India, May 26 -- Timepieces, tuxedos, and a whole lot of wrist flex at the 78th Festival de Cannes. These watches tik-tocked their way into the spotlight this year.

If Cannes is one of the most discerning moments for global red-carpet ensembles, the watches are the crown jewels. While the Festival de Cannes is essentially a celebration of films and the film industry, it is also known for the iconic Cannes red carpet and the world's biggest stars making their fashionable appearance. This year, amidst last-minute rule changes of trains and nudity; a quiet horological power play unfolded. Watches stood out as a subtle nod to craftsmanship, legacy, and personal style.

Jaeger-LeCoultre's old-world elegance, the disruptive cool of Audemars P...