Which watch does Gabriel Attal wear?
In politics, every detail matters. A tie, a suit, a watch on the wrist… all signs that are scrutinised, analysed, sometimes overinterpreted. But what happens when a watch escapes that logic of appearances?
On Gabriel Attal’s wrist, it isn’t a flashy model or an ostentatious collector’s piece. The former Prime Minister wears a 1998 vintage Jaeger watch inherited from his father. Not a symbol of success, then. More an heirloom—an object steeped in intimacy.
This idea was summed up—better than a thousand speeches—by Patek Philippe’s most famous campaign: “You never actually own a Patek Philippe. You merely look after it for the next generation.” Here, it isn’t a Patek on the wrist, but the spirit is the same: a watch can be an inheritance, not a display.
That said, if he wanted to stay with Jaeger-LeCoultre, Attal could have chosen a Reverso, that watch whose case flips over—much like politicians flip their coats. But no: he wears a Master Control, round, steady, with no double face. It’s not proof of consistency, of course, but at least the object doesn’t make the gymnastics any easier.
If you enjoy this kind of analysis, I invite you to browse the other watch profiles in the Who wears what? section: that’s where we decode wrists, choices, and sometimes contradictions. A few politicians already put under the microscope: Emmanuel Macron, Edouard Philippe, Sébastien Lecornu, Sarah Knafo, Jean-Luc Mélenchon or Jordan Bardella.
A vintage Jaeger-LeCoultre: discreet luxury, personal history, and a chronograph
Gabriel Attal’s watch is a Jaeger-LeCoultre from the Master Control collection, in chronograph form. It’s a nuanced choice: we’re far from the “statement punch” watch. Jaeger-LeCoultre is a house that speaks to connoisseurs: manufacture pedigree, seriousness, history. And the Master Control is elegance without noise.
The watch in detail: Master Control Chrono (ref. 145.2.31)
Gabriel Attal’s Jaeger watch carries reference 145.2.31. Here is the full technical sheet.
- Movement: Jaeger-LeCoultre Calibre 630
- Movement: quartz
- Function: Hours, minutes, seconds, date, chronograph
- Jewels: 25
- Case: 18K rose gold, screw-down caseback.
- Diameter: 34 mm
- Strap: leather with an 18K rose-gold folding clasp
Yes, it’s quartz. And no, it isn’t “shameful”. In the 1990s, a well-designed manufacture quartz can also be a rational choice: accuracy, reliability, and controlled thickness. Quartz hasn’t always been the synonym for “disposable” that people pin on it today.
How much is Gabriel Attal’s watch worth?
Based on my research, you can find it pre-owned at around €6,500, depending on condition.
Why this watch makes sense for Attal
The contrast is elegant: rose gold, yet 34 mm; real prestige, but without being flashy; a chronograph, yet quartz—so accurate and practical. A watch that says “I know the value of things” without saying “look at me”. And the story of passing it down adds a layer that can’t be bought.
In politics, many objects are used to manufacture an image. Here, the watch mainly serves as a reminder that some things can’t be manufactured: memories, bonds, and the objects that give them form.
FAQ: Gabriel Attal’s watch
What watch does Gabriel Attal wear?
He is regularly seen wearing a vintage Jaeger-LeCoultre from the Master Control collection, in chronograph form, dated 1998 and presented as a gift from his father.
What is the exact reference of his watch?
It is reference 145.2.31.
Is the movement automatic?
No: it is powered by a Jaeger-LeCoultre Calibre 630 quartz movement, with chronograph function.
What functions does this Master Control Chrono offer?
Hours/minutes/seconds, date, and a chronograph with a 30-minute counter and a 12-hour counter, plus a tachymeter scale on the rehaut.
What is its pre-owned price?
You can find it at around €6,500, depending on condition.
