American Presidents and their Rolex watches: A love story for the ages

Written by Anouk Vleugels | 15 January 2025

Rolex has long been synonymous with power, prestige, and legacy – so it’s no wonder these iconic timepieces have graced the wrists of numerous U.S. Presidents. Thanks to President Lyndon B. Johnson, who famously wore a Day-Date during his presidency, this model even earned the nickname “The President.” But Johnson wasn’t the first to bring a Rolex into the White House. Here’s a closer look at the presidents and their timeless connections to this celebrated brand.

Dwight D. Eisenhower: The Pioneer

The story of Rolex in the Oval Office begins with Dwight D. Eisenhower, the 34th President of the United States. In 1951, while serving as NATO Supreme Commander, Eisenhower received a gold Rolex Datejust to mark the production of Rolex’s 150,000th officially certified chronometer. Engraved with his initials “DDE” and five stars representing his military rank, Eisenhower’s watch was more than a timepiece—it accompanied him through pivotal moments in history. It even appeared on the cover of Life magazine, cementing Rolex as a symbol of leadership and excellence.

President Dwight D. Eisenhower, serving from 1953 to 1961

Lyndon B. Johnson: The Rolex Day-Date Legacy

Lyndon B. Johnson, the 36th President, embraced the yellow gold Rolex Day-Date, a model introduced in 1956. Its dual day-and-date display exuded both practicality and luxury, reflecting Johnson’s impactful leadership style. Known for gifting Rolex watches to trusted advisors, Johnson helped cement the Day-Date’s reputation as a timepiece of distinction, further embedding Rolex into the fabric of political power and achievement.

President Lyndon B. Johnson, serving from 1963 to 1969

Gerald Ford: The BYO-Rolex Enthusiast

Gerald Ford, the 38th President, declined the offer of a Rolex Day-Date during his presidency but later purchased one for himself after leaving office. His choice—a gold 36mm Day-Date—underscored the enduring allure of this model. A fun fact: the Day-Date is available only in gold, rose gold, white gold, or platinum. While a few stainless steel prototypes exist, they were never put into production, adding an air of exclusivity to the collection.

President Gerald Ford, serving from 1974 to 1977

Ronald Reagan: The Rolex Cowboy

Ronald Reagan may not have been as publicly associated with Rolex as some of his predecessors, but he owned a stainless steel Rolex Datejust later in life. He was famously photographed wearing the watch post-presidency at his California ranch while chopping wood. It’s a testament to Rolex’s versatility—a watch fit for presidents and cowboys alike.

President Ronald Reagan, serving from 1981 to 1989

Bill Clinton: The Late Bloomer

Bill Clinton, the 42nd President, is known for his eclectic watch collection. He began wearing Rolex after his presidency, favouring a platinum Rolex Day-Date. His wife, Hillary Clinton, also shares his appreciation for the brand, often spotted wearing a two-tone Rolex Lady-Datejust. Together, they’ve become unofficial ambassadors for the timeless appeal of Rolex.

President Bill Clinton, serving from 1993 - 2001

Barack Obama: The Understated Icon

Barack Obama, the 44th President, chose Rolex after leaving office, opting for the refined and understated Rolex Cellini. Known for its sleek design and rich heritage, the Cellini reflects Obama’s leadership style—modern yet steeped in tradition. Whether officiating major events or engaging with the public, Obama’s choice subtly underscores his balance of sophistication and substance.

President Barack Obama, serving from 2009 to 2017

Joe Biden: A Rolex Revival

Joe Biden, the 46th President, brought Rolex back into the spotlight by wearing a stainless steel Rolex Datejust 41mm at his inauguration in January 2021. The striking blue dial symbolised resilience, optimism, and a commitment to democratic values. This fusion of classic design with contemporary style mirrors both Biden’s ethos and Rolex’s enduring appeal.

President Joe Biden, serving from 2021 to 2025

Donald Trump: A Flamboyant Flair for Luxury

Donald Trump, the 45th and 47th President, is known for his love of luxury and has been spotted wearing high-end watches from various brands, including Rolex. His collection features a gold Rolex Day-Date, a natural fit for his penchant for opulence and attention-grabbing style. While less documented, Trump’s connection to Rolex reinforces the brand’s association with success and prestige.

President Donald Trump, serving from 2017 - 2021 and 2025-

The Most Presidential Rolex: Expert Insights

Which Rolex Day-Date is the most presidential? According to watch expert Joaquín Fernández Cébrian, it’s the platinum edition with an ice-blue dial. “Rolex used to only make the Day-Date in 36mm, but now there’s also a 40mm version, which is slightly more modern and arguably better looking. The platinum version with the ice-blue dial is beautiful and quite rare—a true collector’s item,” he explains.

The Day-Date 40 Rolex in platinum, with ice-blue dial

From Eisenhower to Biden, Rolex watches have not only told time but also told stories—of leadership, legacy, and style. With each president adding their unique touch to the brand’s storied history, Rolex remains a timeless symbol of excellence in both horology and history.

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American Presidents and their Rolex watches: A love story for the ages