From the iconic steps of Cannes to the star-studded Gold Gala in Los Angeles, May 2026 has become a masterclass in luxury watch styling. This week, we saw a convergence of sporting excellence and creative flair, as world-class athletes and visionary directors swapped their “tools of the trade” for some of the most sophisticated complications in modern horology.
The Spanish Sensation: Carlos Sainz Jr. in Girard-Perregaux
Formula One driver Carlos Sainz Jr. proved that his taste for precision extends far beyond the cockpit. While attending the 2026 Cannes Film Festival along with his girlfriend, Rebecca Donaldson, Sainz donned the Girard-Perregaux Tourbillon with Three Flying Bridges 44mm Pink Gold Case with 3 Pink Gold Bridges.
This 44mm pink gold masterpiece is a structural marvel. The “Flying Bridges” design moves appear as if it’s floating between sapphire crystals, showcasing a signature GP automatic movement and a discreet white gold micro-rotor. At $180,000 USD, it is a definitive statement of technical innovation—perfect for a man whose life is measured in milliseconds.
The Rainbow Connection: Saquon Barkley in H. Moser & Cie.
In New York City, NFL star Saquon Barkley brought a vibrant edge to the Primark U.S. Flagship Opening on May 6. He was spotted wearing the H. Moser & Cie. Streamliner Skeleton Rainbow 40mm in Steel Case with Skeleton Dial.
The Streamliner is already a cult favorite for its fluid lines and integrated bracelet, but the “Rainbow” iteration elevates the skeletonized movement with a bezel set with multicolored gemstones. Priced at $138,000 USD, it’s a bold choice that mirrors Barkley’s explosive and colorful presence on the field.
Understated Elegance: Januel Mercado in Parmigiani Fleurier
Closing out the highlights, director Januel Mercado attended the Gold Gala in Los Angeles on May 9, wearing the Parmigiani Fleurier Tonda PF Automatic 36mm in Gold with White Grey Dial.
Opting for the 36mm gold model with a warm grey dial, Mercado’s choice reflects a shift toward “quiet luxury.” The Tonda PF is celebrated for its knurled bezel and grain d’Orge guilloché dial—details that scream sophistication to those in the know. This piece retails for approx. $86,960 USD.
The Makers Behind the Masterpieces
Girard-Perregaux: The Architects of Time
Founded in 1791, Girard-Perregaux is one of the oldest names in Swiss watchmaking. They are best known for their “Three Gold Bridges” design—a revolutionary concept dating back to 1867, when it won a gold medal at the Paris Universal Exhibition. This invention turned a movement component into a central work of art. Today, they continue to push boundaries by skeletonizing these bridges, creating the “Flying” aesthetic seen on Carlos Sainz Jr.
