Rochelle Humes Warns Luxury Watches Are Too Risky in London as Theft Concerns Soar

Rochelle Humes, the singer from The Saturdays, has issued a stark warning for Londoners thinking of wearing luxury watches in the capital. Speaking on her Ladies Who Launch podcast with Sedge Beswick, Humes admitted that owning high-end timepieces in London has become “too scary.” She recalled pondering whether to borrow a Rolex for an important meeting, questioning the safety of wearing one outright.

“You can’t wear one in London now… It’s too scary to have anything nice,” Humes remarked. Her caution comes in the wake of high-profile thefts in Mayfair, where two Rolex thieves were caught on camera after being lured by undercover police posing as a wealthy couple.

Recent data obtained by the London Standard from the Metropolitan Police shows that from January 1, 2023, to November 30, 2025, a total of 3,428 watches valued over £3,000 were reported stolen. The numbers paint a worrying picture for anyone who owns luxury items in the city.

Humes’ warning reflects a growing anxiety among Londoners regarding street crime and opportunistic thefts. The singer’s experience highlights that even those accustomed to high-profile lifestyles are not immune to these risks. The podcast discussion emphasized the real fear and inconvenience of owning luxury goods in an urban environment that has seen increasing theft incidents.

This revelation joins a series of high-profile news stories where celebrities have been forced to reconsider how they display wealth publicly. From jewelry to watches, the risk of being targeted has become a genuine concern, with even simple daily errands potentially turning into moments of vulnerability.

For those in London who value their luxury items, Humes’ candid warning serves as a reminder to take precautions. Whether it’s avoiding flashy displays of wealth or considering insurance and security measures, the city’s crime statistics suggest vigilance is necessary.

As Humes explained, even first-time buyers of high-end watches face the dilemma of protecting their investment while attending professional or social engagements. The intersection of wealth, fashion, and urban safety has become increasingly fraught, prompting discussions across social platforms and in the media.

With police operations catching some perpetrators, there is some reassurance, but the prevalence of thefts remains high. Humes’ comments underline the tension between enjoying luxury and maintaining personal safety, a concern that resonates with many London residents and visitors alike.

Source: The Independent