Mark Zuckerberg is a Watch Guy

Witnessing the rapid creation of an extraordinary watch collection, where money was no object

Dec 21, 2024

Many watch enthusiasts may indulge in the game of fantasy watch picks at least once or twice during their collecting journey. This year, we witnessed the real-life creation of an incredible watch collection in record time, where money was no object. As a reader of this humble newsletter, you’ve probably guessed I’m referring to Mark Zuckerberg, the founder and CEO of Meta.

It’s widely believed that Zuckerberg caught the watch bug earlier this year while attending the pre-wedding party of billionaire heir Anant Ambani. Shortly after, he began appearing on social media and at public events sporting some remarkable timepieces.

Was it just a passing fascination? Many watch lovers wondered. By year’s end, the answer was a resounding no. Not only has Zuckerberg continued to expand his collection, but he’s also displayed a wonderfully diverse taste in watches.

The All-New Patek Philippe Cubitus Grand Date Ref: 5822P-001

This appears to be a very recent acquisition, as the model was just launched on October 17 this year. Despite watch community’s fairly negative sentiment towards the release, pre-owned market prices of this model are showing 50% to 70% markup above the retail price. Expectations for Patek Philippe’s brand-new collection were exceptionally high, thus some folks were disappointed. However, when judged on its own merits, this watch holds its ground.

The complications include a big date displayed through a double aperture, the day of the week indicated by a hand, and moon phases—features that make it practical for daily wear. The movement consists of 353 parts and operates at 3Hz, showcasing a sophisticated caliber.

Zuckerberg likely appreciates the latest and greatest, much like in the tech industry.

The Patek Philippe In-line Perpetual Calendar Ref: 5236P-010

See Zuckerberg’s reply in the comment area. Source: Link

This may be the first heavy hitter Zuckerberg was spotted wearing—a truly magnificent start. The Ref. 5236P is the latest perpetual calendar from Patek Philippe, celebrated for its innovative in-line display of the day, date, and month. The first model, featuring a blue dial, debuted in 2021, while the second, with a salmon dial, was introduced earlier this year. Zuckerberg opted for the newest offering.

The ingenious movement design becomes even more impressive when viewed from the dial side. The dial incorporates a total of seven discs, with four dedicated solely to the in-line display. The movement boasts an astounding 503 parts while maintaining a remarkably slim profile of just 5.8mm.

As part of Patek Philippe’s prestigious Grand Complications Collection—need we say more?

Bvlgari Octo Finissimo Ultra COSC - Limited Edition of 20 Pieces

The race for the title of the world’s thinnest mechanical watch has been fiercely contested in recent years by Bvlgari, Richard Mille, and Piaget. Earlier this year, Bvlgari reclaimed the crown with the Octo Finissimo Ultra COSC, featuring an astonishing 1.70mm case thickness, narrowly surpassing the 1.75mm thickness of the Richard Mille RM UP-01.

Adding to its allure, this groundbreaking model is COSC-certified, an unprecedented achievement at such an extreme thinness. Limited to just 20 pieces, each watch carries a price tag exceeding $600K.

Zuckerberg clearly appreciates a winner, and it wouldn’t be surprising to see him showcasing this extraordinary timepiece on his Instagram feed. The ultra-thin watch suits his wrist remarkably well.

De Bethune DB25 Starry Varius

Zuckerberg showcased his appreciation for independent watchmaking by wearing the exquisite De Bethune DB25 Starry Varius to an interview. The high-end Swiss brand is renowned for its avant-garde designs and the use of unconventional materials.

As the name suggests, the DB25 Starry Varius embodies celestial beauty and diversity, offering the unique option to personalize the night sky motif based on a specific date and location. Having your own view of the sky on your wrist—this is the ultimate luxury.

Author trying a different model of DB25 Starry Varius at a De Bethune Boutique

F.P.Journe Chronomètre Souverain Havana Ref. CS

The iconic dial layout, unique light chocolate color, and slim case profile make the F.P. Journe Chronomètre Souverain Havana instantly recognizable. From Zuckerberg’s Instagram feed, it’s clear this is one of his favorite watches. And the watch fits his wrist beautifully.

While this is by far the least expensive watch in Zuckerberg’s collection, it remains an elegant piece, featuring a gold movement engineered for top chronometric performance. What a wonderful choice!

F.P.Journe Centigraphe Sport Aluminium Ref: CTS

Zuckerberg is a highly active individual, passionate about strength training, martial arts, running, and even surfing. It’s no surprise, then, that he gravitates toward top-tier sports watches. He was recently seen wearing an F.P. Journe Centigraphe Sport Aluminium at a product event—an obvious and fantastic choice.

Introduced 10 years ago, this timepiece was the first model in F.P. Journe’s Linesport collection. It’s a chronograph capable of measuring 1/100 of a second. To reduce the watch’s weight, the case and bracelet are crafted from aluminum alloy with rubber inserts.

This particular piece is a first-generation model, as the newer versions, introduced after 2018, feature titanium cases and bracelets without the rubber inserts. It seems Zuckerberg acquired this watch in pre-owned condition.

H. Moser & Cie Streamliner Tourbillon Skeleton

In his latest Instagram video, Zuckerberg was seen driving an all-terrain vehicle (ATV) at high speed through an off-road environment. He was wearing a new watch, and based on the signature bracelet design, it was unmistakably a Moser Streamliner.

But which model? Wait, the dial was openworked. That could only mean it was the Streamliner Tourbillon Skeleton—an incredibly stunning piece. Built around Moser’s flying tourbillon movement, the design eliminates all unnecessary materials from the gears. What’s revealed, both front and back, is a micro-mechanical marvel. “Very rare,” as the brand’s tagline proudly states.

It’s the ultimate sports watch to complement some off-road fun!

Summary

There you have it—seven watches from Zuckerberg’s ever-expanding collection. While I’m sure I’ve missed a few, we can still derive some insights from his choices.

First and foremost, Zuckerberg seems to enjoy high complications, from perpetual calendars and tourbillons to 1/100-second chronographs. He also appreciates the finest in horology, as seen in pieces like the ultra-thin Octo Finissimo and the openworked Streamliner.

Though he favors sports watches, reflecting his active lifestyle, he also has a taste for fine dress watches, such as the Chronomètre Souverain and the Starry Varius. He’s definitely drawn to the latest and greatest, with several 2024 novelties already in his collection.

It’s truly wonderful to see Zuckerberg not only wearing and enjoying his watches but also sharing his new hobby with the world. He’s a great, genuine ambassador for the brands he owns, and I can’t wait to see what future timepieces he adds to his collection.