his wedding to Kate Middleton in 2011.

It is believed Diana gifted her son the Seamaster when he was young, cementing it as his go-to timepiece for over a decade. While the Royal family showcases a range of luxury brands, Prince William has remained loyal to this single Omega that connects him to his beloved late mother. It accompanies him through life’s biggest events and remains an enduring reminder of Diana.

Watches Worn By Kate, Princess of Wales

Akin to her husband, Kate Middleton famously wears just one elegant timepiece – the Cartier Ballon Bleu. Her stainless steel model features a pristine silver dial and signature blue sword-shaped hands that complement her sapphire engagement ring. Prince William gifted her the watch for their 3rd anniversary in 2014, adding a meaningful sapphire to honour his late mother, Princess Diana, who also loved Cartier.

At 33mm, Kate’s Ballon Bleu is understated yet makes a sophisticated style statement with a classic bracelet. She wears the versatile watch regularly for engagements, Wimbledon appearances, and formal occasions, letting the neutral tones effortlessly match her outfit. Loyal to a single watch like her husband, Kate’s Cartier reflects her refined fashion sense and connection to the minimalistic elegance that is the signature of the royal family.

Watches Worn By Meghan Markle

Meghan Markle proudly wears a Cartier Tank Française that previously belonged to her late mother-in-law, Princess Diana. This two-tone timepiece was one of Diana’s favourites and was inherited by Prince Harry. Markle is often seen stacking the watch with a Cartier Love bracelet for a signature look, appreciating its sentimental provenance.