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25 Scariest Horror Movies of All Time—According to Science

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Horror has always been personal, shaped by what scares you and what you can handle watching. That’s why there’s no easy answer to what makes a horror movie the scariest of all time. In The 25 Scariest Horror Movies Ever, According to Science, we move past opinions and focus on real reactions, examining how people actually respond while watching, not what they say later. Horror movies can offer quick jump scares or slow-building tension, but not every film has the same impact. That’s what makes this list interesting to explore.

Rather than just looking at rankings or popularity, researchers spent years tracking how audiences reacted in real time. They measured heart rate changes, sudden spikes during scary scenes, and how well a movie keeps people feeling uneasy. This method doesn’t only reward loud or shocking moments. Movies that slowly build tension are also recognized for how well they keep viewers nervous. The result is a more balanced view of horror, showing which films truly get under your skin as you watch.

Scariest Horror Movies of All Time

With science now giving us a clearer picture, we can finally see which films truly deliver on fear. Here are the 25 scariest horror movies of all time, based on real audience data.

Michael Hall D’Addario in Sinister | Image: Gramercy Pictures

1. Sinister

  • Genre: Horror, Mystery
  • Director: Scott Derrickson
  • Starring: Ethan Hawke, Juliet Rylance, James Ransone
  • Release Date: 12 October, 2012

IMDb: 6.8 | Tomatometer: 64% | Popcornmeter: 62% | Average: 64.6

  • Resting Heart Rate: 64 BPM
  • Movie Heart Rate: 86 BPM
  • Highest Spike Rate: 131 BPM
  • Overall Difference: 22
  • Scare Score: 96

Released in 2012, Sinister takes the top spot, and once you’ve seen it, that won’t come as much of a surprise. The film maintains an average heart rate of 86 BPM, rising to 131 BPM in its most intense moments, showing how consistently it keeps you on edge from start to finish. Ethan Hawke stars as a true-crime writer who finds disturbing tapes connected to a family’s murder. Instead of walking away, he digs deeper and moves his own family into the same house. It’s not the best decision, and that’s when things start to fall apart. The movie gradually becomes unsettling without going over the top.

Host | Image: The Guardian

2. Host

  • Genre: Horror
  • Director: Rob Savage
  • Starring: Haley Bishop, Jemma Moore, Emma Louise Webb
  • Release Date: 30 July, 2020

IMDb: 6.5 | Tomatometer: 99% | Popcornmeter: 70% | Average: 78

  • Resting Heart Rate: 64 BPM
  • Movie Heart Rate: 88 BPM
  • Highest Spike Rate: 130 BPM
  • Overall Difference: 24
  • Scare Score: 95

When the Covid-19 pandemic kept everyone at home and forced them to rely on virtual hangouts to stay in touch, Host made that reality even more unsettling. The movie is about a group of friends who try a virtual séance, and things quickly go wrong when they contact something they shouldn’t have. Since the whole film is shot this way, it feels raw and a bit rough around the edges compared to other found-footage movies. That’s what makes it so effective. The story moves fast, keeps the suspense high, and really sticks with you. That’s probably why it finished just one point behind Sinister on the list.

Skinamirink | Image: Shudder

3. Skinamirink

  • Genre: Horror
  • Director: Kyle Edward Ball
  • Starring: Lucas Paul, Dali Rose Tetreault
  • Release Date: 25 July, 2022

IMDb: 4.7 | Tomatometer: 73% | Popcornmeter: 44% | Average: 54.6

  • Resting Heart Rate: 64 BPM
  • Movie Heart Rate: 84 BPM
  • Highest Spike Rate: 113 BPM
  • Overall Difference: 20
  • Scare Score: 91

Most people don’t expect an experimental film to be scary, but Skinamarink still manages to get under your skin anyway. Plenty of people came out of it unsure about what they had just watched, but still feeling genuinely uneasy, which probably tells you everything you need to know. The film is mostly seen through the eyes of two kids, Kevin and Kaylee, as they explore their home after their father disappears. Things slowly stop making sense—doors, windows, and even parts of the house just vanish. It’s a strange setup, and having kids at the center makes everything feel even more unsettling, as if you’re stuck with them, not really understanding what’s going on.

Insidious | Image: FilmDistrict

4. Insidious

  • Genre: Horror
  • Director: James Wan
  • Starring: Patrick Wilson, Rose Byrne, Ty Simpkins
  • Release Date: 1 April, 2011

IMDb: 6.8 | Tomatometer: 66% | Popcornmeter: 62% | Average: 64.7

  • Resting Heart Rate: 64 BPM
  • Movie Heart Rate: 85 BPM
  • Highest Spike Rate: 133 BPM
  • Overall Difference: 21
  • Scare Score: 90

Think haunted-house movies can’t surprise you anymore? Insidious begins with a story you might expect, but it quickly becomes even more unsettling. The film follows a family dealing with strange events after their son falls into a mysterious coma, and things soon go from odd to genuinely frightening. The movie keeps you on edge, balancing quiet moments with sudden scares. Even though it uses classic horror techniques, it still feels fresh and different.

The Conjuring | Image: Warner Bros

5. The Conjuring

  • Genre: Horror
  • Director: James Wan
  • Starring: Patrick Wilson, Vera Farmiga, Lili Taylor
  • Release Date: 19 July, 2013

IMDb: 7.5 | Tomatometer: 86% | Popcornmeter: 83% | Average: 84.7

  • Resting Heart Rate: 64 BPM
  • Movie Heart Rate: 84 BPM
  • Highest Spike Rate: 132 BPM
  • Overall Difference: 20
  • Scare Score: 88

Most people have heard of The Conjuring, and it’s still one of the best horror movies out there. It follows the classic haunted-house setup, with Ed and Lorraine Warren, who are paranormal investigators, helping a family deal with something strange. Even though the story feels familiar, the way the movie tells it is what makes it special. James Wan takes his time building suspense, so when something finally happens, it really hits hard. The movie doesn’t rely on jump scares, but when they do show up, they’re effective. That’s probably why people enjoy rewatching it.

Hereditary | Image: A24

6. Hereditary

  • Genre: Horror, Drama
  • Director: Ari Aster
  • Starring: Toni Collette, Alex Wolff, Milly Shapiro
  • Release Date: 8 June, 2018

IMDb: 7.3 | Tomatometer: 90% | Popcornmeter: 72% | Average: 78.3

  • Resting Heart Rate: 64 BPM
  • Movie Heart Rate: 82 BPM
  • Highest Spike Rate: 104 BPM
  • Overall Difference: 18
  • Scare Score: 81

If you go in expecting a typical horror movie, Hereditary quickly shows it is something different. The tension builds quietly, and there are moments that really get your heart racing. When it was first released, it did not make a big splash, but people who saw it remember it. That is mostly because the film slowly reveals the story of the Graham family and the unsettling secrets in their past. As the plot unfolds, you realize this is not just a story about grief or strange happenings, but something much darker, almost impossible to escape. With Toni Collette’s powerful performance, this is a film that stays with you long after the credits roll.

Smile 2 | Image: Paramount Pictures

7. Smile 2

  • Genre: Horror
  • Director: Parker Finn
  • Starring: Naomi Scott, Kyle Gallner, Rosemarie DeWitt
  • Release Date: 18 October, 2024

IMDb: 6.7 | Tomatometer: 86% | Popcornmeter: 81% | Average: 83

  • Resting Heart Rate: 64 BPM
  • Movie Heart Rate: 83 BPM
  • Highest Spike Rate: 110 BPM
  • Overall Difference: 19
  • Scare Score: 79

Smile 2 picks up where the first film left off, this time unfolding the unsettling story on a larger scale. The focus shifts to a global pop star who starts to sense the same disturbing presence, and the pressures of fame bring a new kind of tension. The movie keeps its psychological edge, making things feel uncertain, but adds enough new twists to stay engaging. This helps the sequel feel fresh while still tying back to the original.

Smile | Image: Paramount Pictures

8. Smile

Genre: Horror
Director: Parker Finn
Starring: Sosie Bacon, Jessie T. Usher, Kyle Gallner
Release Date: 30 September, 2022

IMDb: 6.5 | Tomatometer: 80% | Popcornmeter: 77% | Average: 74

  • Resting Heart Rate: 64 BPM
  • Movie Heart Rate: 83 BPM
  • Highest Spike Rate: 114 BPM
  • Overall Difference: 19
  • Scare Score: 78

Before Smile 2 expanded things, Smile was the one that really introduced that unsettling idea and showed how effective it could be. The film follows a therapist who starts experiencing strange and disturbing events after a traumatic encounter, and from there, things slowly begin to spiral in ways that feel increasingly hard to escape. It leans more into psychological tension than anything else, letting that uneasy feeling build over time, which is a big part of why it stuck with people and led to a sequel in the first place.

The Exorcism of Emily Rose | Image: Sony Pictures

9. The Exorcism of Emily Rose

  • Genre: Horror, Drama
  • Director: Scott Derrickson
  • Starring: Laura Linney, Tom Wilkinson, Jennifer Carpenter
  • Release Date: 9 September, 2005

IMDb: 6.7 | Tomatometer: 46% | Popcornmeter: 60% | Average: 57.6

  • Resting Heart Rate: 64 BPM
  • Movie Heart Rate: 82 BPM
  • Highest Spike Rate: 96 BPM
  • Overall Difference: 18
  • Scare Score: 76

Based on a story that feels too real for comfort, The Exorcism of Emily Rose takes a different approach from most horror films by blending possession with a courtroom case, following a priest on trial after a failed exorcism. That mix keeps things grounded and more believable, while the flashbacks to Emily’s experience show the film’s darker moments. It doesn’t rely on constant scares, but when it does, it hits in a way that sticks, especially because it feels close to something that could actually happen.

