Indian celebrities are serious about their luxury watches, with collectors like Shah Rukh Khan, Salman Khan, and Sanjay Dutt owning rare pieces, but experts say Anant Ambani has the most impressive collection in India.
Shah Rukh Khan’s Iconic Timepiece
When Shah Rukh Khan made his Met Gala debut in 2025, his all-black Sabyasachi suit wasn’t the only talking point. His choice of wristwatch, a Patek Philippe Grand Complications 6300G, truly stole the show.
According to Karan Vaidya from luxury jewellery brand Rose, this state-of-the-art watch retailed for an astonishing USD 2.5 million, which translates to approximately Rs 21 crore. Its value in the secondary market is reportedly even higher, cementing SRK’s status as a top-tier collector.
Inside Bollywood’s Elite Watch Collections
Beyond the “King of Bollywood,” other stars also boast remarkable collections. Salman Khan, for instance, owns a Patek Philippe minute repeater that is fully studded with sapphires, highlighting his taste for rare gems and intricate mechanisms.
Sanjay Dutt is often referred to as the “OG watch collector” in the industry, possessing exceptional pieces like a Roger Dubuis Dual Tourbillon and a distinctive Rolex Leopard. Ranbir Kapoor and Ranveer Singh are also noted for their impressive array of timepieces.
However, Vaidya asserts that among all Indians, Mukesh and Nita Ambani’s son, Anant Ambani, holds the most unparalleled watch collection. Indian celebrities are increasingly moving beyond common luxury watches to acquire truly unique, one-of-a-kind pieces.
The ‘Holy Trinity’ of Watchmaking
Many assume Rolex is part of the most exclusive group in watchmaking, but experts clarify that it’s not. The revered “Holy Trinity of Watches” includes Audemars Piguet, Vacheron Constantin, and Patek Philippe – brands celebrated for their exceptional craftsmanship and horological innovations.
Why Luxury Watches Are Harder to Find in India
Despite the growing interest, many foreign luxury watch brands face challenges selling in India. This is primarily due to the country’s high duty and tax structure on imported watches.
India imposes a 22 percent duty on wristwatches, one of the highest globally, compared to less than 5 percent in places like Singapore and Dubai. On top of this, there’s an 18 percent GST, and an additional 1 percent TCS (Tax Collected at Source) on transactions for watches costing over Rs 10 lakh.
Product Placement: Hollywood vs. Bollywood
Product placement in films and shows is a strategic marketing tool. In Hollywood, this is meticulously planned, as seen with James Bond consistently wearing Omega watches, leading to special edition releases with each new film.
While less common in Bollywood, examples exist, such as the series “Made in Heaven” partnering with Bvlgari to feature their products. When a luxury item is specifically tailored to a character or storyline, its visibility and appeal tend to soar.
- Shah Rukh Khan’s Met Gala watch was a Patek Philippe Grand Complications 6300G, valued at Rs 21 crore.
- Anant Ambani is considered to have India’s best watch collection, featuring truly unique pieces.
- The “Holy Trinity” of watches includes Audemars Piguet, Vacheron Constantin, and Patek Philippe, not Rolex.
- High import duties and taxes (22% duty, 18% GST) make luxury watches significantly more expensive in India.
The world of luxury watches among Indian celebrities is clearly thriving, showcasing both an appreciation for fine craftsmanship and a keen eye for investment.
