Her eyes sparkle as he reaches across the table, a small, elegant box in hand. As it opens, gold and diamonds glint in the candlelight, and her anticipation turns to delight. But this isn’t the classic diamond engagement ring moment—it’s a new kind of milestone: the gift of a Rolex watch.

For the rich and glamorous, this luxury timepiece has become more than just a status symbol; it’s a declaration of love and commitment. Among athletes, actors, and financiers, gifting a Rolex to a significant other signifies something akin to a modern-day promise ring—proof that things are serious and that an engagement could be just around the corner.

The ultimate luxury promise

Rolex has long represented success, wealth, and exclusivity. With entry-level models starting at $9,200 and diamond-encrusted versions climbing into the six figures, this Swiss brand is synonymous with achievement. However, in the inner circles of the affluent and famous, the Rolex now carries an added layer of meaning: it’s a marker of romantic milestones.

Take Lara Worthington (née Bingle), who famously sported a gold Rolex in 2014—the same year she married Avatar star Sam Worthington. Their romance unfolded smoothly, in stark contrast to her tumultuous past relationship with cricket captain Michael Clarke, where no such watch ever appeared.

Candice Warner followed a slightly different path, first receiving a TAG Heuer early in her relationship with cricketer David Warner before upgrading to a Rolex Lady-Date just worth $21,000 by their first wedding anniversary. Similarly, reality star-turned-entrepreneur Snezana Wood transitioned from a TAG Heuer during her early days with Sam Wood to proudly showing off her gold Rolex in 2019.

A-list approval

This trend extends beyond romantic gestures—it’s a status signal among Australia’s A-list. The appearance of a Rolex on a socialite or celebrity WAG’s wrist has become a surefire way to spark engagement rumors.

Nadia Bartel, for instance, didn’t wear a Rolex during her marriage to former AFL star Jimmy Bartel, but her relationship with model Peter Dugmore brought new sparkle to her wrist. After publicly declaring him “the one,” she was spotted flaunting a gold Rolex at star-studded events, fueling speculation of an imminent proposal.

Nick Kyrgios took the tradition to new heights in 2022, spending $52,000 on a jewelry haul for his girlfriend, Costeen Hatzi, which included a platinum Rolex worth $10,000. Their ongoing Instagram teases keep fans guessing about their engagement timeline.

Rolexes and relationship goals

The pattern is clear: a Rolex on her wrist signals a serious relationship. Michael Clarke’s current flame, Arabella Sherbourne, joined the Rolex club in September 2024, showcasing a gold timepiece on Instagram nearly a year and a half after they began dating. Similarly, Chelsea Becirevic, dubbed “Australia’s hottest WAG,” added a Rolex to her collection while navigating a high-profile romance with AFL player Ivan Soldo.

From Sydney to Dubai and beyond, the Rolex isn’t just a gift—it’s a statement. Whether platinum, gold, or diamond-studded, this iconic timepiece has become the ultimate romantic accessory for the world’s hottest couples.

It’s no longer just about telling the time; it’s about making a timeless commitment.


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