The 2026 US Open was a spectacle not only of athletic prowess but also of horological artistry, with an array of exquisite timepieces gracing the wrists of tennis stars and prominent figures. This event consistently delivers an annual showcase of exceptional watches, ranging from the iconic Rolex models donned by legends like Roger Federer to the feather-light Richard Mille creations seen both on and off the court. Even in its initial stages, the tournament revealed a stunning variety of brands, including Cartier, Patek Philippe, and exclusive independent watchmakers, captivating enthusiasts with their intricate designs and luxurious appeal. These sightings underscore the deep connection between elite sports, celebrity culture, and the world of high-end watchmaking, turning the US Open into a unique stage for observing both athletic excellence and sartorial elegance.
Among the most striking discoveries was the titanium-cased Porsche Design Chronograph 1, prominently displayed on Orlando Bloom’s wrist, setting an early high standard for watch enthusiasts. The tournament continued to unveil a series of remarkable pieces, such as Roger Federer's vibrant Rolex Oyster Perpetual with its Jubilee dial, a significant celebratory model marking a century of the brand’s flagship Oyster Perpetual line. Furthermore, Marta Kostyuk, a young Ukrainian talent, sported a sophisticated Patek Philippe Aquanaut, showcasing her refined taste. Kaia Gerber, too, made a statement with her elegant Panthère de Cartier, a watch with a rich history tied to the brand's iconic mascot. This blend of athletic competition and luxurious accessorizing provided a compelling narrative, solidifying the US Open's reputation as a prime location for spotting rare and celebrated timepieces.
The Iconic Timepieces of Tennis Legends
The 2026 US Open provided an exceptional opportunity to witness renowned athletes and public figures showcasing their exquisite taste in luxury watches, transforming the tennis tournament into an unexpected horological exhibit. Roger Federer, a long-standing ambassador for Rolex, was seen wearing the distinctive Oyster Perpetual ref. 134300, a 41mm model featuring the colorful "Jubilee" dial. Despite its robust stainless steel construction, Federer chose to wear this significant timepiece during a practice session against Lorenzo Musetti, highlighting its blend of elegance and functionality. This particular model, released to commemorate 100 years of the Oyster Perpetual, boasts a playful dial composed of multi-colored tiles spelling out the brand’s name, quickly becoming one of the year’s most coveted releases and appearing on the wrists of global icons like Lionel Messi and Ed Sheeran.
This year’s tournament was a true celebration of watch culture, extending beyond the typical lightweight athletic timepieces often seen on the court. Federer’s choice of the Oyster Perpetual underscored the trend of combining high performance with sophisticated style. The watch, with its intricate Jubilee dial, not only paid homage to Rolex’s rich heritage but also reflected a contemporary aesthetic embraced by influential personalities across various fields. The sightings confirmed that the US Open serves as a premier event for both sports and luxury enthusiasts, where the precision of tennis meets the artistry of watchmaking, creating a compelling narrative for fans eager to observe the latest in both domains. The presence of such iconic pieces further cements the tournament's status as a must-attend event for those with an appreciation for both athletic and horological excellence.
Celebrity Watch Spotting at the US Open
Beyond the tennis courts, the grandstands of the US Open became a runway for high-end watch fashion, with several celebrities flaunting their impressive collections. Ukrainian tennis player Marta Kostyuk, despite her young age, exhibited a remarkably mature appreciation for fine timepieces by wearing a Patek Philippe Aquanaut ref. 5067A-014 during her matches. This elegant watch features a 36.3mm stainless steel case, a bezel adorned with 46 diamonds, an embossed blue dial with distinct red-fringed indices, and a luminous sword handset. Uniquely, Kostyuk chose to pair it with a fabric strap, deviating from the typical rubber strap associated with the Aquanaut collection, thereby adding a personalized touch to her on-court attire.
The US Open also saw fashion icon Kaia Gerber making a statement with her sophisticated Panthère de Cartier. Opting for the "mini" size in yellow gold, Gerber's choice paid tribute to a design originating in the 1910s, though it was popularized as a watch collection in the 1980s. This exquisite dress watch, known for its multi-link bracelet, has historically been favored by a distinguished "in" crowd, including figures like Keith Richards, Madonna, and Gwyneth Paltrow, and more recently, Taylor Swift and actor David Jonsson. Similarly, actor Orlando Bloom, a known Porsche enthusiast and brand ambassador, sported a Porsche Design Chronograph 1 from the 1975 Limited Edition, featuring a titanium case and black dial. This lightweight, versatile, and stylish driver’s watch, powered by the automatic, COSC-certified Porsche Design calibre WERK 01.140, was a standout piece, further highlighting the blend of luxury, innovation, and personal style evident throughout the tournament. These celebrity sightings underscore the pervasive influence of luxury watches in contemporary culture, extending their appeal far beyond traditional horology circles to encompass the worlds of sports, fashion, and entertainment.