Talk To Me | Image: A24

10. Talk To Me

  • Genre: Horror
  • Director: Danny Philippou, Michael Philippou
  • Starring: Sophie Wilde, Alexandra Jensen, Joe Bird
  • Release Date: 30 July, 2022

IMDb: 7.1 | Tomatometer: 94% | Popcornmeter: 83% | Average: 82.6

  • Resting Heart Rate: 64 BPM
  • Movie Heart Rate: 79 BPM
  • Highest Spike Rate: 106 BPM
  • Overall Difference: 18
  • Scare Score: 75

At first, it seems harmless. A group of teens pass around a strange embalmed hand that lets them talk to spirits, almost like they’re playing a game. But things quickly get complicated. When someone holds on too long and the connection isn’t broken in time, everything starts to spiral out of control. The film keeps up this wild energy, focusing on how quickly things can go wrong. Since it’s set in Australia, it also has a unique vibe compared to most other horror movies.

Hell House LLC | Image: Shudder

11. Hell House LLC

  • Genre: Horror
  • Director: Stephen Cognetti
  • Starring: Gore Abrams, Alice Bahlke, Danny Bellini
  • Release Date: 16 October, 2015

IMDb: 6.4 | Tomatometer: 75% | Popcornmeter: 71% | Average: 70

  • Resting Heart Rate: 64 BPM
  • Movie Heart Rate: 81 BPM
  • Highest Spike Rate: 107 BPM
  • Overall Difference: 17
  • Scare Score: 75

If you think you’ve seen everything the found-footage style has to offer, Hell House LLC might catch you off guard. It follows a group as they set up a haunted-house attraction in an abandoned hotel, which already sounds like a bad idea, and things only get worse from there. As they document the process, small things start to feel off, and the unease gradually builds into something far more unsettling than expected. It doesn’t rush, and that slow build is exactly what makes it work, especially once you realise something isn’t right long before the film spells it out.

The Conjuring 2 | Image: New Line Cinema

12 A. The Conjuring 2

Genre: Horror
Director: James Wan
Starring: Patrick Wilson, Vera Farmiga, Madison Wolfe
Release Date: 10 June, 2016

IMDb: 7.3 | Tomatometer: 80% | Popcornmeter: 82% | Average: 78.3

  • Resting Heart Rate: 64 BPM
  • Movie Heart Rate: 79 BPM
  • Highest Spike Rate: 116 BPM
  • Overall Difference: 18
  • Scare Score: 74

The Conjuring 2 picks up where the first movie left off, following the Warrens as they travel from the US to England to investigate one of their most famous cases. A family there faces a problem that won’t go away on its own. Like the first film, this sequel uses a slow, steady build to create tension, letting scenes linger just long enough to make you uneasy before raising the stakes. While there are some bigger moments this time, the movie still relies mostly on atmosphere, which keeps it feeling fresh rather than just repeating the original.

It Follows | Image: Northern Lights Films

12 B. It Follows

Genre: Horror
Director: David Robert Mitchell
Starring: Maika Monroe, Keir Gilchrist, Olivia Luccardi
Release Date: 27 March, 2015

IMDb: 6.8 | Tomatometer: 95% | Popcornmeter 66% | Average: 76.3

  • Resting Heart Rate: 64 BPM
  • Movie Heart Rate: 81 BPM
  • Highest Spike Rate: 96 BPM
  • Overall Difference: 17
  • Scare Score: 74

Picture something walking toward you, slowly and steadily, never stopping. That’s the whole idea behind It Follows, and it works surprisingly well. The story is about Jay, who discovers she’s picked up a curse that is passed from one person to another. Once it starts, you can’t really ignore it. The movie stands out because of how relentless everything feels. There’s always this presence that never lets up, always getting closer no matter what you do. It doesn’t depend on big jump scares, and even though it doesn’t have the dramatic highs of other horror movies, it still manages to get under your skin and stay with you.

12 C. The Dark and The Wicked

  • Genre: Horror
  • Director: Bryan Bertino
  • Starring: Marin Ireland, Michael Abbott Jr., Xander Berkeley
  • Release Date: 6 November, 2020

IMDb: 6.1 | Tomatometer: 91% | Audience Score: 62% | Average: 71.3

  • Resting Heart Rate: 64 BPM
  • Movie Heart Rate: 80 BPM
  • Highest Spike Rate: 88 BPM
  • Overall Difference: 16
  • Scare Score: 74

The Dark and the Wicked doesn’t waste any time. Right from the beginning, something feels wrong. The story is about two siblings who return to their family farm while their father is dying, but it soon becomes clear that something else is already there and isn’t leaving. The movie doesn’t use a complicated plot. Instead, it builds a steady sense of dread, making even the quiet scenes feel tense. It’s simple but deeply unsettling, which is probably why it stays with you long after it ends.

The Descent | Image: Lions Gate

15. The Descent

  • Genre: Horror, Adventure
  • Director: Neil Marshall
  • Starring: Shauna Macdonald, Natalie Mendoza, Alex Reid
  • Release Date: 8 July, 2005

IMDb: 7.2 | Tomatometer: 87% | Popcornmeter: 76% | Average: 81.5

  • Resting Heart Rate: 64 BPM
  • Movie Heart Rate: 79 BPM
  • Highest Spike Rate: 121 BPM
  • Overall Difference: 15
  • Scare Score: 74

Calling The Descent claustrophobic is an understatement. It starts as a simple cave trip, but soon gets much more intense than anyone expected. The story follows a group of friends as they go deep underground. When things begin to go wrong, the situation quickly moves from uncomfortable to truly dangerous, especially since there’s no clear way out. The movie really focuses on the feeling of being stuck, using tight spaces and poor visibility to build tension. Once the chaos begins, it never stops, making it hard to relax. That’s a big reason why the film stays with you.

Paranormal Activity | Paramount Pictures

16. Paranormal Activity

  • Genre: Horror
  • Director: Oren Peli
  • Starring: Katie Featherston, Micah Sloat
  • Release Date: 14 October, 2007

IMDb: 6.3 | Tomatometer: 82% | Popcornmeter: 57% | Average: 67.3

  • Resting Heart Rate: 64 BPM
  • Movie Heart Rate: 80 BPM
  • Highest Spike Rate: 115 BPM
  • Overall Difference: 16
  • Scare Score: 73

It doesn’t look like much at first, but Paranormal Activity is one of those films that slowly gets under your skin the longer you watch it, thanks to its simple setup. The story follows a couple who begin documenting strange occurrences in their home, hoping to understand what’s going on. As the nights pass, things escalate in unexpected ways. The film relies on a quiet, slow build, using stillness and subtle shifts to create tension. Once it clicks, it’s hard not to feel uneasy, even when nothing obvious happens.

The Babadook | Image: Umbrella Entertainment

17. The Babadook

  • Genre: Horror, Drama
  • Director: Jennifer Kent
  • Starring: Essie Davis, Noah Wiseman
  • Release Date: 24 October, 2014

IMDb: 6.8 | Tomatometer: 98% | Popcornmeter: 72% | Average: 79.3

  • Resting Heart Rate: 64 BPM
  • Movie Heart Rate: 79 BPM
  • Highest Spike Rate: 119 BPM
  • Overall Difference: 15
  • Scare Score: 72

Grief and horror don’t always go together, but The Babadook makes it feel natural. The story follows a mother and her son as they cope with loss after a strange children’s book arrives and things start to feel wrong. The more they try to ignore it, the more unsettling everything becomes. Unlike most horror movies, it doesn’t rely on constant scares. Instead, it slowly builds a sense of unease that lingers.

A Quite Place Part II | Image: Paramount Pictures

18. A Quiet Place Part II

  • Genre: Horror, Thriller
  • Director: John Krasinski
  • Starring: Emily Blunt, Cillian Murphy, Millicent Simmonds
  • Release Date: 28 May, 2021

IMDb: 7.2 | Tomatometer: 91% | Popcornmeter: 92% | Average: 85

  • Resting Heart Rate: 64 BPM
  • Movie Heart Rate: 80 BPM
  • Highest Spike Rate: 123 BPM
  • Overall Difference: 16
  • Scare Score: 71

Continuing from the events of the first film, A Quiet Place Part II expands the world without losing what made the original so tense. It follows the family as they move beyond their home and realize that staying silent isn’t the only thing they need to worry about. The film maintains that pressure throughout, with even the smallest sound feeling risky. While it opens things up more, it still holds onto the tight, uneasy feeling that made the first one stand out.

