Trump Insiders Sport Custom Rolexes as New Status Symbol

A new status symbol has emerged among President Donald Trump's inner circle: custom Rolex watches known as the 'White House Rolex.' These timepieces, according to Vanity Fair, are a departure from traditional presidential pins and signify access within the former president's orbit.

Two versions of the watch are noted: a gold Day-Date Presidential and a GMT 'Pepsi' model. Both feature blue dials adorned with a gold presidential seal and stars marking the 45th and 47th seconds, a deliberate reference to Trump's two terms. The watches are also engraved with the words 'The White House' on the back.

These are not official Rolex creations. Instead, the watches are reportedly purchased from Rolex and then sent to a bespoke watchmaker in London for customization with presidential insignia and other White House-specific details. A standard gold Day-Date Presidential model costs approximately $50,000 before custom modifications.

A surprising aspect of this trend is that recipients reportedly purchase the watches themselves, rather than receiving them as gifts from Trump. Among those reported to own one are Trump's chief of staff Susie Wiles, billionaire special envoy Steve Witkoff, and White House counsel Will Scharf. The circle reportedly extends to Vice President JD Vance's staff, including chief of staff Nick Luna and national security adviser Cliff Sims. Former Trump campaign manager Chris LaCivita and presidential pollster Tony Fabrizio are also said to be owners.

One Washington insider commented on the exclusivity and cost, suggesting that individuals within the West Wing might not be financially able to afford such a watch. This is contrasted with the significant personal wealth of some owners, such as Witkoff, who has been observed wearing other high-value timepieces like a rose-gold Patek Philippe Nautilus and a Rolex Daytona. Susie Wiles is also known for wearing a diamond-encrusted Rolex Datejust.

Beyond the watches, Trump has also gifted Florsheim shoes to members of his inner circle, including Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio. These gifts, alongside other items, contribute to a broader display of wealth and access associated with proximity to the former president, including private clubs, luxury cars, and private jets.

Separately, financial disclosures released recently revealed that Trump gave substantial cash gifts to aides during the holidays. Four individuals received gifts totaling $155,000, with executive assistant Natalie Harp, communications adviser Margo Martin, and deputy director of Oval Office operations Chamberlain Harris each receiving $45,000, and director of Oval Office operations Walt Nauta receiving $20,000. A White House official stated that Trump has a tradition of giving holiday gifts to those in his orbit, independent of their official duties.