Time and Tradition: The Watches of Pope Leo XIV and His Predecessors

In the realm of the Vatican, where symbolism and tradition intertwine, even the choice of a wristwatch can carry profound significance.

Pope Leo XIV, the first American and Augustinian pontiff, has recently ascended to the papacy, bringing with him a blend of humility and modern awareness.

Pope Leo XIV: A New Chapter

Pope Leo XIV, formerly Bishop Robert Prevost, has already signaled a commitment to peace and social justice in his early addresses, in style of his predecessors. 

When Pope Leo XIV's first appearance was followed was a flurry of horological intrigue. The watch on his wrist—initially mistaken for a Rolex Submariner—was then acclaimed as something far more grounded: a Wenger Swiss Military from the 1990s, with a beautiful red bezel.

However internet sleuths have now zoomed in and deduced a number of differences to the Wenger. The bezel’s wrong. The crown’s black, not silver. The case is off. Reddit says Timex or Casio. Nobody really knows.

And maybe this is for the best. 

A Glimpse into Papal Timepieces

Pope Francis: embracing simplicity

Pope Francis is known for his modest lifestyle, a trait reflected in his choice of a Casio MQ24-7B2 wristwatch. This basic, affordable timepiece, costing around €20, underscores his commitment to simplicity and accessibility.
Interestingly, this model has also been spotted on the wrist of rapper Tyler The Creator, highlighting its universal appeal.

Pope Francis also famously kept things strikingly humble with a black plastic Swatch – a 50 EUR statement of papal restraint. It was auctioned in 2022 for a charity auction for 50'000 EUR, making it the most expensive Swatch ever sold. 

Pope Benedict XVI: a nod to German craftsmanship

Pope Benedict XVI favored Benedict XVI preferred a chunky Erhard Junghans, sometimes mistaken for a Patek Philippe Calatrava.

The Erhard Junghans Tempus Automatic, a high-quality German watch, is a choice that  reflects his appreciation for precision and his German heritage.

Notably, in his later years, he was seen wearing a device similar to a watch, which functioned as a remote assistance tool, ensuring his safety.

Pope John Paul II: the Rolex connection

Pope John Paul II was often seen wearing a two-tone Rolex Datejust with a Jubilee bracelet and a champagne dial.

This elegant timepiece accompanied him throughout his 27-year papacy, symbolizing a blend of tradition and personal style.

The Rolex's durability and classic design mirrored the Pope's enduring influence and global outreach. 

Pope Pius IX: a legacy in pocket watches

Going further back, Pope Pius IX owned a silver Patek Philippe pocket watch, a gift from the Swiss Catholic community in 1877.

This exquisite timepiece featured a white enamel dial and bore the Pope's coat of arms, representing a fusion of faith and fine craftsmanship. 

A look to the future, from the past

The watches worn by popes offer more than just a means to tell time: they reflect personal values, cultural heritage, and the evolving image of the papacy.

As Pope Leo XIV begins his tenure, his choice of wristwatch, whether publicized or kept private, will undoubtedly align with his mission of humility, inclusivity, and forward-thinking leadership.