The Autopsy of Jane Doe | Image: 42

19. The Autopsy of Jane Doe

  • Genre: Horror, Mystery
  • Director: André Øvredal
  • Starring: Brian Cox, Emile Hirsch, Ophelia Lovibond
  • Release Date: 21 December, 2016

IMDb: 6.8 | Tomatometer: 86% | Popcornmeter: 72% | Average: 75.3

  • Resting Heart Rate: 64 BPM
  • Movie Heart Rate: 78 BPM
  • Highest Spike Rate: 122 BPM
  • Overall Difference: 14
  • Scare Score: 70

It starts like a normal night in the morgue, but The Autopsy of Jane Doe soon feels strange. A father-and-son coroner team look at an unidentified woman found at a violent crime scene. Right away, nothing adds up, especially since her body isn’t what you’d expect. The more they investigate, the weirder it gets. There are signs that something was off at the crime scene from the beginning. As the examination deepens, the situation grows darker. What makes it work well is how everything feels so confined. The film keeps you stuck in one place while things quietly get worse, turning a controlled setting into something truly disturbing.

Insidious: Chapter 2 | Image: FilmDistrict

20. Insidious: Chapter 2

  • Genre: Horror
  • Director: James Wan
  • Starring: Patrick Wilson, Rose Byrne, Ty Simpkins
  • Release Date: 13 September, 2013

IMDb: 6.6 | Tomatometer: 38% | Popcornmeter: 57% | Average: 53.6

  • Resting Heart Rate: 64 BPM
  • Movie Heart Rate: 78 BPM
  • Highest Spike Rate: 118 BPM
  • Overall Difference: 14
  • Scare Score: 70

It didn’t win over critics when it first came out, with many saying it lacked the original’s tension. However, Insidious: Chapter 2 has been viewed differently over time, as reflected in how viewers actually respond to it. The film continues the story of Josh and Renai Lambert, going deeper into what’s really happening and exploring the history behind the presence tied to their past. It focuses more on tying together parts of the first film than on trying to be better than it. While it can feel confusing at times, there’s enough to keep it fun, especially if you want something entertaining without thinking too much.

Oddity | Image: Independent Film Company

21. Oddity

  • Genre: Horror
  • Director: Damian Mc Carthy
  • Starring: Carolyn Bracken, Gwilym Lee, Tadhg Murphy
  • Release Date: 2024

IMDb: 6.7 | Tomatometer: 96% | Popcornmeter: 77% | Average: 80

  • Resting Heart Rate: 64 BPM
  • Movie Heart Rate: 77 BPM
  • Highest Spike Rate: 108 BPM
  • Overall Difference: 13
  • Scare Score: 69

This is one of those films that quietly draws you in without making a fuss. Honestly, we didn’t expect it to stay with us as much as it did. Oddity follows a woman as she tries to figure out what happened to her sister. The more she investigates, the more things feel strange in a way that’s hard to describe. It keeps everything simple and doesn’t use any flashy features. This helps because the tension builds naturally through small details rather than big events. It’s a slower watch, but if you give it time, it leaves a stronger impression than you might expect.

The Ring | Image: Paramount Pictures

22. The Ring

  • Genre: Horror, Mystery
  • Director: Gore Verbinski
  • Starring: Naomi Watts, Martin Henderson, Brian Cox
  • Release Date: 18 October, 2002

IMDb: 7.1 | Tomatometer: 72% | Popcornmeter: 48% | Average: 63.6

  • Resting Heart Rate: 64 BPM
  • Movie Heart Rate: 78 BPM
  • Highest Spike Rate: 114 BPM
  • Overall Difference: 14
  • Scare Score: 69

Seven days doesn’t sound like much, but The Ring turns that idea into something that lingers. The film follows a journalist investigating a strange videotape linked to a series of deaths. Once she watches it herself, everything becomes more urgent. It’s a simple idea, but it works, especially as the tension builds around the countdown and the sense that something is coming, whether you’re ready or not.

Terrifier 2 | Image: Cineverse

23. Terrifier 2

  • Genre: Horror
  • Director: Damien Leone
  • Starring: Lauren LaVera, David Howard Thornton, Elliott Fullam
  • Release Date: 6 October, 2022

IMDb: 6.0 | Tomatometer: 87% | Popcornmeter: 81% | Average: 76

  • Resting Heart Rate: 64 BPM
  • Movie Heart Rate: 78 BPM
  • Highest Spike Rate: 91 BPM
  • Overall Difference: 14
  • Scare Score: 68

Clowns have always scared people, and if you’re one of them, Terrifier 2 leans into that with Art the Clown, who takes it to a whole new level. The film shows his return as he goes on a violent rampage, fully commits to its style, and goes further than most horror movies, which is why it gets the reactions it does. It’s definitely not for everyone, but if you know what to expect, it delivers just that.

Bring Her Back | Image: A24

24. Bring Her Back

  • Genre: Horror
  • Director: Danny Philippou, Michael Philippou
  • Starring: Sally Hawkins, Billy Barratt, Sora Wong
  • Release Date: 2025

IMDb: 7.1 | Tomatometer: 89% | Popcornmeter: 79% | Average: 79.6

  • Resting Heart Rate: 64 BPM
  • Movie Heart Rate: 78 BPM
  • Highest Spike Rate: 81 BPM
  • Overall Difference: 14
  • Scare Score: 68

Bring Her Back already feels like it’s going to lean into something a bit heavier than a typical horror movie, especially since it’s from the same directors behind Talk to Me. While there isn’t much official information yet, the story focuses on grief and the struggle to let go, which usually doesn’t end well in this genre. It seems the film will focus more on mood and feeling rather than nonstop scares, and if it succeeds like their last film, it could be one that stays with viewers longer than expected.

Terrifier 3 | Image: Cineverse

25. Terrifier 3

  • Genre: Horror
  • Director: Damien Leone
  • Starring: David Howard Thornton, Lauren LaVera
  • Release Date: 11 October, 2024

IMDb: 6.2 | Tomatometer: 78% | Popcornmeter: 85% | Average: 75

  • Resting Heart Rate: 64 BPM
  • Movie Heart Rate: 79 BPM
  • Highest Spike Rate: 81 BPM
  • Overall Difference: 15
  • Scare Score: 68

Art the Clown is back. If you’ve seen the earlier films, you know it won’t hold back. Terrifier 3 keeps the same extreme style and goes even further. It keeps the creepy feeling that makes the character unique. The film stays true to what the series does best, focusing on shock and intensity over subtlety. It’s not for everyone, but it knows the experience it wants to give and sticks to it.

The Ring | Image: Paramount Pictures

The Complete List of the Scariest Movies, According to Science

The Science of Scare study didn’t stop at the top picks; it went further, ranking a full list of 50 films based on how audiences actually reacted. There are some familiar names in here, along with a few that might surprise you, so here’s the complete list in order.

  1. Sinister
  2. Host
  3. Skinamarink
  4. Insidious
  5. The Conjuring
  6. Hereditary
  7. Smile 2
  8. Smile
  9. The Exorcism of Emily Rose
  10. Talk to Me
  11. Hell House LLC
  12. The Conjuring 2 (equal 12th)
  13. It Follows (equal 12th)
  14. The Dark and The Wicked (equal 12th)
  15. The Descent
  16. Paranormal Activity
  17. The Babadook
  18. A Quiet Place Part 2
  19. The Autopsy of Jane Doe
  20. Insidious 2
  21. Oddity
  22. The Ring
  23. Terrifier 2
  24. Bring Her Back
  25. Terrifier 3
  26. Stopmotion
  27. A Quiet Place
  28. Texas Chainsaw Massacre (1974)
  29. Barbarian
  30. A Nightmare on Elm Street (1984)
  31. Halloween (1978)
  32. Insidious: The Red Door
  33. Hush
  34. The Nun 2
  35. The Exorcist
  36. The Visit
  37. IT (2017)
  38. The Conjuring: The Devil Made Me Do It
  39. The Blair Witch Project
  40. Paranormal Activity 2
  41. Evil Dead Rise
  42. Immaculate
  43. Lights Out
  44. Longlegs
  45. Saw X
  46. 28 Days Later (equal 46th)
  47. The Grudge (equal 46th)
  48. Oculus
  49. The Conjuring: Last Rites
  50. Weapons

The Science of Scare

The Science of Scare study looks at the “scariest movie” question in a new way, and it seems more logical than simply asking for opinions. Run by MoneySuperMarket, the process is straightforward: gather a group of people, have them watch a selection of horror movies, and monitor their physical reactions. For this study, about 50 people watched about 120 hours of horror films, providing a broad range of reactions.

The way the films are selected makes the study effective. Rather than picking movies at random, the list draws on fan favourites, online conversations, and recommendations. This means you see both well-known classics and newer films. The result is a more balanced selection, not just a repeat of the usual choices.

As participants watch the movies, their heart rates are monitored from resting levels to measure how much they rise during each film, especially during scenes that elicit strong reactions. The study also records the highest heart rate spikes during key moments, pinpointing exactly when tension peaks. This data is used to calculate an overall score that determines the rankings. This approach stands out because it measures real-time reactions rather than what people recall afterward.

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Watches

From Tuxedos to Tick-Tocks: The Best Watches We Couldn’t Ignore at the 2025 Met Gala

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The first Monday in May once again transformed Manhattan into the world’s most glamorous runway, as the 2025 Met Gala took centre stage with its bold theme, Superfine: Tailoring Black Style. This year’s event honoured the cultural and artistic impact of the Black community, with designers creating pieces that told powerful stories rooted in history and style. On the red carpet, icons like Ozwald Boateng, Fear of God, and Louis Vuitton showcased masterful tailoring, while houses from Ralph Lauren to Tiffany & Co. reminded everyone why they lead the luxury conversation.

