What is the most expensive diamond-crusted watch? Graff Diamonds Hallucination will not only tell you the time, but how the super rich splurge money. The $55-million watch has a platinum bracelet and embellished with over 110 carats in colored diamonds. If you can’t afford the price, how about the “cheaper” alternatives on our list of the most expensive diamond-crusted watches in the world this 2025?
- Graff Diamonds Hallucination – $55 Million
- Graff Diamonds The Fascination – $40 Million
- Chopard 201-Carat Watch – $25 Million
- Jacob & Co. Billionaire Watch – $18 Million
- Hublot’s Big Bang Watch – $5 Million
- Piaget Emperador Temple – $3.5 Million
- Cartier Secret Phoenix Watch – $2.7 Million
- Blancpain Tourbillon Diamants – $1.8 Million
- Vacheron Constantin Kalla Lune – $800,000
- Chanel J12 Haute Joaillerie – $700,000
You may say time is eternity. We also know that diamonds are forever. So what would you choose if you had the option: an abundance of time or a bag of precious gems? If you had the moolah to spare, you can get the best of both worlds by opting to invest in a luxury diamond-encrusted watch.
The global watch market is dominated by Switzerland and china. Chinese watches are suitable for lower-end buyers, while the wealthy can opt for high-end Swiss watches. Millennials are a big market for luxury watches. Statista.com reports that in a 2017 survey, about 70% of global millennials admitted to owning at least a single conventional analog watch. In fact, they prefer luxury watches over trendy smartwatches.
Finance.yahoo.com reveals that the global luxury watch market is set to exceed $57 billion by the year 2021. The men’s segment dominates this market with a share of about 64%. The global luxury watch market is driven by factors such as strong branding and brand positioning, consumer interest in fashion trends, and premiumization through innovative product design.
Now, let’s get down to business and take a close look at the top 10 most expensive diamond-encrusted watches that money can buy in 2025.
10. Chanel J12 Haute Joaillerie – $700,000
This magnum opus hosts 597 baguette diamonds that decorate its face. The indexes, bracelet, and dial are made from scratch-proof, high-grade ceramic which enhances the diamonds’ allure and brilliance. You can opt to buy this fine timepiece in black or white color. Both choices guarantee the highest elegance and class, so your $7k investment is well worth it.
The 597 diamonds are set in 18-karat white gold. The case, bezel, dial, and bracelet are embellished in more than 32 carats of diamonds. The makers took 1,400 hours to cut the diamonds and more than a year to finish this beautiful creation. The end result is a fascinating blend between blinged up details and refinement. This Chanel watch model is based on the high-quality setting techniques crafted in the workshops of La Chaux-de-Fonds in Switzerland.
9. Vacheron Constantin Kalla Lune – $800,000
A fine watch that veers away from traditional models as it exudes daring and sophistication. It is adorned with one rose-cut diamond for the crown, 23 brilliant-cut diamonds, and 826 baguette-cut diamonds. The face of the dial features moon phase and power reserve indicators and is decorated with 170 baguette diamonds. All the diamonds are set in 18k gold. Apart from the white gems, the watch also has 22 rubies. Its strap is made of fine alligator leather.
All the diamonds in the Vacheron Constantin Kalla Lune add up to a total weight of about 42.61 carats. Each diamond conforms to the strictest standards of cut, color, and purity to ensure perfect harmonization. On the dial, the large model is embellished with 170 baguettes (2.82 carats), while the small model showcases 141 brilliants (0.36 carat). Both models have a crown adorned with a rose-cut diamond. This masterwork is hand-decorated and hand-finished, and stamped with the redoubtable Geneva Hallmark.
8. Blancpain Tourbillon Diamants – $1.8 Million
A total of 480 baguette-cut diamonds embellish this skillfully crafted timepiece, with the gems crusting the case, bezel, and bracelet. The diamonds are encrusted like a brick wall inside the dial and in the bracelet. On top of that, the glass in the watch face is crafted from high-grade sapphire crystal. The bracelet and case are fashioned from white gold. However, it is tough to get a unit of this magnum opus as it is only available on request.
A notable feature of the Blancpain Tourbillon is it has a self-winding function with a seven-day power reserve. This watch is so fully encrusted with diamonds that you can hardly see its actual setting elements, bracelet, and white-gold case. In addition, this master timepiece is water resistant up to 100m. The 480 diamonds add up to an amazing total of 58 carats. The design is eye-catching too as the baguettes are asymmetrically laid out like pavement slabs on a Parisian courtyard. Despite the lavish excess, this beauty is indeed a work of subtlety.
7. Cartier Secret Phoenix Watch – $2.7 Million
Brave, bold, and out of box, this fine Cartier piece is difficult to describe. The exquisitely designed phoenix hides the dial, which makes the timepiece look like a bracelet. The phoenix’s eyes are encrusted with precious emeralds. In addition, a total of 3,010 brilliant diamonds are set in 18-karat white gold plated with rhodium.
