John Mayer with John Mayer Audemars Piguet Royal Oak watch

 

Do famous musicians really have great watch collections? Luxury watches are a staple accessory for the world’s elite, from first-class athletes to Hollywood stars. Many famous musicians are also avid watch collectors. For those who spend their lives dedicated to creating art, it should come as no surprise that they appreciate the aesthetic and technical appeal of a stunning upscale timepiece. Furthermore, many of these renowned artists have the means to acquire some of the most desirable models on the market.

Join us as we venture behind-the-scenes, revealing the treasured timepieces of your favorite musicians. From Eric Clapton to Jay-Z, these sonic artists have impressive taste when it comes to wristwear. Whether you are looking for inspiration for your next watch investment or simply curious about the sensibilities of your favorite creators, you will find everything you have been searching for in our compilation of famous musicians and their watch collections.

 

John Mayer

Widely considered one of the most prolific songwriters of our generation, John Mayer is perhaps the best-known watch collector on this list. Whether he is singing Daughters or Half of My Heart, Mayer is likely to be seen showcasing a prestigious piece of wristwear. His watch box embraces a modern philosophy of collecting, offering up both historically significant models and new-age pieces with avant garde aesthetics. Mayer has become a horological authority of sorts in recent years, and the timepieces that he chooses often indicate (or even catalyze) trends in the broader timepiece industry as a whole.

One might argue that the foundation of Mayer’s watch collection is the Rolex Daytona, the iconic racing chronograph from the brand dubbed The Crown. Mayer has been photographed wearing countless different Daytona models, from the playful “Rainbow” edition to the sophisticated “Panda” variation. There is even a Rolex Daytona “John Mayer” edition named after the musician. He has also been spotted in other Rolex lines, like the GMT-Master II and the Submariner. But Mayer’s collection goes far beyond just Rolex.

He also owns a variety of Patek Philippe watches, a Panerai Luminor, and numerous Audemars Piguet creations. The Swiss brand Audemars Piguet even collaborated with John Mayer on a namesake Royal Oak model that emphasizes the musician’s commitment to elite watchmaking. Haute horology tends to dominate Mayer’s collection, but he does have a few lower-caliber timepieces like G-Shocks, Swatches, and more. Overall though, this performer has a clear appreciation for the most elite watches around.

Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Perpetual Calendar “John Mayer” Edition, 18K White Gold, 41 mmAudemars Piguet Royal Oak Perpetual Calendar “John Mayer” Edition, 18K White Gold, 41 mm
Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Perpetual Calendar “John Mayer” Edition, 18K White Gold, 41 mm

Eric Singer of KISS

Face paint and hairspray might not seem like the most logical connection to luxury watches, but the drummer from renowned ‘70s rock band KISS has one of the most impressive collections out there. Eric Singer owns a variety of both vintage and modern timepieces, including a 1920s Patek Philippe pocket watch that is any collector’s holy grail. In addition to KISS, Singer has drummed with Alice Cooper, Black Sabbath, Brian May, and countless others. His list of luxury watches is just as extensive.

So, what is in Eric Singer’s watch box? You will find stunning examples of haute horology from brands like TAG Heuer, Rolex, Audemars Piguet, Hublot, Breitling, and Panerai. Singer’s thoughts on the Italian masterpieces produced by Panerai? “I love Panerai because I like the utilitarian simplicity of it,” he has remarked. We cannot help but agree.

Panerai Radiomir, Black Seal, Steel, Black Dial, 45 mmPanerai Radiomir, Black Seal, Steel, Black Dial, 45 mm
Panerai Radiomir, Black Seal, Steel, Black Dial, 45 mm

Ed Sheeran

Irish singer and songwriter Ed Sheeran is perhaps one of the most prolific watch collectors of our time. He has amassed an impressive lineup of luxury timepieces, including stunners from Richard Mille, Audemars Piguet, and Rolex. Furthermore, his collection spans a huge range of price points: he has $130 G-Shock watches situated beside six-figure Rafael Nadal X Richard Mille chronographs. But the true standout components of Sheeran’s watch box are his gorgeous Patek Philippe timepieces.

The musician is a proud owner of the coveted Patek Philippe Nautilus 5711 Tiffany Blue edition, of which only 170 pieces were made. He also owns a variety of Grand Complications, Calatrava, and Complications models (including two of the World Time variety, as shown below). Whenever photographs of Sheeran make their way into your news feed, be sure to glance at his wrist. You are virtually guaranteed to spot a memorable watch.

Patek Philippe Complications World Time, Platinum, Green Opaline Dial, 40 mmPatek Philippe Complications World Time, Platinum, Green Opaline Dial, 40 mm
Patek Philippe Complications World Time, Platinum, Green Opaline Dial, 40 mm

Jay-Z

Perhaps the globe’s wealthiest music industry name, Jay-Z has a world-class watch collection that speaks for itself. The music mogul, who is married to exceptional artist Beyonce, has everything from limited edition Richard Mille creations Arabic language Rolex watches. There is virtually no end to the timepieces he is interested in, and many brands have honored Jay-Z by creating special edition watches in his name. Furthermore, many of his rap lyrics reference luxury timepieces. Take the 2011 hit Who Gon Stop Me, in which Jay-Z raps, “So many watches I need eight arms/One neck but got eight charms.”

