A Timeless Tribute: Bulova Unveils the ‘We Are All Here’ Watch Honoring Tony Bennett’s Enduring Legacy
In the world of horology, a watch can be more than a simple instrument for telling time; it can be a vessel for a story, a symbol of a legacy, and a tangible piece of history. In a masterful blend of craftsmanship and narrative, iconic watchmaker Bulova has introduced a timepiece that does just that, paying a profound tribute to one of music’s most cherished and enduring voices: the late, great Tony Bennett. The new “We Are All Here” watch is the inaugural release in a limited-edition collection dedicated to Bennett, capturing not only his legendary career but also his deep, unwavering commitment to social justice. This is not just a watch; it is a conversation piece, a wearable testament to a life lived with artistry, integrity, and profound humanity.
The Story Behind “We Are All Here”
To understand the soul of this watch, one must travel back to a pivotal moment in American history: the 1965 civil rights march from Selma to Montgomery, Alabama. This was a time of immense turmoil and consequence, a turning point in the struggle for equality and voting rights for African Americans. At the personal request of his friend, activist and entertainer Harry Belafonte, Tony Bennett joined Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and a host of other artists and citizens for the final leg of the march.
A Fateful Call and a Defining Moment
Bennett, a proud Queens native who had witnessed the horrors of discrimination firsthand as a U.S. infantryman in World War II, did not hesitate. He flew to Alabama to lend his voice and his presence to the cause. On the final night of the march, a makeshift stage was erected on a flatbed truck, where performers gathered for a “Stars for Freedom” rally. It was in this charged, historic atmosphere, surrounded by fellow artists like Nina Simone, Sammy Davis Jr., and Harry Belafonte, that a quiet, powerful exchange occurred. Feeling a mix of awe and perhaps a touch of apprehension amidst such monumental events, Bennett turned to the legendary Ella Fitzgerald. It was she who offered him words of simple, profound solidarity that would stay with him for the rest of his life: “Tony,” she said, “we are all here.”
A Message Etched in Steel and Spirit
Those four words—”We Are All Here”—encapsulated the spirit of the movement: a collective of individuals from all walks of life, standing together for a common, righteous cause. They became a personal mantra for Bennett, a reminder of the power of unity and his lifelong dedication to justice. Bulova, in a stroke of thoughtful brilliance, has immortalized this moment. The name of the watch is drawn directly from this exchange, and the words themselves, alongside Bennett’s unmistakable signature, are delicately etched onto the caseback of every timepiece. It transforms the watch from a mere accessory into a personal connection to a defining moment in both Bennett’s life and the nation’s history. This commitment to equality was a cornerstone of Bennett’s character, earning him a rightful place in the International Civil Rights Walk of Fame at the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park in Atlanta.
The Art of the Watch: Design, Detail, and Dedication
Just as Tony Bennett’s music was a study in timeless style and meticulous delivery, the “We Are All Here” watch is a masterclass in thoughtful design. It avoids fleeting trends in favor of a classic, confident aesthetic that reflects the man it honors.
A Nod to a Roaring Comeback
The watch’s distinctive, angular silhouette and integrated bracelet are directly inspired by classic watch designs of the 1980s. This is no arbitrary choice. The ’80s marked a spectacular, roaring comeback for Bennett, a period when his son and manager, Danny Bennett, reintroduced his father’s timeless appeal to a new generation, solidifying his status as a permanent cultural icon. The watch’s design, therefore, celebrates not just his initial fame, but his remarkable endurance and the ability to connect with audiences across decades.
Signature Details: From the Dial to the Caseback
The attention to detail is where the tribute truly sings. The most charming and unique feature is the seconds hand, which features a custom counterbalance meticulously shaped to resemble Bennett’s signature folded pocket square—a sartorial flourish that was a constant and elegant part of his public persona for over 70 years. It’s a subtle, brilliant nod to his impeccable style.
The collection is available in three distinct and handsome styles, ensuring a version to suit different tastes, with price points ranging from $495 to $595. The variations include a sophisticated stainless steel case with a deep black dial, a classic silver-tone model with a matching dial for a sleek, monochromatic look, and a striking two-tone stainless steel and gold-tone version with a rich blue dial. Each dial is kept clean and legible, allowing the unique design elements to take center stage. Inside, a reliable quartz movement ensures precision, while the story etched on the back provides the soul.
Two New York Icons: A Shared Heritage of Craft and Timelessness
The collaboration between Bulova and Tony Bennett’s estate feels preordained. Both are quintessential New York institutions, born from the city’s dynamic energy and sharing a deep respect for artistry, innovation, and longevity. Bulova, founded in 1875 in downtown Manhattan, has a long history of “firsts,” much like Bennett continuously reinvented himself.
“Bulova and Tony share a deep lineage rooted in New York City, a reverence for craft, and an instinct for timelessness,” remarked Olivier Chastan, founder of Iconoclast, the brand management firm that partnered with Bulova to bring this collection to life. “This collaboration represents not just a tribute, but a continuation of Tony’s enduring spirit.”
This sentiment is echoed by Jeffrey Cohen, President of Citizen Watch America, Bulova’s parent company. “As a fellow New York icon, he shared Bulova’s commitment to artistry and longevity,” Cohen stated. “Each piece in this collection is designed to honor his legacy in a way that lives on, minute by minute.”
More Than a Timepiece: A Commitment to the Future
The “We Are All Here” watch extends its impact far beyond the wrist of its owner. It serves as a vehicle for continuing another of Tony Bennett’s great passions: arts education. A portion of the proceeds from every watch sold will be donated to the Frank Sinatra School of the Arts.
Supporting the Frank Sinatra School of the Arts
This esteemed public high school in Bennett’s home borough of Queens was co-founded in 2001 by Bennett and his wife, Susan Benedetto. Their vision was to create a world-class institution offering a rigorous academic curriculum alongside high-level arts instruction in music, fine art, dance, and drama, regardless of a student’s economic background. The school stands today as a thriving, vibrant testament to Bennett’s belief that art can change lives. By purchasing this watch, collectors and fans are not only acquiring a piece of history but are also directly contributing to the next generation of artists, performers, and creators—a legacy in action.
An Enduring Melody: The Collection Continues
The “We Are All Here” watch, now available at select retailers and on Bulova’s official website, is just the beautiful opening stanza of a larger symphony. Bulova and Iconoclast have announced that additional timepieces in the Tony Bennett collection will be released over the coming year. This series of releases will culminate in the celebration of what would have been the singer’s 100th birthday in August 2026.
In a world of fast fashion and disposable culture, the Tony Bennett “We Are All Here” watch is a powerful counterpoint. It is a beautifully crafted object that asks its wearer to pause and reflect on a legacy of incomparable music, unwavering integrity, and the unifying power of standing together for what is right. It is a reminder that, in the most important moments, we are, indeed, all here.
