They say a watch collection says a lot about one’s personality, and that couldn’t be truer for rapper and record executive, Rick Ross. Big, bold, and unapologetically over-the-top, Ross’s treasure trove of multi-million-dollar watches is not only a reflection of his success, but also a signal that he’s not afraid to boast about where his hard work has taken him. “I was just naturally fascinated with timepieces. Then when I saw what they represented, it only made sense,” Ross tells Robb Report in an exclusive video that walks us through a handful of his favorite pieces. “When I walk into a room, everybody knows what time it is without me even sayin’ a word.”
That may sound like hyperbole, but a glimpse into his Louis Vuitton watch case proves Ross has put his money where his mouth is. Inside are a Patek Philippe Nautilus and two Rolex Day-Dates decked to the hilt in diamonds. There’s also an Audemars Piguet Royal Oak in “head-to-toe” emeralds that Ross had made to match his Louis Vuitton sneakers. Some pieces, like the latter, are for fun—beautiful examples of Swiss watchmaking, craftsmanship, and gem setting. Others, such as his diamond-accented Hublot Big Bang, are personal. Ross says the timepiece was a gift from Dr. Dre on his birthday a few years ago. Meanwhile, a custom Jacob & Co. The Mystery Tourbillon reflects a collector aiming for technical prowess and high-wattage showmanship. Jacob Arabov, Jacob & Co.’s owner, also gave Ross a $120,000 Epic X Chrono Tourbillon in blue titanium which the rapper says he plans to wear on the beach.
But behind all the bravado is a passionate collector who says he has been collecting since he was a kid and has just as much love for G-Shock as he does for his six- and seven-figure watches. Watch Ross as he shares his mind-blowing wrist candy with us.
Correction, March 28, 2024: In earlier version of this story Robb Report misidentified one of Rick Ross’s watches as the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Selfwinding 50th Anniversary edition in emeralds. It is an Audemars Piguet Royal Oak that has been encrusted with emeralds.
