Hard-Charging Actors and Their Wrist Game: What the Stars of 'The Eight Hundred' Wear Off-Screen

The Return of 'The Eight Hundred' and Its Star-Studded Cast

After a year-long delay, the epic war film The Eight Hundred finally hit Chinese theaters on August 21, 2020, receiving widespread acclaim. Directed by Guan Hu, the movie recounts the heroic stand of 800 Chinese soldiers defending Sihang Warehouse during the Battle of Shanghai in 1937. The film features a stellar cast including Huang Zhizhong, Ou Hao, Wang Qianyuan, and Li Chen. While the characters don't wear wristwatches in the film due to its historical setting, off-screen, these actors showcase impressive timepieces that reflect their personal styles. Here's a closer look at the watches worn by these tough-guy actors in their daily lives.

Wang Qianyuan: Chopard and Glashütte Original

Wang Qianyuan, known for his intense performances, plays Yang Guai in the film, a stubborn and determined soldier. His real-life watch collection is equally compelling, featuring high-end pieces from Chopard and Glashütte Original.

Chopard L.U.C Timepieces

At the press conference for The Breakup, Wang wore a Chopard L.U.C watch with an 18k rose gold case and alligator leather strap, exuding luxury and sophistication. He also sported a Chopard L.U.C Lunar Big Date moon-phase watch at the Toronto International Film Festival and when winning the Best Supporting Actor award at the 31st China Golden Rooster Awards for Mr. Six. This moon-phase complication adds a poetic touch to his red-carpet attire.

Glashütte Original Seventies

Wang also owns a Glashütte Original Seventies watch with a distinctive square case in a grey dial and strap combination. This model, inspired by the 1970s, offers a vintage aesthetic that suits his understated yet powerful presence.

Ou Hao: Panerai, Rolex, and Piaget

Ou Hao, a former singer turned actor, has impressed audiences in films like The Legend of the Cat Demon and The Founding of an Army. In The Eight Hundred, he plays Duan Wu, a young soldier who matures through battle. His watch choices are diverse, reflecting his passion for horology.

Panerai Luna Rossa

At the cloud premiere of The Eight Hundred, Ou wore a Panerai Luna Rossa watch, a new model featuring a Regatta countdown function and a CarboTech carbon fiber case. This material makes the watch both robust and lightweight, ideal for a formal yet dynamic event.

Rolex Submariner 'Hulk'

In casual settings, Ou has been spotted wearing the iconic Rolex Submariner 116610LV, known as the 'Hulk' due to its green dial and bezel. Pairing it with a pastel pink hoodie, he brings a youthful energy to this classic diver.

Piaget Polo S

During the 2019 Shanghai International Film Festival, Ou wore a Piaget Polo S watch, recognizable by its unique cushion-shaped case and integrated bracelet. This model strikes a balance between sporty and elegant, making it a versatile choice for multiple events.

Li Chen: TAG Heuer and Girard-Perregaux

Li Chen, known for his roles in both film and television, is also a watch enthusiast. He has been seen wearing pieces from TAG Heuer and Girard-Perregaux.

TAG Heuer Monaco

Li owns a TAG Heuer Monaco, a square-cased icon with a blue dial that stands out on the wrist. This model, famously associated with Steve McQueen, is a favorite among collectors for its bold design and motorsport heritage.

Girard-Perregaux Laureato

Li also wears a Girard-Perregaux Laureato, a sporty-luxury watch with an octagonal bezel and integrated bracelet. Its distinctive design appeals to those who prefer unconventional timepieces.

Huang Zhizhong: Blancpain

Huang Zhizhong, who plays Lao Hulu in the film, is known for his refined and scholarly image. His watch choice reflects this persona.

Blancpain Villeret

Huang has been seen wearing a Blancpain Villeret timepiece with a rose gold case and white enamel dial. The clean, elegant design complements his tailored suits and adds a touch of classic sophistication.

Other Cast Members and Their Watches

Other actors in The Eight Hundred also have notable watch collections:

Wei Chen wore a Jaeger-LeCoultre Duomètre at promotional events.
Yu Haoming opted for a Girard-Perregaux Neo-Tourbillon with Three Bridges.
Du Chun sported a Panerai Submersible PAM00382, featuring a bronze case that develops a unique patina over time.

Conclusion

The Eight Hundred not only marked a triumphant return to cinemas but also showcased the diverse watch tastes of its cast. From Chopard's elegance to Panerai's ruggedness, these actors demonstrate that a tough-guy image can be complemented by a refined sense of style. Whether on the battlefield or the red carpet, their timepieces tell their own stories.