In the rarefied world of luxury watches, when diamonds are added the timepiece steps beyond utility into the realm of statement, spectacle and investment. A recent feature by GQ India lists seven of the most lavish diamond-set watches in the world — variants that blend haute horology with high jewellery.
These watches command attention not just for their craftsmanship, but for their symbolism: wealth, status, style and the merging of watch-making technique with gem-setting artistry.
Seven standout timepieces
Among the list featured:
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Patek Philippe Grand Complication Minute Repeater Perpetual Calendar, worn by Shah Rukh Khan: Valued at nearly US $2 million (~₹16 crore), featuring 80 baguette-cut diamonds.
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Rolex Oyster Perpetual Cosmograph Daytona (diamond-set bezel and dial): a fusion of chronograph functionality and gem-setting luxury.
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Cartier Panthère de Cartier (diamond, emeralds, coloured stones) worn by Diljit Dosanjh at the Met Gala: luxury with regal references.
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Jacob & Co. Billionaire III worn by Salman Khan: Encrusted with 714 diamonds totalling ~129 carats, skeletonised tourbillon movement, 18 k white gold case—priced around ₹41 crore.
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Hublot Big Bang Unico King Gold Diamond: 42mm case in proprietary “King Gold” with 126 diamonds, blending movement visibility.
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Chopard Alpine Eagle 41: Robust watch with diamond-set case and textured dial, straddling sporty luxury and jewellery.
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Franck Muller Vanguard (diamond-encrusted tonneau case): For collectors who prioritise design daring and gem-set finishing.
Why these watches matter
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Status & symbolism: These aren’t mere time-keepers. They’re wearable statements of affluence, craftsmanship and exclusivity.
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Craftmanship plus gems: The watches integrate advanced watch mechanisms (minute repeaters, tourbillons, automatic chronographs) and high-jewellery stone-setting. They bridge two luxury crafts.
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Celebrity branding: With major celebrities like Salman Khan and Shah Rukh Khan associated, the watches receive additional cultural cachet, especially in India.
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