In a surprising moment that merged tradition with modern technology, Pope Leo XIV was seen wearing an Apple Watch during his first official Mass, leaving watch enthusiasts and the online horology community buzzing. The sight of the sleek smartwatch visible under the Pope’s white vestments instantly became a topic of discussion, with many speculating about the choice of wristwear.
A Blend of Tradition and Modernity
As Pope Leo XIV made his debut appearance, the device on his wrist drew immediate attention, with some initially speculating that he might be wearing a classic Swiss timepiece, such as the Wenger Swiss Military 7223X. Rumors that this model had sold out quickly further fueled the intrigue. Others considered possibilities like a Casio or even a discreet Rolex. However, sharp-eyed watch enthusiast Nick Gould was the first to confirm that the Pope had chosen to wear an Apple Watch, a model he had also been seen sporting during his time as a Cardinal.
Adding to the intrigue, a photo surfaced on Reddit, posted by user Alexander Humbolt, showing the Pope wearing the same Apple Watch while blessing a parishioner at 7:35 p.m., long before his elevation to the papacy. Although the photo does not show whether the Pope had completed his fitness goals for the day, social media users couldn’t resist making jokes, suggesting that the countless stairs in Vatican City would certainly help him close his activity rings.
This unexpected blend of the spiritual and the technological has sparked widespread interest and debate among both casual observers and horology enthusiasts worldwide.