Five Billion-Dollar Looking Watches that Don't Cost a Billion Dollars - Men's Folio
Time, Editor's Pick

Five Billion-Dollar Looking Watches that Don’t Cost a Billion Dollars

  • By Asaph Low


As the saying goes, “if you got it, flaunt it” (if you’ve put on some paunch, maybe you should read this instead). Watches, especially those cased in gold or encrusted with diamonds, are the ultimate display of one’s power and wealth. In the revered world of Haute horology, the grandest of watches aren’t only defined by bling but also by factors such as complications (the other functions that don’t tell time), innovations (how your watch gets icier or hardier) or exclusivity.

Here are some marvellous ones that’ll make you feel like a billionaire baller the minute you put them on, without well, costing a billion dollars.

Hublot Big Bang Scuderia Ferrari 90th Anniversary Edition


The story of Hublot’s Big Bang collection is essentially one where watches are made from a fusion of different materials. The Scuderia Ferrari 90th Anniversary Edition is no different where it ups the wow factor with a polished sapphire case and a carbon-ceramic bezel. The Prancing Horse is proudly emblazoned on the dial. Price: $89,600


Omega Seamaster Aqua Terra “Ultra Light”

The Omega Seamaster Aqua Terra “Ultra Light”, developed together with Golf superstar Rory McIlroy is dubbed the ultimate athlete’s watch for good reasons. It might not seem likely, but the watch weighs a mere 55 grams thanks to its titanium case as well as a titanium watch movement — Omega’s first-ever. Price: $67,500


Montblanc Star Legacy Suspended Exo Tourbillon

Tourbillons are a visual spectacle, captivating the eyes and hearts of admirers. The Montblanc Star Legacy Suspended Exo Tourbillon demonstrates the house’s mastery of Haute horology with a raised tourbillon that gives viewers an impression that it is floating in its fine 18k rose gold case.

Price: $150,600


Zenith Defy El Primero 21

Zenith continues to break the codes of conventional watchmaking with the use of black carbon as the choice material for the Zenith Defy El Primero 21. The open-worked dial allows one to view the whopping 293 components working in harmony to power this futuristic watch.


Roger Dubuis Excalibur Spider Pirelli

Roger Dubuis’s Excalibur is a forceful expression of style and extravagance paired with serious watchmaking pedigree. The Spider Pirelli Edition plays with Pirelli’s famed yellow colour code and features a strap constructed with rubber inlays from certified Pirelli winning tyres used in real car races. Price: $101,100