The Ryder Cup stands as one of the most highly anticipated and widely viewed events in the sporting calendar. Held every two years, this prestigious tournament brings together the best players from Europe and the United States in a thrilling showdown that captures the attention of millions worldwide. More than just a contest of skill, the Ryder Cup blends emerging talent, seasoned champions, and golfing legends, all competing not only for personal achievement but for the pride of their team and nation. Its unique match-play format, historic rivalries, and unrivalled team spirit make it a spectacle that transcends golf, offering three days of unforgettable moments, drama, and pure theatre.
This year, the stage is set at Bethpage Black in New York, where Europe’s finest golfers will take on the very best from the United States. Across fairways and greens, the world will watch legendary names and rising stars go head-to-head in one of sport’s most intense competitions. But while birdies, fist pumps, and pressure-packed putts will dominate the headlines, there’s another element of the Ryder Cup that tells a story of its own: the watches on the wrists of the players. From bold chronographs to elegant dress pieces, each timepiece offers a glimpse into the personalities and styles of golf’s elite. At BQ Watches, we can’t help but ask — beyond the scorecard, which team will come out on top in the battle of wristwear?
When it comes to Team Europe, watches have long played a part in the Ryder Cup story. Rolex has been the most visible brand, thanks to its deep partnership with the event and its tradition of gifting watches to team members, caddies, and even family. Yet European players have also brought their own affiliations with prestigious watchmakers such as Omega, Audemars Piguet, and TAG Heuer, making the team’s wrist game as diverse as its talent.
Rolex
Rolex has been a Worldwide Partner of the Ryder Cup since 2021, firmly establishing its presence at the heart of the event. European captains and team members are closely associated with the brand, and the current squad were gifted Rolex watches as part of tradition. Captain Luke Donald was spotted wearing a Submariner Date with a blue dial and a yellow-gold and Oystersteel bracelet. Matt Fitzpatrick, a devoted Rolex collector, often wears his platinum Cosmograph Daytona, while Jon Rahm has been seen sporting a Yacht-Master with a Falcon’s Eye dial. Viktor Hovland recently joined the Rolex camp, choosing a Daytona on an Oysterflex bracelet.
Omega
Rory McIlroy, an Omega ambassador since 2013, continues to showcase the brand’s elegance and innovation. At the 2025 Ryder Cup, he was spotted wearing the De Ville Tourbillon Numbered Edition in Sedna gold, featuring a center-mounted tourbillon, as well as the Omega Speedmaster “Silver Snoopy Award.” McIlroy’s timepieces reflect both his passion for precision and his status as one of golf’s most stylish players.
Audemars Piguet
While Rolex and Omega dominate the headlines, Audemars Piguet has long been a favourite among European players. Tyrrell Hatton added a bold splash of colour to the 2025 tournament with his Royal Oak Offshore Diver, featuring a distinctive purple dial and matching rubber strap — a watch as expressive as his fiery playing style. Previously, Viktor Hovland represented AP as well, before his 2025 switch to Rolex.
From timeless Rolex icons to avant-garde Omega complications and daring Audemars Piguet designs, Team Europe’s watches reflect the diversity of its players. Whether in 2023 or 2025, one thing is clear — European golfers bring as much character to their wrists as they do to their game.
Team USA brings its own impressive collection of luxury watches to the Ryder Cup, with players representing a range of prestigious brands. Rolex, Omega, and TAG Heuer are particularly prominent, reflecting both personal preferences and official partnerships. As with Team Europe, the American squad were gifted watches as part of the event tradition, ensuring that the team’s style is as sharp off the course as it is on it.
Rolex
Rolex remains a central presence among the American team. Captains and players alike have been spotted wearing iconic models, from Submariners to Daytona chronographs. The watches not only serve as a nod to the brand’s longstanding partnership with the Ryder Cup but also as a symbol of achievement and prestige within the team.
Omega
Several US players are ambassadors for Omega, showcasing the brand’s blend of precision and sporty elegance. These timepieces often appear during play, pairing technical excellence with a refined aesthetic, perfectly suited to the intensity and pace of Ryder Cup competition.
TAG Heuer and Other Brands
TAG Heuer continues to have a presence among the team, with select players wearing sporty chronographs that complement their on-course style. Other luxury watchmakers occasionally appear, reflecting the individual tastes of players who like to mix performance with personal expression.
From classic Rolexes to standout Omegas and TAG Heuer chronographs, Team USA’s watches mirror the diversity and character of the squad itself. On the course, every shot counts - and off it, the team’s choice of wristwear ensures they make a statement as memorable as their golf.
As the Ryder Cup reaches its thrilling conclusion, we’ll have to wait and see who comes out on top. There’s still so much at stake, every putt and drive counting towards victory. But while the tension builds on the course, it’s the perfect moment to reward yourself - why not celebrate the excitement with a brand-new watch that’s just as timeless as the game itself?
If you’re searching for a pre-owned luxury timepiece, tee off by browsing our online inventory to see our carefully curated selection. We carry most models in a variety of dial coloUrs, and if the one you’re after isn’t in stock, we can swing into action and source it for you. For a more personalised experience, we also welcome you to visit our luxury showroom, where our team can help you find the perfect watch - no sand traps or water hazards included. We stock all the top brands, including Rolex, Patek Philippe, Audemars Piguet, Cartier, and Breitling, so you’re sure to hit a hole-in-one with your next purchase.
At BQ Watches, we're here to help you find your perfect watch. If you don’t spot your ideal timepiece in our current inventory, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team. With our extensive sourcing services, we’re dedicated to helping you track down your dream watch. Get in touch with the BQ Watches team today and let’s talk watches!