Yet, for those who know where to look, the real treasures weren’t just in the suits and gowns — they were quietly ticking on the wrists of the night’s biggest stars. The 2025 Met Gala showcased a watch lineup that could make any collector’s heart race. Usher flashed a striking Jaeger-LeCoultre, Jalen Hurts chose the understated elegance of a Breitling Navitimer, and A$AP Rocky, co-hosting alongside Pharrell Williams, Colman Domingo, and Lewis Hamilton, sported Bvlgari’s ultra-thin Octo Finissima Ultra. Pusha T illuminated the room with a “Rainbow” Rolex Daytona, while Henry Golding featured Cartier’s latest creation, the Tank à Guichet. This wasn’t just a celebration of fashion — it was a masterclass in how the perfect watch can define a moment.

Best Watches from Met Gala 2025

While the gowns and tailoring had the fashion world buzzing, our focus was on the wrists. This year’s Met Gala showcased a watch lineup that combined timeless craftsmanship with bold design, featuring everything from ultra-thin marvels to jewel-encrusted showstoppers. Each timepiece brought its own flair to the red carpet, proving that in 2025, the standout Met Gala moments weren’t just worn — they were ticking with style.

A$AP Rocky’s Bvlgari Octo Finissimo Ultra | Image: Getty Images – Jamie McCarthy

A$AP Rocky – Bulgari Octo Finissimo Ultra COSC

  • Brand: Bvlgari
  • Model: Octo Finissimo Ultra COSC
  • Reference: 104081
  • Diameter: 40 mm
  • Thickness: 1.80 mm
  • Material: Titanium
  • Dial Colour: Mechanical Skeleton
  • Calibre: BVL180 calibre
  • Power Reserve:  50 Hours
  • Price:  USD $678,000 (Limited Edition – 20 Pieces)

When you’re co-hosting the Met Gala alongside Rihanna — who had the world buzzing with her latest baby news — every detail matters. A$AP Rocky ensured his wrist game was as headline-worthy as the event itself, wearing the world’s thinnest watch, the Bulgari Octo Finissimo Ultra COSC. At just 1.8mm thick, it’s an engineering record-breaker that’s as much a conversation starter as it is a timekeeper. Limited to only 20 pieces and certified by COSC for accuracy, it’s a watch that quietly says, “I know exactly what I’m wearing.”

Made from titanium, the case combines lightness with strength, creating a watch that feels airy despite its bold, architectural design. The sandblasted surface reflects light beautifully, and the mechanical skeleton dial showcases the BVL180 calibre — an incredibly slim movement that still offers a 50-hour power reserve. It’s a perfect blend of technical innovation with minimalist style.

In a night filled with glittering jewels and larger-than-life fashion statements, Rocky’s Octo Finissimo Ultra COSC was the ultimate understated statement. It didn’t need to shout for attention, but for those who understand horology, it was impossible to overlook. Titanium, ultra-thin mastery, and a design that combines cutting-edge engineering with red carpet sophistication — it was the ideal pick for a man who knows how to let the details do the talking.

Usher’s Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso One Duetto | Image: Getty Images – Kevin Mazur

Usher – Jaeger LeCoultre Reverso One Duetto

  • Brand: Jaeger-LeCoultre
  • Model: Reverso One Duetto
  • Reference: Q336247J
  • Dimensions: 40 x 20 mm
  • Thickness: 9.09 mm
  • Material: Pink Gold 18K
  • Dial Colour: Recto – Silvered Grey / Verso – Black
  • Calibre: Jaeger-LeCoultre Calibre 844
  • Power Reserve:  50 Hours
  • Water Resistant: 3 Bar ( 30 metres, 100 feet)
  • Price:  USD $51,500

Fresh off his unforgettable 2024 Super Bowl halftime show, Usher kept the spotlight firmly on his wrist at the 2025 Met Gala. He chose the Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso One Duetto, a watch that embodies timeless elegance and the duality of modern style. The Reverso, with its signature swivelling case, has always been a canvas for creativity, but the One Duetto takes it a step further — offering two distinct personalities in one slim and refined design. For a performer who thrives on versatility, it was the perfect red carpet companion.

Usher’s version came in warm 18K pink gold, measuring 40 x 20 mm with a graceful 9.09 mm thickness. The watch featured a silvered grey dial on the front, pared back and refined, while the back revealed a bold black dial for a moodier, after-dark look. Inside beats Jaeger-LeCoultre’s Calibre 844, a hand-wound movement delivering a 50-hour power reserve — a testament to the brand’s watchmaking mastery. Even with its elegance, the Reverso maintains a practical edge with water resistance up to 30 metres, balancing beauty with functionality.

On a night filled with larger-than-life fashion statements, Usher’s choice was subtle, sophisticated, and quietly confident. Priced at USD $51,500, the Reverso One Duetto isn’t just a watch — it’s a piece of jewellery in its own right, blending high jewellery and fine horology seamlessly. Like Usher himself, it exudes charm and depth, demonstrating that true style isn’t about loudness but about presence.

Colman Domingo’s Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch Professional in Moonshine Gold | Images: Getty Images – Gilbert Carrasquillo

Colman Domingo – Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch Professional in Moonshine Gold

  • Brand: Omega
  • Model: Speedmaster Moonwatch Professional
  • Reference:  310.60.42.50.99.002
  • Diameter: 42
  • Thickness: 13.18 mm
  • Material: 18K Moonshine™ Gold
  • Dial Colour: Yellow
  • Calibre: Omega 3861
  • Power Reserve:  50 Hours
  • Water Resistant: 5 Bar ( 50 metres, 165 feet)
  • Price:  USD $47,200

Colman Domingo has never been one to blend into the background, and at the 2025 Met Gala, he made sure his wrist commanded as much attention as his tailored outfit. His choice? The Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch Professional in Moonshine Gold — a watch that’s as rich in history as it is in glamour.

Moonshine Gold is Omega’s exclusive 18K alloy, crafted to shine more softly and subtly than traditional yellow gold. On the Met Gala red carpet, it caught the light beautifully, complementing the sun-brushed green dial and the black ceramic bezel engraved with the Speedmaster’s iconic tachymeter scale. It was bold yet understated, elegant without appearing overdone.

Beneath that golden case lies Omega’s Calibre 3861, a manually-wound Master Chronometer movement that resists magnetism, offers a 50-hour power reserve, and brings modern reliability to the Speedmaster’s lunar heritage. It’s the kind of calibre that proves this watch isn’t just for display — it’s built to perform.

For Domingo, the Moonshine Gold Speedmaster was more than just a stylish accessory; it was a symbol of power and sophistication. During a night dedicated to culture, storytelling, and influence, his choice of this iconic chronograph served as the perfect finishing touch — a golden reminder that some watches aren’t just worn, they’re experienced.

Pusha T’s Rolex Rainbow Cosmograph Daytona Pink Gold | Image: Getty Images – Cindy Ord

Pusha T – Rolex Rainbow Cosmograph Daytona Pink Gold

  • Brand: Rolex
  • Model: Rainbow Rolex Cosmograph Daytona
  • Reference: 116595RBOW-0001
  • Diameter: 40 mm
  • Thickness: 12.5 mm
  • Material: Rose Gold
  • Dial Colour: Black
  • Calibre: Rolex 4130
  • Power Reserve:  72 Hours
  • Water Resistant: 10 Bar ( 100 metres, 330 feet)
  • Price:  Varies

If rare and extravagant is your thing, Pusha T’s wrist at the 2025 Met Gala was one to remember. The rapper arrived with the Rolex Cosmograph Daytona “Rainbow” in pink gold — a watch so bold it almost demands its own spotlight. Made in 18K Everose gold, the case was encrusted with diamonds and topped with a bezel of baguette-cut sapphires that shift through every colour of the spectrum. Add white diamonds on the lugs and crown guards, and you’ve got a timepiece that blurs the line between high jewellery and serious watchmaking.

Rolex doesn’t cut corners when it comes to creating timepieces like this. According to Christie’s, which listed a Rainbow Daytona at auction in 2024, the brand takes meticulous care to hand-select and match every single stone, ensuring each sapphire in the bezel is the exact shade it should be. It’s a process that reflects Rolex’s obsession with detail, and part of what makes the Rainbow Daytona one of the most coveted gem-set watches in the world.

First introduced in 2012, the Daytona Rainbow has since gained cult status, becoming one of Rolex’s most impressive and sought-after creations. Underneath the sparkle is the Rolex Calibre 4130, an automatic chronograph movement known for its exceptional reliability and a 72-hour power reserve. Even in its most flamboyant form, the Daytona still reflects the heritage of a racing chronograph.

For Pusha T, wearing the Rainbow Daytona to fashion’s biggest night was more than just a flex — it was a statement. It said that watches, like music, can be bold, rare, and unforgettable. And in a sea of diamonds and couture, his Rainbow Rolex still managed to steal the spotlight.

