Donald Trump has launched a new business venture during his third campaign for president, unveiling the “Official Trump Watch Collection,” which includes diamond-encrusted watches priced at $499 to $100,000. Despite the products not directly benefiting Trump or his campaign, they are subject to a paid license agreement, allowing Trump to profit from sales. This move has led to criticism of Trump for monetizing his campaign, especially as he accuses Vice President Kamala Harris of being out of touch with Americans’ economic struggles.
In addition to the watches, Trump has previously sold products like silver coins, Bibles, sneakers, and NFTs, all branded with his name or likeness. These items, including the watches, were affiliated with CIC Ventures LLC, a company owned by Trump that has similar licensing agreements with other companies selling Trump-branded products. The watches, sold by TheBestWatchesonEarth LLC, are intended for individual enjoyment and collection, not as investment opportunities, according to a disclaimer on the sales website.
This business venture comes at a time when Trump is facing a $489 million civil fraud judgment, which a New York appellate court is considering reducing or reversing. The watches, along with other Trump-branded products, continue his long tradition of merging his political and business interests. While the Trump campaign referred questions about the licensing deal to the Trump Organization, neither entity has provided immediate comment on the matter, leaving questions about the legitimacy and ethics of Trump’s latest business venture unanswered.
The launch of the Trump Watch Collection adds to the list of products that Trump has promoted during his 2024 White House campaign, including silver coins, sneakers, and branded cologne and perfume. These products, along with the watches, are part of Trump’s efforts to monetize his campaign and appeal to his supporters through consumer goods that bear his name and image. Despite the criticism surrounding the commercialization of his campaign, Trump continues to leverage his brand to generate revenue and maintain his presence in the public eye.
As Election Day approaches, Trump’s focus on selling branded products raises questions about his priorities and intentions for his political future. By launching the Trump Watch Collection and other items, Trump is reinforcing his personal brand while also facing scrutiny for profiting from his campaign activities. The licensing agreements and disclaimer surrounding the sales of these products add another layer of complexity to the relationship between Trump’s political aspirations and his business interests, creating a controversial narrative that continues to unfold in the lead-up to the 2024 Election.
