By Former President Donald Trump has launched a new business venture selling high-end watches, including a $100,000 diamond-encrusted model, as part of his ongoing 2024 presidential campaign. The “Official Trump Watch Collection,” unveiled Thursday, features timepieces ranging from $499 to $100,000, with the most expensive boasting 122 diamonds on its bezel and available in three 18-karat gold styles.
This latest merchandising effort follows a series of branded products Trump has promoted during his third White House bid, including Bibles, sneakers, photo books, and cryptocurrency. The launch, occurring just 40 days before Election Day, may invite criticism about monetizing his campaign, particularly as Trump argues that Vice President Kamala Harris is out of touch with Americans’ economic struggles.
While the product websites state that sales proceeds do not directly benefit the former president or his campaign, they note that each item is subject to a “paid license agreement.” This arrangement mirrors Trump’s pre-political business model, which allowed him to profit from sales of various branded products.
Earlier this week, Trump announced $100 silver coins bearing his likeness. In March, he promoted a $59.99 “God Bless the USA Bible,” inspired by Lee Greenwood’s patriotic song. February saw the launch of Trump-branded sneakers, “Never Surrender High-Tops,” selling for $399, alongside “Victory47” cologne and perfume at $99 a bottle.
The former president has also ventured into NFTs (non-fungible tokens), reporting earnings between $100,000 and $1 million from digital trading cards featuring cartoon-like images of himself in various roles.
Many of these items, including the coins, sneakers, and Bibles, are affiliated with CIC Ventures LLC, a company he reported owning in his 2023 financial disclosure. The watches are covered by a similar licensing agreement for Trump’s name, image, and likeness.
According to the sales website, TheBestWatchesonEarth LLC is the entity behind the watch sales, using the Trump brand under a paid license agreement. The company states that the watches are intended as collectible items for individual enjoyment, not for investment purposes.
This merchandise push comes in the wake of a $489 million civil fraud judgment against Trump, which a New York appellate court recently indicated it might reduce or reverse.
As Trump continues to blend his business interests with his political campaign, questions persist about the ethics and legality of such practices. The Trump campaign has referred inquiries about the licensing deals to the Trump Organization, which has not immediately responded to requests for comment.
AP