Many of Jay-Z’s watches are special edition or custom pieces, making them challenging to find on the secondary market. If you can score a watch that matches one in this successful entrepreneur’s watch box, move fast: It likely will not last long. Even if you cannot find the exact model Jay-Z has worn, you can take cues from his style. For instance, the rapper and businessman has been a supporter of Richard Mille watches since day one.

Richard Mille RM 35-02 “Rafael Nadal,” Red TPT, Transparent Dial, 50 mmRichard Mille RM 35-02 “Rafael Nadal,” Red TPT, Transparent Dial, 50 mm
Richard Mille RM 35-02 “Rafael Nadal,” Red TPT, Transparent Dial, 50 mm

Eric Clapton

English singer, songwriter, and guitarist Eric Clapton might be the original musician turned watch collector. A staple of ‘70s heavy metal with the band Cream, Clapton has a robust collection of luxury timepieces, mainly centered around Rolex watches. In fact, it has been reported that Clapton’s fondness for rare Rolex models is the thing that prompted modern musician John Mayer’s interest in the same. These days, many of Eric Clapton’s watches have been auctioned off for record prices. Owning a timepiece from the collection of this music legend is a nod to both exquisite haute horology and the legacy of modern rock music.

A vintage Rolex Daytona, like the gorgeous “Big Red” reference shown below, is the perfect nod to Eric Clapton’s signature style.

Rolex Daytona “Big Red,” Stainless Steel, Black Index Dial, Oyster Bracelet, 37 mmRolex Daytona “Big Red,” Stainless Steel, Black Index Dial, Oyster Bracelet, 37 mm
Rolex Daytona “Big Red,” Stainless Steel, Black Index Dial, Oyster Bracelet, 37 mm

Bad Bunny

Bad Bunny is widely considered one of the greatest rappers of all time. He is credited with bringing modern Latin music and Spanish language songs into the mainstream and has been one of Spotify’s top streaming artists year after year. In addition to his catchy, memorable songs, Bad Bunny is known for his bold and adventurous style. His watch collection is particularly impressive, showcasing pieces from Audemars Piguet, Cartier, Rolex, Vacheron Constantin, and others top-tier brands.

Our favorite piece in Bad Bunny’s collection, however, holds a special place in our hearts. Bad Bunny has been photographed wearing our very own Avi & Co. Iced Collection watch in 18K rose gold. He opted for the versatile 40 mm case, which is a midsize option perfect for any wrist. This decadent timepiece allowed Bad Bunny to showcase his signature flamboyant style with a diamond-studded watch that will never disappoint. You can channel his iconic flair with an Iced Collection watch in a variety of case sizes (37 mm, 40 mm, or 44 mm) that complement every individual’s personal taste.

Avi & Co. Iced Collection Watch, 18K Rose Gold, Diamond Dial, 40 mmAvi & Co. Iced Collection Watch, 18K Rose Gold, Diamond Dial, 40 mm
Avi & Co. Iced Collection Watch, 18K Rose Gold, Diamond Dial, 40 mm

Sir Elton John

It likely comes as no surprise that Sir Elton John’s watch collection is full of wild, zany masterpieces from the world’s top brands. He owns a leopard-print Rolex Daytona, a Cartier Tank Divan, and countless other gem-set, vibrant creations. Throughout his glittery career, Elton John has sold over 300 million records, which certainly gives him license to invest in these luxury items. Recently, Sotheby’s auctioned off a number of Elton John’s watches for charitable causes, including his own Elton John AIDS foundation. In addition to being an incredible musician and horological enthusiast, Elton John is a renowned philanthropist.

Among his elite timepieces is a stunning Franck Muller Cintree Curvex, a unique watch with an unusual oblong case. The Art Deco numerals and colorful accents on this attractive watch fit right in with the rest of Elton John’s exquisite and whimsical collection. You will never go wrong taking a page out of Elton John’s book when it comes to style vibrant, bold style.

Franck Muller Cintree Curvex, Platinum, Black Dial, 55 mmFranck Muller Cintree Curvex, Platinum, Black Dial, 55 mm
Franck Muller Cintree Curvex, Platinum, Black Dial, 55 mm

Take Home the Watch of Your Dreams at Avi & Co. 

Here at Avi & Co., we specialize in renowned luxury watch brands from around the globe, including Rolex, Richard Mille, Audemars Piguet, and Patek Philippe. Our three showrooms are stocked with glamorous accessories and collectible timepieces that you will be thrilled to fasten around your wrist. Do not forget to explore our own Avi & Co. watch lines as well as our decadent Diamonds by Avi & Co. jewelry line, perfect for the sophisticated modern woman, when you visit. No matter the occasion, we have the accessories you need.

Make an appointment today to shop with us in person today. We cannot wait to offer you a warm welcome into our Avi & Co. family.