Timepieces That Stood Out at Met Gala 2026
From a rare Cartier Crash on the wrist of Rami Malek to diamond-covered Hublot creations worn by Luke Evans and Justin Jefferson, watches once again became an important part of the visual spectacle at Met Gala 2026.
Held in New York on Monday, 4 May, the annual Costume Institute Gala at the Metropolitan Museum of Art gathered high-profile guests for one of fashion’s most closely followed evenings. This year’s theme, “Fashion Is Art”, encouraged bold styling choices, dramatic tailoring and unconventional details. Alongside the eveningwear, several notable watches attracted attention on the red carpet.

Source: monochrome-watches.com
Cartier Crash Adds Mystery to Rami Malek’s Look
Rami Malek appeared to be wearing a Cartier Crash from 1992, although there was some uncertainty surrounding the exact version spotted on his wrist. Some observers identified the case as white gold, while others suggested platinum.
Either way, the asymmetrical Cartier design suited the artistic mood of the evening perfectly.
Diamond-Set Hublot for Luke Evans
Luke Evans embraced a far more theatrical aesthetic with the help of designer Alejandro Gómez Palomo. Completing the look was a Hublot Big Bang Unico High Jewellery 44 mm in white gold.
The watch features 334 diamonds with a combined weight of 17.2 carats, turning the already bold Big Bang into one of the evening’s most extravagant watches.
A Reverso for Tyriq Withers
Tyriq Withers opted for a Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso “Or Deco”, continuing the growing popularity of rectangular watches among younger collectors and celebrities.
The cocktail-style watch, paired with a Milanese steel bracelet, stood out against the actor’s otherwise restrained tailoring and added a distinctive accent to the overall look.
Omega Complements Connor Storrie’s Saint Laurent Outfit
Connor Storrie drew attention with a Saint Laurent ensemble built around a black polka-dot top finished with an unexpected flowing train.
On his wrist was an Omega Constellation Observatory in 18-carat gold, a watch that complemented the unconventional styling of the outfit.
Joe Alwyn Keeps Things Understated
Joe Alwyn selected a Hublot Classic Fusion King Gold 42 mm to accompany his evening attire.
The model’s ultra-thin King Gold case worked naturally with the restrained colour palette of his suit, offering a subtle contrast without overpowering the look.
Paul Anthony Kelly Coordinates Watch and Wardrobe
Paul Anthony Kelly matched his burgundy jacket with a Vacheron Constantin Overseas Tourbillon featuring a dial in a similar deep shade.
The actor also replaced the standard bracelet with a strap, giving the tourbillon a slightly more formal appearance for the occasion.
Jacob & Co. Returns on Dwayne Johnson’s Wrist
Dwayne Johnson was seen wearing Jacob & Co. once again, this time choosing the Billionaire III.
The skeletonised watch, set with more than 700 diamonds, added considerable brilliance to the actor’s otherwise classic black-and-white ensemble.
Lauren Wasser Makes a Strong Debut
Model Lauren Wasser attended her first Met Gala as a member of the event’s official organising committee.
Wearing a gold dress by Prabal Gurung, she completed the look with a diamond-set Hublot Big Bang Integrated King Gold Pavé 42 mm.
Justin Jefferson Chooses High Jewellery Hublot
NFL star Justin Jefferson also opted for Hublot, selecting the Spirit of Big Bang High Jewellery King Gold 42 mm.
Its tonneau-shaped case and carefully selected diamonds gave the watch a striking presence on the red carpet.
Stanley Tucci Opts for Classic Breitling
Stanley Tucci attended the gala alongside his wife Felicity Blunt shortly after completing the press tour for The Devil Wears Prada 2.
The actor was spotted wearing a Breitling Premier B01 Chronograph 42, a refined chronograph that provided a more understated alternative to many of the evening’s highly gem-set watches.
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