4 Of The Most Expensive Watches Worn By Royalty

Exquisite timepieces are common accessories among the affluent, including members of the world's monarchies. From Britain's Prince Charles and Duchess of Cambridge Kate Middleton to King Felipe VI of Spain, we take a closer look at some of these watches that have graced their wrists

Above Image: Cartier

1. Cartier Ballon Bleu

If you're thinking of getting your own Cartier Ballon Bleu, you will be in good company. The Duchess of Cambridge Kate Middleton owns a 33mm version in stainless steel, complete with a modern metal bracelet.

The House of Windsor and the House of Cartier go way back. In 1849, King Edward VII called Cartier the, “king of jewellers and the jeweller to kings.”

First introduced in 2007, the Ballon Bleu is timeless thanks to its Roman numerals and guilloche dial, and its unique placement of the blue sapphire cabochon crown is extremely futuristic. Duchess Kate's style continues to exceed our fashion expectations and her taste in watches doesn’t disappoint.

Above Image: Parmigiani Fleurier

2. Parmigiani Fleurier Toric Chronograph

Heir apparent to the British throne, Prince Charles is often seen wearing the Parmigiani Fleurier Toric Chronograph, which he discreetly tucks underneath his cuff. Most recently he was spotted with the Swiss watchmaker’s timepiece at this year’s Royal Ascot.

The centrepiece of England’s summer social season, Royal Ascot is an annual high-society horse racing event that has long been attended by the British royal family. His Royal Highness looked dashing in a well-tailored grey suit, which he wore with a finely pinstriped shirt in lilac, patterned pocket square and top hat.

The yellow gold watch itself is 39mm in diameter and features striking blue hour and second hands. The result is classic and appropriately majestic.

Above Image: Omega

3. Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean Olympic Edition

King Felipe VI of Spain ascended the throne in 2014 upon the abdication of his father, King Juan Carlos I who is, himself, an avid watch collector that's been spotted wearing Richard Mille and Audemars Piguet.

Posing here for an official portrait at Madrid’s Zarzuela Palace in 2010, the royal is pictured with the Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean Olympic Edition. It boasts a black lacquered dial and painted Arabic numerals, as well as an engraving on its case back of the iconic Olympic circles. This stainless-steel timepiece houses Omega's co-axial movement.

The Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean Tokyo 2020 Limited Edition was recently unveiled ahead of the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, which are now just one year away. The all-white ceramic bezel features a red '20,' marking the year of the next Olympics, and comes with a white alligator strap, a Nato strap and a stainless-steel bracelet for the ultimate in wearability.

Above Image: Backes & Strauss

4. Backes & Strauss Royal Kent

Prince Michael of Kent announced his partnership with British watchmakers Backes & Strauss last year, and has now helped design a limited edition collection of watches for the brand, aptly named the Royal Kent collection.

The prince himself has been photographed wearing a diamond-drenched piece from the men's collection, which features the watchmaker's iconic oval-shaped design that was first seen in the Regent collection.

Elements from his coat of arms have been set against a striking navy-blue dial, while the line's women's edition comes in mother-of-pearl and features Prince Michael's wife's coat of arms.

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Watches Royal Family Monarchy

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4 Of The Most Expensive Watches Worn By Royalty

1. Cartier Ballon Bleu

2. Parmigiani Fleurier Toric Chronograph

3. Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean Olympic Edition

4. Backes & Strauss Royal Kent