Simone Biles’s Audemars Piguet Mini Frosted Royal Oak In White Gold | Image: Getty Images – Lexie Moreland

Simone Biles – Audemars Piguet Mini Frosted Royal Oak In White Gold

  • Brand: Audemars Piguet
  • Model:  Royal Oak
  • Reference: 67630BC.GG.1312BC.01-B
  • Diameter: 23 mm
  • Thickness: 6.6 mm
  • Material: 18K White Gold
  • Dial Colour: White Gold Toned
  • Calibre: 2730
  • Power Reserve:  Quartz
  • Water Resistant: 5 Bar ( 50 metres, 165 feet)
  • Price:  USD $38,000

Simone Biles may be the most decorated gymnast in history, but at the 2025 Met Gala, she showed that her elegance is just as commanding as her athleticism. On her wrist was the Audemars Piguet Mini Frosted Royal Oak in white gold — a stunning reinterpretation of one of watchmaking’s most iconic designs. With its petite 23 mm case, the Mini Royal Oak captures the bold lines of the original in a refined and delicate way. The frosted finish, created using a centuries-old Florentine technique, gave the white gold an icy sparkle under the lights, making the watch feel as much a piece of jewellery as a timepiece.

Powered by a quartz movement, the Mini Frosted Royal Oak emphasizes artistry over mechanical complexity. Its octagonal bezel and shimmering bracelet add subtle glamour to Biles’ red carpet look, a perfect match for a woman who combines strength with elegance. Small in size but impactful, her choice of watch reminds us that sometimes the most refined packages hold the boldest statements.

Doechii’s Tiffany Eternity Watch In Yellow Gold With Diamonds & Mother-Of-Pearl Dial | Image: Getty Images – Kevin Mazur

Doechii – Tiffany & CO. Eternity Watch In Yellow Gold With Diamonds & Mother-Of-Pearl Dial

  • Brand: Tiffany & CO.
  • Model:  Eternity
  • Reference: 75589522
  • Material: 18K Yellow Gold
  • Dial Colour: Mother Of Pearl Dial
  • Power Reserve:  Quartz
  • Water Resistant: 5 Bar ( 50 metres, 165 feet)
  • Price:  USD $150,000

Rapper and style chameleon Doechii brought a bold sparkle to the Met Gala, and her choice of wristwear ensured it didn’t go unnoticed. She arrived wearing the Tiffany Eternity Watch in yellow gold, a piece that balances high jewellery flair with the elegance of fine watchmaking. Set with brilliant diamonds around the bezel and bracelet, the watch shimmered with every movement, while its luminous mother-of-pearl dial added a softer, romantic touch. Small in size but rich in detail, it was the kind of watch that could stand out alongside gowns and jewels, yet still felt effortlessly wearable.

Powered by a quartz movement, the Eternity Watch focuses less on horological complexity and more on timeless design. Crafted in radiant yellow gold and adorned with diamonds, it captured the spirit of extravagance at the Met Gala while paying homage to Tiffany’s legacy as a jeweller to the stars. On Doechii’s wrist, it became more than just an accessory — it was a statement of daring glamour, radiant confidence, and unapologetic luxury.

Walton Goggin’s Vacheron Constantin Traditionelle Complete Calendar Openface | Image: Getty Images – Kevin Mazur

Walton Goggin – Vacheron Constantin Traditionelle Complete Calendar Openface

  • Brand: Vacheron Constantin
  • Model: Traditionelle Complete Calendar Openface
  • Reference: 4020T/000P-H038
  • Diameter: 41 mm
  • Thickness: 11.05 mm
  • Material: Platinum
  • Dial Colour: Silver-Toned Openface Dial 
  • Power Reserve:  Self-Winding
  • Water Resistant: 3 Bar ( 30 metres, 100 feet)
  • Price:  USD $72,500 (Limited Edition – 350 Pieces)

Walton Goggins has built his career on portraying layered, memorable characters, so it’s no surprise that his watch choice at the 2025 Met Gala reflected the same depth. On his wrist was the Vacheron Constantin Traditionnelle Complete Calendar Openface (Ref. 4020T/000P-H038), a platinum timepiece limited to just 350 pieces worldwide. Measuring 41 mm across and only 11.05 mm thick, it had proportions that feel sleek and elegant, but what truly drew attention was the silver-toned openface dial — a design that allows you to see into the heart of the movement while still offering a clear display of the full calendar and moonphase.

This isn’t a watch that demands attention. Instead, it draws you in gradually, much like Goggins himself commands a scene. The self-winding movement underneath the dial powers not only the complications but also the story the watch shares: one of balance, craftsmanship, and understated excellence. Even with water resistance up to 30 metres, it’s not about practicality — it’s about showcasing a piece of horology that connects centuries of tradition with a distinctly modern touch.

With a price tag of USD $72,500, the Traditionnelle Complete Calendar Openface is as exclusive as it sounds, and that’s precisely why it suits Goggins so well. On a night where flash and sparkle took centre stage, his choice was deliberate, thoughtful, and refined. It wasn’t about being the loudest in the room — it was about wearing something that, like him, reveals its brilliance the closer you look.

Burna Boy’s Jacob & Co. Caviar Tourbillon | Image: Getty Images – Kevin Mazur

Burna Boy – Jacob & Co. Caviar Tourbillon

  • Brand: Jacob & Co.
  • Model: Caviar Tourbillon
  • Reference: CV310.30.BA.AA.A
  • Diameter: 44 mm
  • Thickness: 15.85 mm
  • Material: 18K White Gold
  • Dial Colour: 18K White Gold
  • Caliber: JCAA43
  • Power Reserve:  42 Hours
  • Water Resistant: 3 Bar ( 30 metres, 100 feet)
  • Price:  Upon Request (Limited Edition – 18 Pieces)

When Burna Boy takes the stage — or in this case, the Met Gala red carpet — you can count on him to bring energy, extravagance, and a bit of fire. His choice of wristwear was no different. The Nigerian superstar wore the Jacob & Co. Caviar Tourbillon, a timepiece that’s less of a watch and more of a high jewellery masterpiece. Known for crafting some of the boldest designs in modern watchmaking, Jacob & Co. transformed the Caviar into a full spectacle, and Burna Boy wore it as if it was made just for him.

The watch’s case is adorned with an array of baguette-cut precious stones, meticulously arranged in a stunning mosaic that sparkles with every flash of the camera. At its centre sits a flying tourbillon, a complication as technically remarkable as it is visually captivating, surrounded by the kind of gem-setting only a select few watchmakers worldwide can achieve. This isn’t a timepiece you wear to blend in — it’s one you choose when you want your wrist to shine as brightly as your presence.

For Burna Boy, the Caviar Tourbillon was the perfect reflection of his personality: bold, unapologetic, and impossible to ignore. On a night where luxury and artistry collided, his Jacob & Co. creation was pure spectacle, cementing his reputation as a man who doesn’t just follow the beat — he sets it.

Shah Rukh Khan Wearing A Patek Philippe Minute Repeater Perpetual Calendar | Image: Getty Images

Shah Rukh Khan – Patek Philippe Minute Repeater Perpetual Calendar

  • Brand: Patek Philippe
  • Model: Minute Repeater Perpetual Calendar
  • Reference: Ref. 5304/301R
  • Diameter: 43 mm
  • Thickness: 13.3 mm
  • Material: Rose Gold
  • Dial Colour: White gold skeletonized leaf-shaped hands – black varnished
  • Caliber: R 27 PS QR LU
  • Power Reserve:  48 Hours
  • Water Resistant: Not Water Resistance
  • Price:  Upon Request

When you’re Shah Rukh Khan, the Baadshah of Bollywood, your very presence commands a room, and at the 2025 Met Gala, he didn’t need a classic tuxedo to leave an impression. His wrist told the story instead, carrying a Patek Philippe Minute Repeater Perpetual Calendar — one of the most prestigious and technically advanced watches in existence. A masterpiece that combines the chiming elegance of a minute repeater with the timeless practicality of a perpetual calendar, it was a choice that exuded refinement and mastery.

With the Caliber R 27 PS QR LU, an in-house movement that combines complexity with elegance, featuring a 48-hour power reserve. Crafted in precious metal with a dial that balances intricate detail and restraint, the watch is as technically impressive as it is visually understated. On a night marked by bold fashion and louder statements, Shah Rukh’s Patek was pure authority on the wrist — a reminder that true luxury doesn’t need to shout. It simply resonates.

Lorde’s Cartier Baignoire Watch | Image: Getty Images – Taylor Hill

Lorde – Cartier Baignoire

  • Brand: Cartier
  • Model: Baignoire Jewellery
  • Reference: CRHPI01528
  • Dimensions: 24.8 x 17.1 mm
  • Thickness: 8.3 mm
  • Material: White Gold
  • Dial Colour: White Gold With 131 brilliant-cut diamonds totalling
  • Caliber: Quartz
  • Power Reserve:  48 Hours
  • Water Resistant: 3 Bar (30 metres, 100 feet)
  • Price:  EUR €197,000 – USD $230,000

Lorde has always embraced a style that’s quietly rebellious — refined yet unique, with her own edge. At the 2025 Met Gala, she stayed true to her style with the Cartier Baignoire in white gold, a watch that perfectly reflects her aesthetic. Originally introduced in the 1910s, the Baignoire has long been a symbol of subtle elegance, characterized by its elongated oval case that feels both timeless and unconventional.

