Being an American Express ultra-elite Centurion cardholder already signifies living the good life. A prime example is the access to the ‘Centurion Watch Program,’ which offers US cardholders VIP services through Watches of Switzerland. The experts from Watches of Switzerland Group will assist you in reviewing an exclusive collection, handling watch inquiries, and providing market insights (not every tycoon buys a timepiece just to wear it). Known for its stellar reputation as a trusted global retailer of high-end watch brands, Rolex constitutes over 50% of the UK-based retailer’s offerings. As the largest dealer of Rolex, Omega, Cartier, and TAG Heuer watches in the UK, the Centurion Watch Program is poised to set new records in the US.
The ultra-exclusive, one-night-only shopping event at Centurion New York featured 200 wristwatches, including unique timepieces never listed on a dealer’s website, world-firsts, unusual variations, and sought-after examples such as two limited production Nautilus timepieces from Patek Philippe, a first-edition Omega Speedmaster, and a first-edition IWC Portugieser.
Speaking to Bloomberg, James Lamdin, the event’s curator, emphasized the exclusivity regarding the product, blending style, story, and iconography. Bess Spaeth, senior vice president for U.S. Premium Products and Membership Rewards at American Express, noted, ‘This is not just about buying a beautiful watch; it’s about owning a piece of horological history.’ He added, ‘These are some of the finest watch brands in the world—from Rolex and Richard Mille to Patek Philippe, Bovet, Omega, and Jacob and Co.’
A notable privilege of the Centurion Watch Program is the ten-day trial period, allowing vintage timepieces to be tested on the wrist before final purchase. Invited ‘black card’ holders attended the event, which unsurprisingly had a waiting list. According to Bloomberg, the Centurion Watch Program event took place on January 25th at the Centurion New York clubhouse on the 55th floor of One Vanderbilt Tower on East 42nd Street. For those unable to attend this pop-up, the program will include tailored in-person shopping sessions at 29 Watches of Switzerland boutiques across the US.
The Amex Black Card is a lifestyle, not a mode of payment-
The invitation-only Centurion Card, also known as the Amex Black Card, caters to a select group of high-net-worth individuals. A $10,000 initiation fee and an annual fee of $5,000 are part of the package. However, the card is worth every cent, offering no credit limit which is its most incredible feature. You can swipe your black card to buy a $75 million painting. Then there are the coveted hotel benefits at notable brands like Aman Resorts, Belmond, and St. Regis Hotels & Resorts. These benefits include complimentary breakfasts, room upgrades, early check-in, and late checkout—the recipe for a really good time. Black Card holders also receive Delta SkyMiles Platinum Medallion status, arrival services at over 30 international airports, access to Centurion Lounges, and much more.
While having access to over 1,000 exclusive restaurants globally is a phenomenal perk, what is truly exceptional is the VIP access to major events like Wimbledon and Coachella, along with curated experiences in cities worldwide. From wine tours to private suites at airports, travel insurance, personalized concierge service, and complimentary membership to Equinox Destination Access, the Black Card is more than just a payment tool. It is a status symbol that provides extensive benefits, enabling those with wealth to enjoy a high-end lifestyle.
