Princess Diana remains the most adored royal personality ever. Even after 25 years of her tragic end, she remains one of the most prominent fashion icons. The former princess of Wales had left an enduring mark on fashion with her innovative “revenge dress” and her renowned collection of uniquely quirky sweaters. Whether exuding regal elegance or showcasing iconic ski outfits, Princess Diana fearlessly pushed boundaries, even within the confines of royal protocols, through her daring personal fashion choices. Additionally, she exhibited a keen sense of accessorizing, evident in her remarkable assortment of watches. Her status as the people’s princess remains unparalleled, and her enduring style legacy continues to inspire fashion enthusiasts worldwide.
Princess Diana’s personal collection, ranging from elegant classics to glamorous rarities, held special meaning and had a rich history. During the initial stages of her engagement and marriage to the current King Charles III, she frequently wore a Philippe Patek watch, a thoughtful gift from her then-fiancé. As her marriage faced challenges, she developed a fondness for Cartier Tanks timepieces. However, these were not the only luxurious watches in the late princess’s possession. She also owned a few other opulent choices adorned with precious gemstones, befitting her royal status.
With the new season of “The Crown”, let us drive straight into the late Princess Diana’s watch collection. In this article, we will discuss the four iconic watches worn by Lady Diana.
From Royalty to Fashion: Princess Diana’s Watch Game
1. Patek Philippe Calatrava ref 3618
All the watches worn by Princess Diana held significant sentimental value. And among her cherished pieces was a yellow-gold Patek Philippe model. The watch was a Patek Philippe Calatrava ref 3618 in a gold case. It was a gift on her 20th birthday from her then-fiance, Prince Charles. Throughout the initial years of their marriage, this exquisite timepiece was frequently spotted gracing Diana’s wrist. One iconic photograph captures the princess attentively observing the Prince of Wales during a polo match, donning both her Patek Philippe Calatrava and Prince Charles’ watch simultaneously, a gesture that seemed to carry both superstitious significance and a bold fashion statement she sought to emulate. However, the exact model is no longer to be found. There are some interesting similar models to look at.
- Released year: NA
- Case size: 37 mm
- Water resistance: 30 ATM
- Strap: Alligator Leather
- Price: 16,540 USD
2. Vacheron Constantin 4481
After her marriage to the British Royal family, she received many wedding gifts. Among them is the gemstone-laden Asprey timepiece given to her by the royal family of Saudi Arabia. Later it was converted into her immortalized choker necklace. She also received a gift from her in-laws, especially from Queen Elizabeth II, who gifted her a diamond-set Vacheron Constantin watch from 1947. She was spotted wearing this watch when she attended the London premiere of Octopussy in June 1983. The watch features a dainty, diamond-encrusted case.
3. Tank Louis Cartier Watch
After her divorce from the Prince of Wales, Diana was frequently spotted wearing her Cartier timepieces. She developed a strong affinity for Cartier watches later in her life. Among her collection were two watches: a Tank Louis Cartier watch featuring a yellow gold case and a black alligator strap, and a Tank Française, also crafted in yellow gold. Interestingly, the Tank Française was a special gift from her father, the 8th Earl Edward John Spencer. Upon Diana’s passing, Prince William selected the Tank Française as a cherished memento to remember his mother. The design of Cartier’s Tank watch holds historical significance, originating in 1917 and drawing inspiration from the aerial view of World War tanks. Its unique and emblematic style further solidified its place as a favored piece in Princess Diana’s personal collection.
- Released year: NA
- Case size: 29.5 x 22 mm
- Water resistance: 3 ATM
- Strap: Alligator Leather
- Price: 13,465 USD
4. Tank Française Watch
The Tank Française watch is among those watch brands that have pushed the customary limitations of timepieces and jewelry by presenting a contemporary design with more modern sharp edges and a finely polished band. Despite its yellow-gold body, the watch oozed poise and sophistication. Along with her Tank Louis, the late Princess Diana also had another Cartier: a yellow gold Tank Française. It was her go-to watch for casual events. Prince William received the watch after his mother’s death. However, the watch was later handed over to Prince Harry. The watch is now in the possession of his wife, Megan Markle.
- Released year: NA
- Case size: 32 mm x 27 mm
- Water resistance: 300 m
- Strap: 18K yellow gold
- Price: 26000 USD
All the watches worn by Princess Diana
The late Princess Diana had possessed an excellent set of watches fit to be worn by a Royal Lady like her. Here are all the watches that she had –
- Patek Philippe Calatrava ref 3618
- Vacheron Constantin 4481
- Tank Louis Cartier Watch
- Tank Française Watch
From Writer
The most popular fashion icon and a Royal figure, Princess Diana, has always amazed us with her sense of style. She had her personal collection of watches to match every occasion. Most of her watches were for formal occasions, yet only she could rock them at casual events as well. Although, we still don’t know the extent of her entire wardrobe. But her iconic watches will be remembered for years to come.
