India has long fascinated the world with its opulence, symbolism, and timeless artistry—qualities that resonate deeply with the ethos of haute horlogerie. Today, ultra-luxury watch brands are not only entering the Indian market with curated offerings but also embedding Indian history, craftsmanship, and design language directly into their watches. This isn’t just market expansion—it’s cultural storytelling. And nothing makes that statement louder than the timepiece Salman Khan recently wore: a tribute to Ram Janmabhoomi on his wrist.
Jacob & Co. — A Sacred Statement on the Wrist
Salman Khan’s Jacob & Co. Epic X Ram Janmabhoomi Edition is more than just a limited-edition timepiece—it’s a wearable mandir. Created in honour of the consecration of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya, the watch features intricately engraved depictions of the temple façade, Lord Ram, and Lord Hanuman. The phrase “Jai Shree Ram” is boldly inscribed at 6 o’clock, making it unmistakably devotional. The orange rubber strap reflects the saffron flag of Sanatan Dharma, a hue synonymous with purity and spiritual power. With only 49 pieces released globally, this titanium and rose gold piece is already a collector’s rarity.
Approximate Price: Jacob & Co. Epic X Ram Janmabhoomi Edition is priced at ₹34 lakh (titanium), ₹61 lakh (rose gold)
Chopard — Lord Ganesh and the Art of Devotion
Chopard‘s L.U.C Quattro Spirit 25 Ganesh Edition is one of the most spiritual expressions of haute horology. The dial features a miniature portrait of Lord Ganesh, created through Urushi lacquer or Grand Feu enamel, set against a gold or midnight-blue background. The piece exudes spiritual gravitas, with a lotus base and subtle Sanskrit motifs near the lugs. The strap, a classic matte leather, is left understated—allowing the dial’s divine art to be the focal point. This is a highly limited piece, often created on commission.
ALSO READ: Wimbledon 2025: When Leonardo DiCaprio And Rolex Quietly Stole The Show
Approximate Price: Chopard’s L.U.C Quattro Spirit 25 Ganesh Edition is priced around ₹1.8–2 crore.
Vacheron Constantin — Métiers d’Art Fabuleux Ornements: Indian Manuscript
From VC’s Métiers d’Art “Fabuleux Ornements” collection, the Indian Manuscript edition is a masterclass in enamel work. The 37 mm pink‑gold case carries a diamond-set bezel, but the real marvel is the champlevé enamel dial, showcasing richly coloured floral motifs inspired by Indian manuscript borders, outlined with gold engravings. The openworked movement is visible through the dial, whose foliage and filigree echo traditional Indian miniature and ornamental aesthetics. Only around 20 pieces were made.
Approximate Price in India: Around ₹1.8–2.1 crore (based on comparable limited Métiers d’Art prices)
Franck Muller — Vanguard “Indian Heritage” Limited Edition
Unveiled in 2022 to commemorate India’s 75th Independence Day and retailer success, Franck Muller released this Vanguard India Limited Edition, available in two variants: stainless steel/gold (100 pcs) and rose gold (50 pcs). The royal-blue dial features oversized Devanagari numerals, replacing traditional markers in a bold nod to India’s identity. The caseback is etched with an outline of India, and the strap pairs green crocodile leather with saffron‑tone rubber inlays, subtly hinting at the Indian tricolour.
Approximate Price in India: Franck Muller Vanguard India Limited Edition is priced around ₹11.7 lakh (steel/gold), ₹18.7 lakh (rose gold)
Cartier — Santos 100 “Taj Mahal” Limited Edition
Cartier’s Santos 100 “Taj Mahal” Limited Edition, created exclusively for the Indian market, is a poetic homage to India’s most iconic architectural marvel. The 42 mm 18 K yellow gold case is framed by a diamond-set bezel and houses a dial that renders the silhouette of the Taj Mahal’s dome and reflecting pool using hand‑engraved mother‑of‑pearl, onyx, emerald, and gold. Intricate detailing evokes the Mughal architecture’s symmetry and elegance. The watch is paired with a refined green alligator strap, symbolising serenity and complementing the emerald tones on the dial—drawing parallels with the lush gardens and gemstone accents of the monument. It is an elegant couture piece, released in extremely limited numbers solely in India.
Approximate Price in India: ₹1.5–1.7 crore (based on similar limited‑edition Cartier executions)
ALSO READ: 6 Ultra-Luxury Water-Resistant Watches to Invest in Now
Conclusion: A Cultural Canvas on the Wrist
India’s cultural richness—be it spiritual, architectural, or artistic—has found a permanent place on the wrists of the world’s most discerning collectors. For global watchmakers, Indian inspiration is no longer a symbolic afterthought—it’s the core design philosophy of their most exclusive releases. These watches are not just technical marvels but intimate canvases that celebrate India’s timeless legacy—every tick a tribute.