The Carter Secret Phoenix Watch is clustered with 80.13 carats of diamonds including a pear-shaped, portrait-cut stone that weighs 3.53 carats. Needless to say, this astounding example of fine jewelry and watchmaking transcends time. Legend has it that the phoenix rises from its own ashes, but this bird has turned out to be ultra-glamorous.
6. Piaget Emperador Temple – $3.5 Million
One emerald-cut diamond, 207 baguette-cut diamonds, and 481 brilliant-cut diamonds adorn this exceptional timepiece. 360 diamonds are paved on the bracelet and the rest are set on the watch’s dial and bezel. What adds to the fascination is the presence of a secret watch below the first one. Open this hidden piece and view 11-baguette cut diamonds and 161 brilliant-cut diamonds shining from the inside.
A total of 1,211 diamonds of various cuts embellish the Piaget Emerador Temple. 690 diamonds adorn the case while 173 precious white stones encrust the white pearl dial. In addition, this fine artwork contains a precise watch mechanism, a tourbillon to ensure the greatest precision.
5. Hublot’s Big Bang Watch – $5 Million
This manly watch from Hublot was crafted over 14 months by 12 master cutters and five stone cutters. All the 1,282 diamonds were carefully chosen to match the concept and design of the Big Bang. This magnum opus is truly one of its kind in the world and it was gifted by pop superstar Beyonce to her husband Jay-Z for his 43th birthday.
Jay-Z is a noted watch collector and always wears a dazzling wrist watch at his events. He switched allegiance from the Audemars Piguet watch brand to rival Hublot and started sporting their glamorous timepieces. For this reason, Hublot’s chairman invited Jay-Z to tour their watch-making facility in Switzerland. Coming back to the $5 million Hublot Big Bang Watch, all 1,282 diamonds utilized are graded Top Wesslton in color and A VVS in clarity, guaranteeing the best quality. Finally, the watch is powered by Hublot’s HUB 1100 automatic movement that boasts a 42-hour power supply and features 65 jewels.
4. Jacob & Co. Billionaire Watch – $18 Million
This Jacob and Co. masterwork has been nicknamed the Billionaire Watch for sound reason. If you can shell out the $18 million, you’ll get a seriously luxurious watch that has a stylish skeleton face and is embellished with 260 carats of emerald-cut diamonds.
Jacob & Co. owner Jacob Arabo says this product is a truly unique and one-of-a-kind piece, but admits that other companies can also create a similar watch by using different gemstones. Three main factors mark this beauty: the movement, the diamonds, and the affiliation with the company Billionaire Lifestyle SARL that adds the word “Billionaire” to the watch. Each of the diamonds in the timepiece is GIA-certified and some stones weigh up to 3 carats. The movement offers 72 hours of power reserve and is made up of 19 jewels and 167 components. Finally, the back of the watch is adorned with the logo of the Billionaire brand.
3. Chopard 201-Carat Watch – $25 Million
This incredible timepiece is worth $25 million because it is adorned with an 11-carat white diamond, 12-carat blue diamond, and 15-carat pink diamond, and a further 163 carats of yellow and white diamonds.
Chopard is a noted luxury watch maker that has production sites in Pforzheim, Germany, and Fleurier and Geneva in Switzerland. In addition, Chopard USA has boutiques in Beverly Hills, New York City, Old San Juan in Puerto Rico, and Palm Beach, Florida. The Chopard 201-carat watch hosts 874 diamonds. This simple yet exquisite timepiece seems like it is surrounded by flower petals. Just for fun, over 600 yellow diamonds are encrusted alongside about 91 colorless diamonds. Not surprisingly, extreme security is maintained during manufacture and the product is delivered to the high net worth buyer under a tight security cover comprising four layers.
2. Graff Diamonds The Fascination – $40 Million
Holding second place in our list of most expensive diamond-encrusted watches is Graff Diamonds’ The Fascination timepiece that commands an astounding $40 million. The reason: this masterwork hosts 152.96 carats of white diamonds including a center, pear-shaped, 38.13 carat diamond that detaches into a ring.
The diamonds have been cut and polished by the maker Graff at their facilities. The highlight of the watch is the pear-shaped masterpiece that can be detached and worn as a ring or used as a watch dial on a finely designed diamond bracelet. The bracelet holding the watch is a skillful work of gem setting and metallurgy. In short, this astounding diamond bracelet is convertible and comfortable. Graff Diamonds reveals they produced this “very daring” timepiece to demonstrate the close working relationship between the company’s UK-based diamond house and its Switzerland-based watch making facility.
1. Graff Diamonds Hallucination – $55 Million
Graff Diamonds also holds the record for the most expensive diamond-encrusted watch, an astronomical $55 million for the amazing Hallucination. This magnum opus has a platinum bracelet and is embellished with more than 110 carats of colored diamonds including yellow, orange, green, blue, and pink.
Natural colored diamonds are very valuable and rare compared to white diamonds. On the Hallucination, the combination of different colored diamonds creates a stunning rainbow effect. Diamond watches are usually encrusted with brilliant and baguette cut diamonds, but Graff has embellished this beauty with a mix of round cut, emerald marquise, pear, and heart shaped diamonds. The ingenious platinum setting generates the impression that the gemstones are seamlessly held together. This exquisite ladies watch was produced over thousands of hours by an expert designer, gemologists, and a squad of master craftsmen. The end result is a stunning artwork that is truly inimitable and distinctive.
