Image from Unsplash/Kateryna Hliznitsova
Cover Spot these fine watches at Tatler Ball Philippines 2024 (Photo: Unsplash / Kateryna Hliznitsova)
Image from Unsplash/Kateryna Hliznitsova

There’s always a story behind one’s favourite or go-to watch. Ahead of Tatler Ball 2024, we asked some of our esteemed guests what might we spot on their wrists come Saturday evening and what stories they hold

The Tatler Ball is almost upon us once more. The stage is set, the ballroom adorned, and the anticipation for the charitable evening’s festivities is palpable. It seems the only thing left to do is roll out the red carpet and usher our magnanimous patrons in.

Read more: A closer look at Tatler Ball 2024’s auction lineup

Yes, the night is fun and glamorous, but it’s also so much more. At its core, our much-awaited anniversary event has always served as a platform for goodwill and community—and this year, the pledges it generates will directly benefit the lives of children through ConnectEd: Tech for All by Her Legacy Project. Our guests definitely value substance over style, and this is likewise revealed by their taste in timepieces.

Ahead of the main event tomorrow, we had the privilege of asking some of our dear friends about the timepieces they’ve chosen to accompany them to the Tatler Ball 2024.

Ben Chan

I’ll be wearing my Patek Philippe Nautilus watch in rose gold. It’s elegant but sporty at the same time.

I’ll be wearing it with barong as I prefer to do in most formal occasions. The barong is by Joey Samson and is made of handmade Aklan piña in a natural colour so the Nautilus will be a good complement to its colour.

Don't miss: The World of Ben Chan: This visionary in Philippine retail recalls the significant milestones of Bench

Franco Laurel

Tatler Asia
Franco Laurel
Above Franco Laurel
Tatler Asia
Rolex Cosmograph Daytona Meteorite Dial in White Gold (Photo: Courtesy of Franco Laurel)
Above Rolex Cosmograph Daytona Meteorite Dial in White Gold (Photo: Courtesy of Franco Laurel)
Franco Laurel
Rolex Cosmograph Daytona Meteorite Dial in White Gold (Photo: Courtesy of Franco Laurel)

I will be wearing my Rolex Cosmograph Daytona Meteorite Dial in White Gold. This timepiece is very special to me as it was given by my wife on my birthday almost two decades ago. It remains to be one of my favourite watches in my collection for sentimental reasons and also for its timeless elegance.

I will wear my watch to compliment my Paul Smith suit and Jojie Lloren barong bib, along with my favourite rings.

Duday Tuason

Tatler Asia
A gorgeous vintage Cartier Baignoire (Photo: Courtesy of Duday Tuason)
Above Duday's gorgeous vintage Cartier Baignoire (Photo: Courtesy of Duday Tuason)
Tatler Asia
Duday with her husband Noel Tuason at last year's Tatler Ball
Above Duday with her husband Noel Tuason at last year's Tatler Ball
A gorgeous vintage Cartier Baignoire (Photo: Courtesy of Duday Tuason)
Duday with her husband Noel Tuason at last year's Tatler Ball

I’ll be wearing a vintage yellow gold Cartier Baignoire that I purchased almost two decades ago. I’ve always loved the ladylike elegance of Cartier watches and how their typically smaller sizes fit my wrist.

The gown Rajo Laurel made for me is a mix of modern and retro style, and I thought this watch, which was designed in 1912, would lend some timeless elegance to the outfit. I also think the curves of the watch echo the scalloped edges on my vintage gold and diamond handbag made by Van Cleef & Arpels in the 1960s.

See also: Get to know Jet Acuzar and the Cartier timepieces she loves wearing

Z Teo

The Patek Philippe Calatrava is a classic and elegant watch, known for its minimalist design and timeless appeal. It was first introduced in the 1930s and has since become an iconic model for those who appreciate understated luxury.

This Calatrava holds special meaning for me, as it was passed down from my father. The watch represents not only his impeccable taste in craftsmanship but also the values he instilled in me—appreciating quality, tradition, and attention to detail. Wearing it feels like carrying a part of him with me, especially on important occasions like the Tatler Ball.

I’ll be pairing the Calatrava with a classic tuxedo to match its refined, timeless appeal. Its understated design and polished finish add just the right touch of elegance without overpowering the look. The watch’s vintage charm ties in perfectly with my outfit, making it a subtle yet meaningful accessory for the evening.

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Mac Fabella
Contributing Writer, Tatler Philippines
Tatler Asia

Trained as a student journalist, Mac’s knack for writing was a serendipitous discovery. Years later and she can’t imagine doing anything else. When she isn’t typing away on a story, she revels in being lost in a new city, revisiting a cosy film or sitcom, and idling away with her dogs.