UPDATED JAN 8TH, 2025
Back in the day, watches were simply practical tools for telling time, serving a functional purpose in daily life. However, as fashion and glamour evolved, watches transformed into symbols of personality and taste—reflecting one’s class, style, and preferences. The Presidents of the United States have often been central to conversations about fascinating vintage timepieces.
It all began with George Washington, who owned a large, simple, key-wound Lepine pocket watch. This watch was purchased in Paris by his fellow Founding Father, Gouverneur Morris, at Washington’s request. Washington had specifically asked for a high-quality yet understated gold watch. Morris sought out Jean-Antoine Lépine, the watchmaker to King Louis XVI and one of the most esteemed craftsmen of his time, to fulfill the order.
Known to check his watch often, and many times in debates, there is little record of
Known for frequently checking his watch—sometimes during debates—there’s little definitive information about the watches he wore or currently wears. However, his habit of glancing at his watch often raised eyebrows during his presidency. This eventually led to Presidents being advised against looking at their watches during debates to avoid negative impressions.
In 1990, he was gifted a stunning Vulcain Cricket by Keijo Paajenan, though it remains unclear if he ever wore it. The watch pictured above might be a Timex, but we haven’t been able to confirm its model.
What we do know is that he wore a customized black Timex for several years, gifted to him by then-Congressman C.W. (Bill) Young of Florida. This is verified by a letter in which he expressed his delight, noting, "I’m especially pleased to see that the black Timex is still ticking."
Among all U.S. Presidents, Bill Clinton stands out as someone with a remarkable collection of vintage watches. Surprisingly, the watch that generated the most buzz wasn’t a luxury timepiece but the humble Timex Ironman digital watch. Clinton famously wore this “geeky” watch to the inaugural ball in 1993, earning him the nickname of a “techno-nerd.”
Additionally, Clinton has been known to wear a Jaeger-LeCoultre Navy SEALs Master Compressor (above). This rugged yet sophisticated dive watch underscores his eclectic taste in timepieces, blending functionality with style—a fitting addition to his diverse collection.
He has been popularly known to be wearing a Timex at most times, seen wearing the Timex i-Control during his 2000 election campaign. He was soon seen switching to a simpler, Timex Indiglo with white & black numerals.
Barack Obama’s choice of watches has always drawn significant attention, particularly from vintage watch enthusiasts. For nearly a decade, he was often seen wearing a TAG Heuer 1500 Two-Tone Diver, a classic piece he occasionally sported even during his presidency.
Throughout much of his presidential campaign, Obama favored a Jorg Gray 6500, featuring a Secret Service insignia on the dial, black leather straps, and white stitching. This watch became iconic, often associated with his journey to the White House.
There’s plenty of buzz around Donald Trump for reasons beyond watches, but when it comes to timepieces, the former President’s style is as bold as his persona. Despite having his Trump Signature Collection, he is most often seen wearing high-end, gold (naturally!) dress watches from the 1980s.
On election night, Trump donned the elegant Vacheron Constantin Historiques Ultra-Fine 1968 (Below)in pink gold, a timeless and sophisticated choice. He’s also frequently spotted wearing the classic Rolex Day-Date in yellow gold, often referred to as the "President's Watch" for its association with world leaders.
Among the many watches exchanged as gifts with Trump, one particularly striking piece is the Patek Philippe Ellipse in yellow gold, featuring a blue dial and an integrated bracelet—a truly luxurious addition to his collection. These watches, much like Trump himself, reflect a bold, unmistakable presence.
Biden’s watch of choice for over a decade has been a stainless steel blue Omega Seamaster, a timeless classic that, much like Joe, isn’t too flashy. At around $4,000 USD new, it’s a watch within reach for many, with used models on the secondary market often selling for well under $2,000 USD. We believe it to be the Ref. 212.30.41.20.03.001, powered by the Co-Axial calibre 2500, now discontinued by Omega.
If you have any info to the contrary, let us know! Regardless, the Seamaster is a rugged and stylish dive watch that stands the test of time. Whatever your thoughts on Joe’s politics, you’ve got to admit—he has decent taste in watches.
Watch our video to cover the past 5 decades of Presidential watches!
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