How to choose the right luxury watch?
Selecting the perfect luxury watch involves carefully considering various factors to ensure it meets your needs and style. Here are some essential tips to help you make an informed decision:
- Determine Your Budget: Before diving into your search, establish a budget. Luxury watches come in a wide range of prices, so knowing your spending limit will help narrow down your options without overspending.
- Identify Your Style: Consider your style and the occasions you plan to wear the watch. Do you prefer classic elegance, sporty functionality, or contemporary design? Matching the watch’s aesthetic with your wardrobe will ensure you wear it often.
- Choose the Right Features: Think about what features are essential for you. Do you need a chronograph, water resistance, or a specific type of movement (automatic, quartz, or manual)? Make a list of must-have features to guide your choice.
- Research Brands: Familiarize yourself with reputable luxury watch brands, such as Rolex, Omega, and Cartier. Each brand has its own unique qualities, heritage, and reputation. Researching these brands can help you understand their craftsmanship and resale value.
- Consider Size and Fit: A watch’s size and fit are crucial for comfort and style. Pay attention to the watch case size and band length. Trying on different styles will help you find the perfect fit for your wrist.
- Think Long-Term: A luxury watch is often a long-term investment. Consider how it will hold up over time regarding durability, style, and value. Classic designs tend to age well, while trendy styles may not have the same longevity.
Key Insights
- Luxury Market Dominance: Switzerland leads the luxury watch market, catering to high-end buyers, while China dominates the lower-end segment.
- Rising Popularity Among Millennials: Despite the trend towards smartwatches, luxury analog watches remain popular among millennials, with 70% owning at least one.
- Strong Market Growth: The global luxury watch market is projected to exceed $57 billion by 2021, driven by strong branding, consumer interest in fashion trends, and innovative product design.
- Top-Tier Investment: The most expensive watches, such as Graff Diamonds Hallucination ($55 million) and Graff Diamonds The Fascination ($40 million), showcase the extreme lengths to which wealth can be displayed through timepieces.
- Exquisite Craftsmanship: These high-end watches feature meticulous craftsmanship, with thousands of hours spent on cutting, polishing, and assembling diamonds and other precious materials.
- Significant Value in Diamonds: Watches like the Jacob & Co. Billionaire Watch ($18 million) and Chopard 201-Carat Watch ($25 million) highlight the use of significant carats of diamonds, including rare colored diamonds, contributing to their exorbitant prices.
- High Demand for Unique Designs: Unique and custom designs, such as the Cartier Secret Phoenix Watch and Piaget Emperador Temple, attract affluent buyers looking for distinctive timepieces.
- Exclusive Availability: Many of these luxury watches are available only on request, emphasizing their exclusivity and the personalized service offered by high-end watchmakers.
FAQ
- What makes diamond-encrusted watches so expensive? Diamond-encrusted watches are expensive due to the high value of the diamonds used, the meticulous craftsmanship involved in cutting and setting the gems, and the exclusivity and branding of the watchmakers.
- Which is the most expensive diamond-encrusted watch in 2024? The most expensive diamond-encrusted watch in 2024 is the Graff Diamonds Hallucination, priced at $55 million.
- Why are Swiss watches considered the best in the world? Swiss watches are renowned for their exceptional quality, precision, craftsmanship, and innovation in watchmaking. They have a long history and tradition of excellence in the industry.
- Are luxury watches a good investment? Luxury watches can be a good investment as they often retain or increase in value over time, especially those from reputable brands and with unique designs or limited editions.
- What are some features of the Graff Diamonds Hallucination watch? The Graff Diamonds Hallucination watch features a platinum bracelet and is embellished with over 110 carats of colored diamonds, including yellow, orange, green, blue, and pink diamonds.
- Who are the typical buyers of these expensive watches? Typical buyers of these expensive watches are affluent individuals, collectors, and investors who value exclusivity, luxury, and the craftsmanship of high-end timepieces.
- How do luxury watchmakers ensure the quality of their diamonds? Luxury watchmakers ensure the quality of their diamonds by using high-grade diamonds with excellent cut, color, and clarity, often certified by reputable institutions like GIA.
- What is unique about the Jacob & Co. Billionaire Watch? The Jacob & Co. Billionaire Watch is unique for its stylish skeleton face, 260 carats of emerald-cut diamonds, and affiliation with the Billionaire Lifestyle SARL, adding the “Billionaire” brand to the watch.
- Why do millennials prefer luxury analog watches over smartwatches? Millennials prefer luxury analog watches over smartwatches due to the craftsmanship, prestige, and timeless appeal of luxury watches, as well as their status as symbols of wealth and success.
- What are some examples of luxury watch brands that create diamond-encrusted watches? Examples of luxury watch brands that create diamond-encrusted watches include Graff Diamonds, Chopard, Jacob & Co., Hublot, Piaget, Cartier, and Blancpain.
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I have almost all of these but i really love my casio timer piece best
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