This particular version was crafted in 18K white gold, adorned with 131 brilliant-cut diamonds across the case, giving the timepiece a jewellery-like brilliance that sparkled under the red carpet lights. Its minimalist dial design kept the focus on the oval silhouette and shimmering stones, while Cartier’s signature cabochon crown added the perfect finishing touch. Powered by a quartz movement, the watch emphasises style and elegance over mechanical complexity, making it as practical as it is beautiful. On Lorde’s wrist, the Baignoire wasn’t just a watch; it was a quiet statement that true style resides in timeless simplicity.

Tramell Tillman’s Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso Tribute Duoface Tourbillon | Image: Getty Images – Jamie McCarthy

Tramell Tillman – Jaeger LeCoultre Reverso Tribute Duoface Tourbillon

  • Brand: Jaeger-LeCoultre
  • Model: Reverso Tribute Duoface Tourbillon
  • Reference: Q392242J
  • Dimensions: 45.5 x 27.4 mm
  • Thickness: 9.14 mm
  • Material: Rose Gold
  • Dial Colour: Recto dial – Silvered grey / Verso dial – Black
  • Calibre: Calibre 847
  • Power Reserve:  38 Hours
  • Water Resistant: 3 Bar (30 metres, 100 feet)
  • Price: USD $139,000  

Tramell Tillman brought refined confidence at the 2025 Met Gala, and his wristwear was as refined as his overall presence. He wore the Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso Tribute Duoface Tourbillon, encased in a 45.5 x 27.4 mm rose gold case that embodied all the Art Deco charm of the Reverso while elevating it into haute horlogerie territory. The swivelling case uncovered two distinct personalities — a silvered grey recto dial on one side, elegant and understated, and a black verso dial on the other, darker and more contemporary. It was a timepiece that felt perfectly in harmony with the evening, blending heritage with bold self-expression.

The flying tourbillon, visible on both dials, seemed to float effortlessly within the ultra-thin case—a remarkable feat of watchmaking that reflected the light as sharply as the cameras at the Met Gala. Adding to its appeal, this model is no longer part of Jaeger-LeCoultre’s current collection, making it an even rarer and more meaningful choice for the red carpet. For Tillman, the Reverso wasn’t just a watch — it was a declaration of artistry and quiet strength, the kind of piece that rewards those who take a closer look.

Stormzy’s Patek Philippe Nautilus | Image: Getty Image – Matt Crossick

Stormzy – Patek Philippe Nautilus

  • Brand: Patek Philippe
  • Model: Nautilus
  • Reference: 5711/110P-001
  • Diameter: 40 mm
  • Thickness: 8.3 mm
  • Material: Platinum Diamonds
  • Dial Colour: Grey Dial
  • Calibre: 324 S C 324 S C
  • Power Reserve:  45 Hours
  • Water Resistant: 10 Bar (100 metres, 330 feet)
  • Price: Starting USD $500,000

Stormzy has built his reputation on presence — commanding, bold, and effortlessly cool — and his wrist at the 2025 Met Gala radiated that same energy. The British rapper wore the Patek Philippe Nautilus 5711/110P-001, one of the most sought-after watches of the past decade, and one that’s as much a cultural symbol as it is a piece of haute horlogerie. Made in platinum, the 40 mm case shimmered under the Met Gala lights, but what truly set this Nautilus apart was the bezel, set with 32 flawless baguette-cut diamonds that added an extra flash of brilliance to the iconic design.

The dial features Patek’s signature horizontally embossed pattern in a rich grey, adding depth and texture to the watch’s sporty yet luxurious character. Inside ticks the automatic Calibre 26-330 S C, providing a 35 to 45-hour power reserve — proof that beneath its jewel-set exterior, this Nautilus remains a serious mechanical timepiece.

On a night focused on tailoring and cultural identity, Stormzy’s choice was perfectly suited. The Nautilus 5711/110P-001 is rare, commanding, and immediately recognizable — much like the man himself.

Janelle Monáe’s Watch Moncole | Image: Getty Images – Kevin Mazur

Janelle Monáe’s Watch Moncole

Janelle Monáe has never been afraid to break rules, and at the 2025 Met Gala she showed everyone why she’s one of fashion’s true originals. Instead of choosing a traditional wristwatch, she went with a completely different option — a watch monocle. It was a playful, avant-garde twist that blurred the line between accessory and statement piece, fitting perfectly with Monáe’s reputation for bending genres and expectations, both in music and style.

The monocle itself exuded all the drama you’d expect, swinging elegantly like jewellery while still functioning as a watch. Among a sea of haute couture gowns and sparkling jewels, her choice stood out as one of the most unconventional horological statements of the night. It wasn’t about accuracy or practicality — it was about personality. For Monáe, the watch monocle was more than just an accessory; it was performance art, a reminder that the Met Gala is as much about storytelling as it is about fashion.

Chris Rock’s Vintage Fred Leighton Watch Brooch | Image: Getty Images – John Shearer

Chris Rock – Vintage Fred Leighton Watch Brooch

Chris Rock skipped the tie and let his accessories do the talking — his choice was a 1920s platinum and diamond lapel watch from Fred Leighton, adding both time and elegance to the 2025 Met Gala. Among a sea of high-tech tourbillons and jewel-encrusted wrist candy, Rock’s vintage brooch served as a reminder that style doesn’t always need to sit on the wrist to make a statement.

With its delicate platinum case, diamond accents, and old-world charm, the piece brought the glamour of the Jazz Age onto the modern red carpet. It was subtle yet distinctive, a nod to history that blended seamlessly with Rock’s sharp persona. Instead of competing with the boldest looks of the night, the Fred Leighton brooch carved out its own space — a unique mix of refinement and character that drew attention for all the right reasons.

Shaboozey’s Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Selfwinding | Image: Getty Image – John Shearer

Shaboozey – Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Self-Winding

  • Brand: Audemars Piguet
  • Model: Royal Oak
  • Reference: 15550BA.OO.1356BA.01
  • Diameter: 37 mm
  • Thickness: 9.3 mm
  • Material: 18-Carat Yellow Gold
  • Dial Colour: Turquoise dial
  • Calibre: Calibre 5900
  • Power Reserve:  60 Hours
  • Water Resistant: 5 Bar (50 metres, 165 feet)
  • Price: USD $69,900

Shaboozey has been redefining music with his country-rap fusion, and at the 2025 Met Gala, he demonstrated he can shift style just as easily. On his wrist was an Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Selfwinding, a watch that’s as much a cultural icon as it is a design marvel. Made from 18-carat yellow gold, its polished edges and brushed surfaces glistened under the lights, while the instantly recognizable octagonal bezel and integrated bracelet completed the look with architectural precision.

What truly made this piece stand out was its turquoise dial — a rare and vivid twist on the Royal Oak’s famous “Grande Tapisserie” pattern. The cool blue-green stone contrasted beautifully with the warmth of the gold case, creating a combination that felt both luxurious and daring. It was a watch that could easily hold its own against the Met Gala’s parade of gems and gowns, but with an edge that was distinctly Shaboozey.

The watch runs on Audemars Piguet’s latest selfwinding calibre 5900, offering a 60-hour power reserve to match its timeless appeal. On a night filled with bold statements, his Royal Oak wasn’t loud or flashy — it was confident, precise, and stylish in a way only true icons can be. For Shaboozey, it was the perfect metaphor: classic roots, modern edge, and built to last.

Maluma’s Jacob & Co. Emerald Billionaire III | Image: Getty Images – Michael Buckner

Maluma – Jacob & Co. Emerald Billionaire III

  • Brand: Jacob & Co.
  • Model: Emerald Billionaire III
  • Reference: BL115.30.AB.UA.A30AB
  • Dimensions: 54 x 40 mm
  • Thickness: 11 mm
  • Material: 18K White Gold
  • Dial Colour: 18K white Gold
  • Calibre: Skeleton, JCAM39
  • Power Reserve:  72 Hours
  • Water Resistant: 3 Bar (30 metres, 100 feet)
  • Price: USD $5,000,000

Maluma knows how to command attention, but at the 2025 Met Gala, it wasn’t just his charisma doing the work. On his wrist, he wore one of the most outrageous watches ever made — the Jacob & Co. Emerald Billionaire III, with a jaw-dropping $5 million price tag. This wasn’t just a timepiece; it was a statement of wealth, taste, and boldness.

The watch is a striking green masterpiece. The case features 76 natural, no-heat emeralds cut in an emerald shape, alongside a single white rose-cut ruby, while the inner ring shines with another 76 emeralds. Look more closely, and even the movement bridges are decorated with 57 white baguette-cut emeralds, turning the mechanics of time into a dazzling display.

Then there’s the bracelet, an art piece in its own right, shimmering under the gala lights with 504 emerald-cut stones. Altogether, the Emerald Billionaire III features 714 natural, no-heat emeralds totaling 147.65 carats. It’s the kind of detail that doesn’t just whisper luxury — it shouts it across the red carpet.

Of course, beneath the mountain of gems, Jacob & Co. still excels in horology. The skeletonised tourbillon movement ensures it’s not just a jewel, but a serious watch. For Maluma, it was the ultimate Met Gala flex: a timepiece that combined extravagance and craftsmanship so smoothly, it became the night’s most unforgettable accessory.

