
Top Watches Worn By Football Legends

Football is more than just a game – it is a global phenomenon where players are celebrated not only for their skills on the field but also for their style off it. Among the most notable elements of a footballer’s fashion statement is their choice of wristwatch. From the glitz of the UEFA European Football Championship to everyday life, these athletes showcase some of the most luxurious timepieces in the world. In this article, we explore the top watches worn by football legends.
Cristiano Ronaldo – The Icon of Elegance
Cristiano Ronaldo, one of the most renowned footballers globally, is known for his impeccable style and exceptional taste in luxury watches. Playing for Al Nassr FC, and formerly for Real Madrid, Juventus, and Manchester United, Ronaldo has always been in the limelight, not just for his extraordinary skills but also for his flair off the pitch. His collection of watches is as impressive as his career, featuring some of the most opulent and sophisticated timepieces in the world.
Among CR7’s favorites is the Rolex GMT-Master II “Ice”, a testament to his luxurious lifestyle and status as a football legend. This watch is entirely encrusted with diamonds and made from 18k white gold, making it one of the most opulent watches in the Rolex lineup. The 40mm case size and the Oyster bracelet add to its sophisticated look. The GMT-Master II “Ice” is not just a timekeeping device but a statement piece that reflects Ronaldo’s persona both on and off the field. Its exquisite craftsmanship and sparkling elegance make it a perfect fit for someone who embodies luxury and excellence like Ronaldo.
Ronaldo’s collection also includes the Jacob & Co. Bugatti Chiron Tourbillon CR7 Edition, a unique timepiece that mirrors the power and speed of the Bugatti Chiron hypercar. Another watch of his is the Jacob & Co. Caviar Flying Tourbillon “Tsavorites”. This watch is adorned with vivid green tsavorites, a rare gemstone, giving it an eye-catching appearance.
The Hublot MP-09 Bi-Axis Tourbillon King Gold is another favorite of Ronaldo’s. Known for its bold and innovative design, this watch features a bi-axis tourbillon and a case made from King Gold, a special alloy developed by Hublot.
Lionel Messi – Timeless Precision
Lionel Messi, often regarded as one of the greatest football players of all time, is synonymous with precision and elegance. Currently playing for Inter Miami CF, and having had illustrious careers with FC Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain, Messi’s choice in watches mirrors his playing style. Messi’s watch collection is as impressive and diverse as his career.
One of Messi’s standout watches is the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak, a timepiece known for its distinctive octagonal bezel and integrated bracelet. This watch’s design, with its stainless steel case and Grande Tapisserie pattern dial, is a perfect match for Messi’s refined approach to football.
Another significant piece in Messi’s collection is the Patek Philippe Nautilus. Known for its sporty, yet elegant design, the Nautilus features a distinctive porthole-shaped case and a horizontally embossed dial. The combination of stainless steel with a blue dial is both classic and versatile.
Adding to his impressive collection, Messi has been seen wearing the Rolex Yacht-Master, a watch that perfectly complements his refined taste. The Yacht-Master, with its 40mm case, combines luxury and functionality, making it ideal for both casual and formal occasions.
Neymar Jr. – Flair and Panache
Playing for Paris Saint-Germain, the Brazilian football sensation, Neymar Jr.’s dynamic and expressive nature is perfectly complemented by his choice of luxurious and bold watches. His collection is a reflection of his vibrant personality and his love for unique, eye-catching timepieces.
Among Neymar’s favorites is the GaGà Milano Manuale 48MM, a watch that embodies his colorful style. The GaGà Milano Manuale 48MM is characterized by its large 48mm case and hand-wound movement, available in a variety of vibrant colors.
Another significant piece in Neymar’s collection is the Rolex Daytona with a green dial, often referred to as the “John Mayer” Daytona. This watch is renowned for its stunning green dial and its association with both luxury and performance.
Adding to that, Neymar owns the Hublot Big Bang Unico Sapphire. This watch features a transparent sapphire crystal case, allowing a full view of its intricate mechanics. The flyback chronograph and its striking appearance make it a standout piece in Neymar’s collection.
