Do you smell it? It's the scent of legacy in the air. We're knee-deep into May, and that can only mean one thing for hoop heads: the relentless, unyielding NBA Playoffs. Exciting things are unfolding on the court as we speak: OKC just dismantled the Nuggets in a Game 7, the Knicks are marching into the Conference Finals for the first time in 25 years, and Anthony Edwards is making good on his "Legend Slayer" moniker, having sent home LeBron and Steph.
But I implore you to look beyond the court briefly—into the tunnel walks and courtside seats. If you haven't noticed, the wrist game this postseason has been matching up to the excitement on the court thus far. Here’s a look at the standout watches spotted courtside (and beyond) so far in the playoffs.
Even off the court, Steph Curry stays dialed in. The Warriors superstar was spotted rocking an all-black Cartier Santos—a sleek, sport-luxe twist on the classic square-faced icon with its stealthy ADLC coating and signature exposed screws.
Never one for subtlety, Russell Westbrook was spotted wearing the 1978 Rolex Day-Date Ref. 18038 with a striking lapis lazuli dial. This vintage timepiece features a 36mm 18k yellow gold case and the signature "President" bracelet. The lapis lazuli dial, known for its deep blue hue and natural inclusions of pyrite, perfectly complements Westbrook's confident presence.
Nickeil Alexander-Walker, the Timberwolves' versatile defensive wing was seen sporting the vibrant Rolex Oyster Perpetual 41 with a yellow dial Ref. 124300, a timepiece that has garnered attention for its bold and playful design. This model is part of Rolex's 2021 lineup, featuring a 41mm stainless steel case and a lacquered yellow dial, which offers a fresh and contemporary look compared to the brand's more traditional offerings.
The new kid on the Los Angeles block was seen wearing the Jacob & Co. Bugatti Chiron Tourbillon, which features a miniature W16 engine replica, complete with moving pistons and crankshaft, activated by a side pusher. The 30° inclined tourbillon only adds to its technical allure.
The back-to-back MVP keeps it deceptively simple with his Rolex Submariner Ref. 116618LN in 18k yellow gold. The 40mm timepiece features a black ceramic bezel and a glossy black dial with a water resistance of up to 300m. Robust and reliable—it's the perfect watch for the Joker.
Jimmy Butler recently showcased his vibrant style by wearing the G-SHOCK x J Balvin DWE-5600JB-1A9, a watch that was probably given to him by close friend, Colombian reggaeton superstar J Balvin.
This limited-edition timepiece features interchangeable black and translucent matte yellow bezels and bands, along with Spanish text and Balvin's signature lightning bolt motif, reflecting the artist's dynamic aesthetic.
I'm beginning to see a pattern here—NBA players really like their Rollies. The Mav's maestro was spotted courtside during a Lakers VS. Timberwolves game with a Rolex Day-Date 40 in Everose gold Ref. 228235. Dripping in warm rose gold with a sleek olive-green dial, the watch offers both elegance and comfort thanks to the iconic President bracelet.
Jayson Tatum made a statement off the court by wearing the Patek Philippe Calatrava 5180/1R Skeleton. Featuring a 39mm 18k rose gold case and bracelet, the movement is entirely skeletonised, revealing intricate hand-engraved decorations that require approximately 130 hours of meticulous craftsmanship.