Jeff Goldblum’s Jacob & Co. Ashoka Boutique timepiece | Image: Getty Images – Savion Washington

Jeff Goldblum – Jacob & Co. Ashoka Boutique Timepiece

  • Brand: Jacob & Co.
  • Model: The Slender Ashoka Boutique Watch
  • Reference: 92251191
  • Thickness: 17 mm
  • Material: 18K White Gold
  • Dial Colour: 18K white Gold
  • Calibre: JCGQ01 Quartz
  • Power Reserve:  2 Years
  • Water Resistant: 3 Bar (30 metres, 100 feet)
  • Price: USD $1,200,000

Leave it to Jeff Goldblum to bring a touch of eccentric elegance to the Met Gala. Instead of choosing the usual brands in the watch world, he wore the Jacob & Co. Ashoka Boutique Timepiece, a piece as unconventional and magnetic as the man himself. With its bold design and sparkling diamonds, it was obvious from the moment he stepped onto the carpet that this was no ordinary watch.

The case and bracelet feature 146 Ashoka-cut white diamonds, E-F colour, IF-VS clarity, totaling approximately 60.19 carats, while the dial itself is adorned with 16 additional Ashoka-cut diamonds (about 3.10 carats). In total, there are 162 Ashoka-cut diamonds weighing around 63.29 carats—a remarkable display of gem-setting artistry that transforms the watch into a wearable masterpiece.

Beyond the sparkle, this boutique marvel carries a price tag of $1.2 million and delivers a surprising technical punch. Thanks to its high-efficiency quartz movement, the watch features an impressive two-year power reserve, demonstrating that beauty and practicality can, in fact, coexist in haute horlogerie.

For Jeff, it was the ideal choice: daring, theatrical, and bursting with personality. Just like his signature style, the Ashoka Boutique Timepiece doesn’t whisper elegance—it announces it across the red carpet, ensuring all eyes remain fixed on the wrist of the night’s most eclectic gentleman.

Jalen Hurts’s Breitling Navitimer B01 Chronograph 43 | Image: Getty Images – Kevin Mazur

Jalen Hurts – Breitling Navitimer B01 Chronograph 43

  • Brand: Breitling
  • Model: Navitimer B01 Chronograph 43
  • Reference: AB0138241C1A1
  • Diameter: 43 mm
  • Thickness: 13.7 mm
  • Material: Stainless Steel
  • Dial Colour: Ice Blue
  • Calibre: Breitling 01
  • Power Reserve:  70 Hours
  • Water Resistant: 3 Bar (30 metres, 100 feet)
  • Price: USD $10,300

Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts made a strong case for why athletes often have some of the best watch game. At the Met Gala, he elevated his style with the Breitling Navitimer B01 Chronograph 43, a timepiece that immediately caught the eye with its striking ice blue dial. The colour choice was unexpected yet refreshing, softening the Navitimer’s aviation-inspired tool-watch look with a touch of modern elegance. It was a perfect match with Hurts’ appearance, demonstrating that confidence isn’t just about what you wear — it’s how you wear it.

The Navitimer is more than just a stylish watch. Its 43 mm stainless steel case and iconic circular slide rule bezel honour Breitling’s aviation heritage, while the polished finish makes it suitable for formal occasions. Inside beats the Breitling Manufacture Caliber 01, an automatic movement with a 70-hour power reserve and COSC-certified precision. The chronograph sub-dials add both functionality and depth to the baby blue background, a detail that watch enthusiasts and newcomers alike couldn’t overlook.

Priced at approximately USD $10,300, the Navitimer B01 Chronograph 43 embodies Jalen Hurts—dependable under pressure, built for performance, and stylish enough to attract attention when needed. On the Met Gala stage, it was more than just an accessory; it was a statement piece that showed Hurts excels both on the gridiron and in the world of high fashion.

Regé-Jean Page’s Vintage Heuer Carrera | Image: Getty Images – Dimitrios Kambouris

Regé-Jean Page – Vintage Heuer Carrera

  • Brand: TAG Heuer
  • Model: Carrera
  • Reference: 110.515 CHN Carrera
  • Diameter: 39 mm
  • Thickness: 10 mm
  • Material: 16K Gold Plated Stainless Steel
  • Dial Colour: champagne
  • Calibre: Heuer automatic caliber 12
  • Power Reserve: 42 Hours
  • Water Resistant: Not Water Resistances
  • Price: Starting USD $4,000

When Regé-Jean Page stepped onto the Met Gala carpet, he didn’t need a diamond-dripping statement piece—his vintage Heuer Carrera did all the talking. With its 39 mm case in 16K gold-plated stainless steel and a warm champagne dial, the watch radiated an elegance that was subtle yet commanding. Most recently, the Carrera has been back in the cultural spotlight thanks to Ryan Gosling wearing one in his role as Ken in the Barbie movie, a nod that has introduced this motorsport classic to a new generation of fans.

For Page, the choice felt like a masterstroke. Originally designed for the racetrack, the Carrera’s slim profile and timeless proportions translate effortlessly to black-tie sophistication. Its understated design didn’t compete with his outfit—it elevated it, demonstrating that a watch doesn’t need flash to make a statement. At the Met Gala, under the glow of the cameras, this vintage Carrera reminded everyone why it remains one of the most iconic creations in Heuer’s history.

Pharrell Williams’s Richard Mille RM 74-02 | Image: Getty Images – Michael Loccisano

Pharrell Williams – Richard Mille RM 74-02

  • Brand: Richard Mille
  • Model: RM 74-02
  • Dimensions: 52.63 x 34.40 mm
  • Thickness: 13 mm
  • Material: Gold Carbon TPT & 3N red gold.
  • Dial Colour: skeleton
  • Calibre: CRMT5
  • Power Reserve: 50 Hours
  • Water Resistant: 5 Bar (50 metres, 330 feet)
  • Price: Starting USD $600,00

Pharrell Williams never just blends into a crowd—he sets the tone, and his watch at the Met Gala proved it once more. On his wrist was the Richard Mille RM 74-02, a timepiece as bold and inventive as Pharrell himself. Crafted in red gold with layers of Carbon TPT, the watch radiates warmth and a futuristic edge all at once, perfectly reflecting the musician’s signature mix of luxury and avant-garde style.

What makes the RM 74-02 so captivating is its core: the in-house Caliber CRMT5, a self-winding tourbillon movement engineered for accuracy and strength. Despite its lightweight build, the watch offers impressive performance with a 50-hour power reserve. The skeletonized design lets you see every moving part in action, giving the impression that Pharrell’s creativity reaches even to the gears and bridges of his watch.

With a price tag around USD $600,000, the Richard Mille RM 74-02 isn’t just a watch—it’s wearable art. Pharrell wore it as only he can, not simply as an accessory but as part of his identity: daring, futuristic, and entirely unafraid to push boundaries. Just as he’s redefined music and fashion, his choice of watch reflects a vision that’s always one step ahead of the curve.

Andre 3000’s Cartier Tank Louis Cartier | Image: Getty Images – Taylor Hill

Andree 3000 – Cartier Tank Louis Cartier

  • Brand: Cartier
  • Model: Tank Louis Cartier
  • Reference: WGTA0091
  • Dimensions: 33.7 mm x 25.5 mm
  • Thickness: 13 mm
  • Material: Yellow Gold
  • Dial Colour: Black lacquer dial
  • Calibre: Manual Winding
  • Water Resistant: 3 Bar (30 metres, 100 feet)
  • Price: USD $13,500

André 3000 has always been the kind of artist who moves to his own rhythm, and his watch choice at the Met Gala was no exception. On his wrist sat the Cartier Tank Louis Cartier, a piece that’s been redefining elegance since its debut in 1922. With its clean lines, rectangular case, and minimalist sophistication, the Tank isn’t just a watch—it’s a statement, one that reflects André’s unique ability to blend timeless style with modern individuality.

Crafted in 18k yellow gold, the Tank Louis Cartier captures the timeless Parisian spirit that has made it a favourite among cultural icons from Andy Warhol to Muhammad Ali. The watch features a manual-winding mechanical movement, highlighting Cartier’s commitment to traditional watchmaking. Its minimalist dial and slim profile let it slip effortlessly under a cuff, yet with André’s eclectic style, it looked perfectly at home even in a more daring outfit.

The Tank Louis Cartier is a watch for those who value heritage and craftsmanship, and André 3000 wearing it at the Met Gala felt like a perfect pairing. Just as he keeps surprising fans with innovative reinventions, this watch—nearly a century old in design—still appears remarkably fresh on the red carpet.

Saquon Barkey’s H. Moser Endeavour Tourbillon Concept Vantablack | Image: Getty Images – Dimitrios Kambouris

Saquon Barkey – H. Moser & Cie Endeavour Tourbillon Concept Vantablack

  • Brand: H. Moser & Cie
  • Model: Endeavour Tourbillon Concept Vantablack
  • Reference:  1805-1200
  • Diameter: 40 mm
  • Thickness: 11.2 mm
  • Material: Steel
  • Dial Colour: Vantablack
  • Calibre: HMC 805 
  • Power Reserve: 72 Hours
  • Water Resistant: 3 Bar (30 metres, 100 feet)
  • Price: CHF ₣69,000 – USD $85,500

On the Met Gala carpet, Saquon Barkley demonstrated that sometimes the boldest statements are made through silence. His wrist featured the H. Moser & Cie Endeavour Tourbillon Concept Vantablack, a watch that eliminates distractions and focuses on the essentials: absolute darkness and mechanical excellence. With its Vantablack dial—absorbing 99.965% of light—it creates the illusion of a black hole on the wrist, making the flying tourbillon at 6 o’clock seem as if it’s floating in space. It’s a piece that doesn’t scream for attention but naturally draws it.

