Cover Luxury watches and fashion accessories continue to be regarded as status symbols for distinguished gentlemen
Luxury watches and fashion accessories continue to be regarded as status symbols for distinguished gentlemen
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For men of the upper class, their belongings—from a timepiece to a rare vintage bottle of wine—serve as status symbols of their lifestyle and standing.
Their status is not measured by fleeting luxury trends, but by cultivated preferences, meaningful experiences and the emotional significance attached to the objects they choose to own. For men of influence, be they politicians, tech moguls, music legends or actors, each carefully selected item serves as a subtle yet powerful extension of their identity. These possessions, far from mere displays of wealth, speak to personal narratives and refined taste. From the diamond pin Jeff Bezos wore to the 2025 Vanity Fair Oscar Party to the sunglasses seen on Andrew Garfield at the 2025 Oscars, every piece tells a story uniquely their own.
Watches and other high-end fashion accessories
Timepieces have long served as enduring status symbols of power and prestige. According to Dr Cathrine Jansson-Boyd, a consumer psychology expert at Anglia Ruskin University, a fine watch makes an impression with its craftsmanship, materials, price point and design. Since the 1950s, influential men have rarely been seen without impeccably made watches on their wrists; among them, former US Presidents Harry Truman and John F. Kennedy.
Today, watches remain essential in the wardrobes of many powerful figures. Bernard Arnault, CEO of LVMH, favours the Tiffany Patek Philippe 5740, valued at $6.5 million, while Meta founder Mark Zuckerberg is known to wear the Patek Philippe Grand Complications Minute Repeater 5303R-001, priced at $1.5 million.
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Beyond timepieces, accessories have found new prominence. Actors such as Robert Downey Jr. and Andrew Garfield frequently attend events in vibrant sunglasses. Other fashion elements, such as Loewe’s Puzzle bags or Chrome Hearts jewellery, have also become signature pieces for male celebrities and influential gentlemen alike.
Supercars and limited-edition sports accessories
As with watches, rare and expensive supercars often hold irresistible appeal. For many, these vehicles aren’t merely modes of transport but objets d’art, requiring bespoke garages and meticulous care.
Among the most notable status symbol collectors is Cristiano Ronaldo, who owns a vast fleet that includes the $9 million Bugatti Centodieci, alongside other models from Ferrari, Rolls-Royce and McLaren. Ralph Lauren, too, possesses a legendary collection valued at around $600 million, with standout models such as the Bugatti Type 57SC Atlantic, a 1930 Mercedes-Benz SSK, and a 1998 McLaren F1 LM.
Learn more: Rolex on the speedway: What to expect from the synergy between watches and racing?
In addition to supercars, some gentlemen indulge in collecting rare sports memorabilia. Gold-plated, handcrafted golf clubs from Honma or Bentley Golf, racing helmets of F1 legends, and autographed balls or jerseys are all considered prized additions.
A collection of rare works of art
For upper-class men, art is more than decoration: it is an extension of self. These works reflect their worldview, inner contemplations and sense of beauty. Art can also be a source of comfort or inspiration in moments of stillness.
Steve Cohen, founder of Point72 Asset Management and owner of the New York Mets, is renowned for his billion-dollar collection of status symbols that span genres and eras. Highlights include Van Gogh’s Young Peasant Woman, Gauguin’s Bathers, Munch’s Madonna, Police Gazette, and de Kooning’s Woman III.
Another notable name is Charles Saatchi, co-founder of the Saatchi & Saatchi advertising agency. For over twenty years, he has supported contemporary artists while curating a striking collection, which includes status symbols from Donald Judd, Sol LeWitt, Anselm Kiefer, Andy Warhol and Julian Schnabel. His passion led to the founding of the Saatchi Gallery in London.
Ultimately, a gentleman’s status is not solely reflected in what he owns, but in how those possessions align with his aesthetic judgement and individuality. After all, true class is not flaunted. It is rather embodied in the determined assurance of personal style and substance.