David Beckham – Classic Sophistication
David Beckham, a style icon and football legend, has always been known for his classic sophistication both on and off the pitch. Though retired, Beckham’s legacy includes memorable stints at Manchester United, Real Madrid, and LA Galaxy. His impeccable taste in fashion extends to his collection of watches, which includes some of the most iconic and sophisticated timepieces in the world. Beckham’s choice of watches underscores his enduring influence in both the world of football and fashion.
One of Beckham’s preferred watches is the Tudor Black Bay Chrono, a timepiece that aligns perfectly with his timeless style and elegance. The Tudor Black Bay Chrono is renowned for its sporty yet sophisticated design. Made from stainless steel, it features a 41mm case and a chronograph function, making it both functional and stylish.
Another notable piece in Beckham’s collection is the Rolex Submariner Date, a watch that epitomizes versatility and luxury. The Submariner Date features a 40mm stainless steel case, a unidirectional rotatable bezel, and a black dial with luminescent hour markers. Its robust construction and timeless design make it a favorite among watch enthusiasts and a perfect fit for Beckham’s refined taste.
Beckham is also a fan of the Rolex Sea-Dweller, a watch designed for professional divers but equally suitable for everyday wear. The Sea-Dweller’s 43mm stainless steel case, black dial, and Cerachrom bezel insert in ceramic make it both rugged and stylish. Its helium escape valve and water resistance up to 1,220 meters highlight its technical prowess. Beckham’s choice of the Sea-Dweller reflects his adventurous spirit and his appreciation for high-performance timepieces that can withstand the test of time.
Kylian Mbappé – The Future of Football
Kylian Mbappé, representing the next generation of football superstars, is known for his speed, agility, and forward-thinking approach to the game. Currently playing for Paris Saint-Germain, Mbappé’s choice of watches reflects his modern and innovative style. His watch collection includes some of the most advanced and stylish timepieces, showcasing his appreciation for both luxury and high performance.
One of Mbappé’s standout watches is the Hublot Big Bang Unico, a bold and technologically advanced timepiece, much like Mbappé’s playing style. Featuring a case made from ceramic or carbon fiber, it has a 45mm case size and a skeleton dial that showcases its intricate mechanics.
Mbappé's collection also includes the Hublot Big Bang Millennial Pink, a unique timepiece that embodies contemporary style and forward-thinking design. The 42mm case is made from anodized aluminum in a striking pink hue, symbolizing modernity and inclusivity. The Big Bang Millennial Pink’s bold and unconventional design aligns with Mbappé’s progressive outlook and his status as a young leader in football.
Conclusion
The watches worn by football legends are more than just accessories; they are extensions of their personalities and careers. From the sparkling elegance of Cristiano Ronaldo’s Rolex GMT-Master II “Ice” to the innovative design of Kylian Mbappé’s Hublot Big Bang Unico, these timepieces are symbols of luxury, precision, and style. As we celebrate these icons and their contributions to football, we also appreciate the craftsmanship and artistry of the watches that accompany them on and off the field.
Whether you're a football fan or a watch enthusiast, these legendary pairings of footballers and their timepieces are a testament to the blend of sport and style that continues to captivate the world. Each watch tells a story, just as each player has left an indelible mark on the beautiful game, making these timepieces timeless symbols of their extraordinary journeys.
About CHRONEXT
Founded in 2013, the company based in Zug, Switzerland, is now one of the leading providers of CPO (Certified Pre-Owned) and vintage watches. In addition to its core business in online retail, CHRONEXT now also operates exclusive brick-and-mortar boutiques and lounges in locations around the world such as Hamburg, Munich, Berlin, Zurich and Hong Kong.
CHRONEXT combines the convenience of an online shop with the first-class service of a boutique and supports its customers in all phases of purchasing and owning a luxury watch. Thanks to its hybrid business model, the company can offer its own watches as well as stock from manufacturers, retailers and private sellers, giving it access to a range of over 7,000 models. CHRONEXT is responsible for controlling the entire process, which is ensured by a team of around ten in-house watchmakers. They check each watch in a 17-stage authenticity and quality control process and then issue a 24-month guarantee.
To date, CHRONEXT has helped over 175,000 customers in more than 60 countries to buy and sell their watches.