Housed in a 40 mm stainless steel case, the watch embodies Moser’s philosophy of minimalism at its most compelling. No indices, no logos, no superfluous details—just pure lines framing a dial that absorbs light entirely. Against Barkley’s Met Gala ensemble, it exuded an aura of quiet confidence, a reminder that elegance isn’t about excess but about precision and restraint.

The HMC 805 automatic calibre, complete with a flying tourbillon and a sturdy 72-hour power reserve. It’s a movement crafted for both performance and aesthetics, with its micro-rotor visible through the sapphire caseback. This mix of minimalistic design and intricate mechanics makes the watch a masterpiece of contrasts—fitting for an athlete like Barkley, who combines strength with finesse.

Priced at USD $85,500, the Endeavour Tourbillon Concept Vantablack is a symbol of refinement in a world often fixated on showiness. In a room filled with diamond-encrusted displays and gemstone-rich timepieces, Barkley’s choice stood out because it was subtle. It whispered luxury instead of shouting it, reaffirming that true style is about presence, not volume.

Khaby Lame’s Assortment Of Pocket Watches | Images: Getty Images – Dimitrios Kambouris

Khaby Lame – Assortment Of Pocket Watches

Khaby Lame caught attention at the Met Gala with an unexpected choice: a variety of vintage pocket watches instead of the usual wristwear. While most stars showcased diamonds, chronographs, and sparkling wristwatches, his pocket watch display felt notably nostalgic, paying homage to horology’s earliest expressions of style. Each timepiece embodied the spirit of a bygone era—engraved cases, polished chains, and intricate movements that reflected a time when carrying a watch was as much about personal expression as it was about telling the time.

By carrying more than one, Lame elevated the accessory from a simple relic of the past to a striking statement piece. His pocket watches weren’t just about punctuality—they were about storytelling, heritage, and personality. In a world obsessed with the latest releases, his choice reminded everyone that sometimes the most stylish move is to look back to the roots of craftsmanship and bring history into the present with effortless flair.

Jeremy Allen White’s Reverso Tribute Monoface Small Seconds | Image: Getty Images – Dimitrios Kambouris

Jeremy Allen White – Reverso Tribute Monoface Small Seconds

  • Brand: Jaeger-LeCoultre
  • Model: Reverso Tribute Monoface Small Seconds
  • Reference: Q7132521
  • Dimensions: 45.6 x 27.4 mm
  • Thickness: 7.56 mm
  • Material: Rose Gold
  • Dial Colour: Silvered grey
  • Calibre: Calibre 822
  • Power Reserve: 42 Hours
  • Water Resistant: 3 Bar (30 metres, 100 feet)
  • Price: USD $23,800

Jeremy Allen White, fresh off his award-winning performance in The Bear, kept his style sharp and timeless at the Met Gala with a Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso Tribute Monoface Small Seconds on his wrist. The Reverso is a piece that thrives on understatement, and Jeremy wore it with the same quiet confidence that defines his on-screen presence. Its rectangular Art Deco case, sleek and slim, perfectly complemented his refined red-carpet look without demanding attention.

Powered by a manual-winding movement, the watch features a small seconds counter at 6 o’clock, adding just the right amount of character to its clean dial. At 45.6 x 27.4 mm in stainless steel, it sits comfortably on the wrist, making it as practical as it is elegant. The Reverso’s renowned swivelling case, originally designed for polo players to flip over and protect the crystal, added a subtle layer of intrigue to White’s ensemble. It was a thoughtful choice—much like the actor himself—classic, refined, and impossible to ignore once noticed.

Tyler Perry’s Richard Mille RM-47 | Image: Getty Images – Savion Washington

Tyler Perry – Richard Mille RM-47

  • Brand: Richard Mille
  • Model: RM-47
  • Dimensions: 42.70 x 50 mm
  • Thickness: 12.5 mm
  • Material: Black Ceramic & Yellow Gold
  • Dial Colour: Miniature Painting
  • Calibre: Calibre RM47
  • Power Reserve: 72 Hours
  • Water Resistant: 3 Bar (30 metres, 100 feet)
  • Price: USD $1,200,000

Tyler Perry arrived at the Met Gala with more than a stylish outfit—he brought symbolism to his wrist. The filmmaker wore the Richard Mille RM 47 Tourbillon, a piece that honours the samurai spirit. At its centre is a hand-engraved 3N yellow gold samurai warrior, crafted as a protector of the movement, embodying values of honour, strength, and discipline. On a night dedicated to artistry and expression, this detail felt especially fitting for Perry’s commanding presence.

The watch itself is a true achievement in haute horlogerie. Limited to only 75 pieces worldwide, it features a 42 mm case crafted from black TZP ceramic and 3N yellow gold, combining boldness with sophistication. Inside, the manual-winding calibre RM47 drives a 72-hour power reserve, ensuring that its beauty is matched by performance. The meticulous hand-engraving and finishing make each piece unique, elevating it far beyond a simple timepiece.

With a staggering price tag of $1.2 million, the RM 47 is as much a statement of exclusivity as it is of craftsmanship. For Perry, this wasn’t about flaunting wealth but showcasing a timepiece that carries heritage and storytelling within its design. In many ways, it mirrored his own career—a blend of artistry, power, and timeless influence.

Henry Golding – Cartier Tank à Guichets | Image: Getty Images – Michael Loccisano

Henry Golding – Cartier Tank à Guichets

  • Brand: Cartier
  • Model: Tank à Guichets
  • Reference: WGTA0234
  • Dimensions: 37.6 x 24.8 mm
  • Thickness: 7.56 mm
  • Material: Yellow Gold
  • Dial Colour: White discs With Green arabic numerals & minute track
  • Calibre: 9755 MC
  • Power Reserve: 72 Hours
  • Water Resistant: No Water Resistant
  • Price: USD $60,000

Henry Golding added quiet sophistication to the Met Gala, choosing one of Cartier’s most refined creations: the Tank à Guichets. Unlike the more common Tanks with open dials, this rare piece removes ornamentation in favour of minimalism, displaying the time solely through two apertures—jumping hours and a wandering minutes display. It’s a design inspired by Cartier’s 1920s Art Deco experiments, and it perfectly complemented Golding’s polished and understated style for the evening.

The model is in yellow gold with dimensions of 37.6 x 24.8 mm, making it elegant and discreet on the wrist. The dial is especially eye-catching—white discs with green Arabic numerals and a matching minute track—a fresh modern twist on a classic design. Inside beats Cartier’s calibre 9755 MC, providing a solid 72-hour power reserve, although water resistance is not included (this is a watch meant for soirées, not swimming).

At a price of USD $60,000, the Tank à Guichets remains one of Cartier’s most elusive creations, cherished by true collectors for its rarity and architectural design. By wearing it, Golding conveyed that timepieces don’t always need to shout; sometimes, they whisper brilliance with a golden voice.

What is the Met Gala?

The Met Gala, officially called the Costume Institute Benefit, has been a key part of fashion culture since it first took place in 1948. Widely recognized as “fashion’s biggest night out,” it functions both as a glamorous fundraising event for the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s Costume Institute and as a platform where style, art, and celebrities come together. Each year, the gala attracts an exclusive list of designers, actors, musicians, athletes, and cultural icons, all gathering in New York City for an evening of high fashion and spectacle.

Famous for its stunning red carpet moments, the Met Gala has become a display of bold gowns, tailored suits, and innovative designs that often challenge traditional boundaries. Each event follows a unique theme connected to the Costume Institute’s annual exhibition, encouraging attendees and designers to interpret ideas ranging from punk rebellion to religious symbols to the spirit of camp. At its heart, the night is not just about fashion spectacle—it’s a celebration of creativity and a crucial fundraiser that helps the Costume Institute stay vibrant.

When Is The Met Gala 2025?

The Met Gala takes place every year on the first Monday of May, and in 2025, the celebrated event will be held on Monday, May 5th. This eagerly awaited evening not only inaugurates the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s annual Costume Institute display but also sets the tone for the fashion season, attracting celebrities, designers, and cultural icons to New York City for an evening of glamour, creativity, and memorable red carpet moments.

What is the Met Gala Theme for 2025?

The 2025 Met Gala will feature the theme “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style,” which explores the cultural and sartorial history of Black dandyism. Inspired by Monica L. Miller’s book Slaves to Fashion, the Costume Institute’s spring exhibition will demonstrate how clothing has long served as a means of self-expression, resistance, and artistry within the Black diaspora. Arranged into 12 defining traits—such as Heritage, Presence, Cool, and Cosmopolitanism—the theme underscores the elegance, individuality, and political power woven into fashion over the centuries.

This year’s dress code, “Tailored For You,” complements the theme by encouraging guests to explore the power of menswear through a personal perspective. Anticipate seeing custom suits, sharp silhouettes, bold accessories, and unexpected twists on classic tailoring as designers and celebrities reinterpret dandyism for the red carpet. With its blend of historical depth and creative freedom, the 2025 Met Gala promises to be one of the most thought-provoking and visually stunning fashion celebrations yet.

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