A Tennis Match Broke Out At A Watch Show

Heavy Wrist Flex At The Open

Forehand Flex

When it comes to watch-spotting, the Oscars and Met Gala may set the tone for red-carpet glamour, but the real action these days is courtside and in the stands. Sporting events like the US Open, Super Bowl, and every other high-profile NBA game have become the new proving ground for serious horological flexing. Unlike black-tie galas where collectors stick to discreet dress pieces, these arenas invite stars to break out their most audacious wristwear. The US Open in particular has emerged as the Super Bowl of watch peacocking, with elegant Cartier’s, grail-level Rolex Daytona’s, and even complicated independents are being spotted not just on celebrities in the crowd but on athletes mid-match. For enthusiasts, it’s a true smorgasbord of Swiss craftsmanship on unapologetic display.

Carlos Alcaraz

Take Steve Carell, for example. He knows that few things command more respect than Rolex’s platinum Daytona. His choice, reference 116506, is one of the world’s most famous racing chronographs reimagined in precious metal. A 40-mm platinum case, matching Oyster bracelet, brown Cerachrom bezel with tachymeter scale, and a signature ice-blue dial set with diamonds make this piece instantly recognizable to those in the know. That particular blue is reserved exclusively for platinum Rolexes, which makes it the ultimate insider flex.

The champions themselves are also upping the ante. Aryna Sabalenka, fresh off her US Open triumph, was spotted accepting her trophy and $5M check with an Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore in rose gold. At roughly $220,000, her choice marries unapologetic luxury with athletic power, its oversized case and integrated bracelet gleaming almost as brightly as her trophy. On the men’s side, Carlos Alcaraz celebrated his win with his own Daytona, a modern classic from Rolex that reinforces the brand’s deep ties to sport, speed, and victory. Between the two, the message is clear: the new generation of champions are every bit as serious about their wristwear as their forehands.

Aryna Sabalenka

And it’s not only about six-figure grails. Rami Malek, Cartier ambassador and Oscar winner, has shown that accessible elegance still plays. His choice? A steel Tank Must with a black dial on a rubber strap. Quartz-powered and retailing for just $3,650, it’s a reminder that not every stylish watch needs to cost as much as a small condo.

From platinum Daytonas to rose gold Offshores, the stadium has officially replaced the ballroom as the ultimate runway for watches.