It only takes one Migos track to hear references to Rollies, Audemars, Patek Philippe, and Richard Mille timepieces. With the growing popularity of hip-hop in fashion culture, the importance of luxury watches has expanded to a younger demographic. Typically luxury watches were exclusive to successful businessmen, but in the current state of "flexing” pieces such as the Rolex Presidential, Audemars Piguet Royal Oak, Patek Phillipe Nautilus, or any Richard Mille for that matter has been popular among rappers, athletes, influencers, and well fuccbois. However, having a luxury timepiece isn't just about flexing, it has a lot of sentimental value and it is something that will literally last a lifetime. We know what you are probably thinking... "I can barely afford to maintain my jawn copping addiction, much less spend 10 racks on a watch." This isn't an article saying "go cop right away," but it is definitely meant to expose you to some of the most luxury watch brands in the world. Similarly to clothing, watches represent a particular status, wealth, and personal interests. Although they are a handsome investment, you will wear it almost every day for a very extended time period and it is the perfect finishing touch to a fire fit. 

Rolex

Rolex's Jubilee bracelet, case shape, and crown emblem have made Rolex one of the most identifiable watches in the entire world. The Swiss-based company was founded in 1905 and has been the watch choice of James Bond, Roger Federer, and plenty of other A-list celebrities throughout their history. What makes Rolex one of the most appealing of the luxury watches is that it is at an entry-level price point compared to most of the other watches on this list and it has a strong universal brand identity. A stainless steel Datejust (brand new) will run you about $9,400, which is a big investment in a timepiece, but in a sense, it is the most "bang for your buck." No matter what, everyone can respect and appreciate and nice Rolex watch. Some of the most popular Rolex models include the Datejust, the Day-Date, Submariner, GMT, Explorer, and the Daytona.

Audemars Piguet Royal Oak

Audemars Piguet's "Royal Oak" model was unveiled in 1972 and has remained one of the most popular watch shapes of all time. The octagonal face, the exposed screws on the bezel, and the brushed steel bracelet are just some of the features that make the Royal Oak one of the most sought-after watches on the market. Typically worn in rose gold & stainless steel, the Royal Oak fetches anywhere from $16,000 to upwards of $50,000 depending on size, metal, and other details. One of the best variations of the Royal Oak definitely has to be the "skeleton" design, which features a fully exposed look at the entire self-winding movement of the watch (featured above).  

Patek Phillippe Nautilus

Patek Phillippe was founded in 1839 and has been producing some of the most sought after timepieces in the world. The Patek Phillippe Nautilus, in particular, has become a popular model among rappers because of its full stainless steel bracelet and unique case shape. Now a Patek Phillippe is quite the step up from a Rolex, typically ranging anywhere from $38,000-$150,000 depending on the model plus inflation due to resale value. Patek Phillippe makes amazing watches that are a major flex while maintaining a very clean aesthetic.

Richard Mille

Probably the “ugliest” of the watches featured here, but a Richard Mille timepiece is literally like wearing a Ferrari on your wrist. Typically starting around $80,000 but can quickly go up to a couple million depending on the parameters of the watch... Like what the fuck, why would any watch cost this much and why would anyone buy one? Well, the answer is that they are bought because not many people can buy them. This is by far the most unattainable watch for those who aren’t dripping cash. What makes a Richard Mille so expensive is the triple-level case, exquisitely placed timekeeping mechanisms, and well because they can command that price. Mr. Richard Mille is a huge fan of motorsports, and he definitely made that a big part of his brand ideology. Each Richard Mille watch is like a well-oiled supercar that is sharp and precise. I myself don’t fully understand the appeal based on looks, but when it gets to the point of a watch costing more than 10x the average American’s annual salary, it is totally about flexing your socioeconomic class.