Netflix’s Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F, the long-awaited fourth installment of the iconic 1980s action-comedy series, manages to skillfully balance nostalgic elements with modern-day cinema. As a fan of the original, I was pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed it. However, what stood out the most was how watches were used to symbolize key character traits throughout the film.

The Rolex Daytona: A Symbol of Corruption
In the film, Axel Foley returns to Beverly Hills, joining forces with his estranged daughter, a criminal defense lawyer, to investigate a fellow officer’s death. Their suspicions point toward a group of corrupt Beverly Hills cops involved with a Mexican drug cartel. Their investigation leads them to Captain Grant of the Beverly Hills Police Department, portrayed by Kevin Bacon.

In a pivotal scene, Foley and his daughter confront Grant at an upscale private club. Grant’s wristwatch becomes a critical clue in unveiling his corruption. While discussing the hardships of police work, Foley calls attention to Grant’s watch, remarking, “Like that Rolex you got on.”

Grant proudly displays the watch, identifying it as a “Gold Daytona.” The choice of the watch is no coincidence. In the next scene, Foley remarks, “$1,000 shoes, replica Rolex watch. Come on now, I’ve seen crooked cops before, but this guy is next level.”

Grant’s Rolex, described as a gold Daytona, likely corresponds to the yellow gold Daytona reference 126508, priced at $41,200 retail, but with a secondary market value that can exceed $50,000 – an extravagant expense for a police officer, further cementing Foley’s suspicions about his corruption.

Axel Foley’s Watch: A Reflection of Integrity
While Grant’s Rolex signifies his dishonesty, Axel Foley’s choice of watch highlights his integrity and connection to his blue-collar roots. Foley wears The Duck from Shinola, a 42mm quartz dive watch priced at an affordable $650. The choice of a practical, durable watch reflects Foley’s down-to-earth nature, while the fact that it’s made in his hometown of Detroit further symbolizes his loyalty to his roots.

The contrast between Grant’s luxurious clone Rolex and Foley’s humble Shinola is a clever detail that adds depth to their characters. It’s a subtle but effective way the film uses watches to reveal their true personalities.