Celebrity Set Style: What Watch and Jacket Brands to Watch From On-Set Sightings in Empire City

Hook: Missed the drop again? Here’s how to spot — and copy — the exact rugged-luxe watches and jackets stars wear on set

If your feed lights up with set photos of Gerard Butler racing through Empire City's smoke-filled corridors or Lucy Hale stepping out for a tense Legacy scene, you want two things: the look now, and assurance it’s authentic and wearable. The problem: viral on-set styles move fast, details are scarce, and sifting real pieces from cheap replicas is a time sink. This guide gives you the fastest path from sighting to purchase — with trusted brands, budget swaps, authentication checks and exact outfit formulas for the rugged-luxe looks dominating late 2025–2026.

Why set sightings matter more than ever in 2026

Film and TV wardrobe has become a runway for immediate commerce. When Empire City and Legacy started filming in late 2025 and early 2026, set photos (reported by outlets like Deadline and Variety) generated instant trends: the “firefighter-chic” jacket and the “urban survivor” leather look. In 2026, two forces amplify on-set influence:

• Real-time social commerce: Platforms convert a 30-second on-set clip into a purchase path in under an hour.
• Recommerce authenticity: Buyers prefer authenticated pre-owned and limited drops — a major shift from impulse fast-fashion purchases.

“Empire City charts a hostage crisis… Butler stars as Rhett, a firefighter who, alongside his squad, must fight to rescue captives” — Deadline, Jan 2026

What stylistic clues to look for in set photos

Before buying, read the visual language. Set photos often emphasize texture, hardware, and silhouette. Scan for these quick indicators:

• Hardware and stitching: Brass snaps, heavy zips and reinforced elbow patches usually signal heritage brands (Barbour, Filson, Belstaff).
• Weight and drape: Bulky, structured shoulders suggest waxed cotton or heavy-grade leather; soft drape hints at sueded or worn-in finishes.
• Dial and strap combos: A chunky dive watch with a thick leather strap reads as ‘field-ready’ — think Panerai-style crown guards or a Tudor Black Bay aesthetic.

On-set roundup: Empire City & Legacy — what the press confirms

Both Empire City (filming in Melbourne) and Legacy (boarded for international sales in early 2026) have widened the lens on masculine and feminine interpretations of rugged-luxe. From the articles announcing production, we know:

• Empire City positions Gerard Butler as Rhett — a firefighter-leader archetype — creating demand for heavy outerwear and durable utility pieces.
• Legacy, starring Lucy Hale, is a David Slade-directed horror film that blends contemporary tailoring with vintage-infused pieces — cue mixed textures and versatile layering.

These productions prime two complementary styles: the “rescue-ready” utility wardrobe and the “survivor-chic” tailored-but-weathered look.

Gerard Butler’s Empire City formula: Rugged-luxe for the frontline

When translating a firefighter-turned-hero into wearable fashion, focus on three pillars: outerwear, boots, and a statement watch. Here’s how to execute Butler’s on-set energy off-camera.

Outerwear — the jacket is everything

Look for structured, functional pieces that age beautifully.

• Top-tier choices: Belstaff Trialmaster, Filson Tin Cloth Cruiser, Barbour Beadnell — these use waxed cotton or full-grain leather and develop a patina with wear.
• Mid-range picks: RRL waxed jackets, AllSaints leather sherpa-lined jackets, and Aspesi or A.P.C. field coats for cleaner silhouettes at lower price points.
• Budget-friendly where to shop: Look to sustainable deadstock at Vestiaire Collective or curated outlets for older production pieces that mimic set authenticity.

Boots — rugged sole, refined presence

Boots ground the look. Aim for heavy leather, Goodyear welt, and a weather-ready tread.

• Investment: Red Wing Iron Ranger, White’s Boots, or Viberg Service Boot.
• Affordable alternatives: Thursday Boots Captain, Chippewa Service Boots.

Watches — the on-set watch language for Rhett

Firefighter characters are usually paired with watches that feel purposeful: legible dials, robust cases and straps that survive moisture and heat.

• Signature looks: Luminous dive and field watches — think Panerai-inspired cushion cases, Tudor Black Bay style bezels, or a modern IWC Pilot for a military‑leaning aesthetic.
• Accessible choices: Seiko Prospex or Longines HydroConquest for dive cues; Baltic MR01 or Hamilton Khaki Field for that cosseted field-watch vibe.
• Strap trick: Swap a steel bracelet for a 2–3mm vegetable-tanned leather strap or a waxed leather NATO to age the watch into the rugged-luxe zone.

Lucy Hale’s Legacy aesthetic: Survival with a feminine edge

Lucy Hale’s on-set looks blend tailored simplicity with tactile details — think supple leather jackets, knit layers, and compact watches that read neat but tough. Here’s how to recreate her on-screen shorthand.

Outerwear & layering

The secret is contrast: feminine lines with masculine materials.

• Leather & suede: AllSaints, Isabel Marant Étoile, or Acne Studios for slouchy cropped jackets with refined finishes.
• Utility jackets: A.P.C., Acne, or Rag & Bone chore jackets in olive or camel give utility vocabulary without bulk.
• Fine knits: Lightweight cashmere or merino turtlenecks for layering under leather — opt for neutral tones (charcoal, camel, oat).

Shoes & accessories

Combat-boot silhouettes or feminine ankle boots bridge the gap between delicate and durable.

• Boots: Stuart Weitzman, Saint Laurent Jodhpur or a Chelsea from Rag & Bone.
• Bags: Crossbody satchels with worn leather or structured mini-totes — the brand mix is important: luxe leather with utility hardware.

Watches — compact, purposeful, chic

Choose watches with smaller cases but durable personalities.

• Luxury picks: Cartier Pasha (re-releases in 2024–25 revived interest), Hermès Cape Cod, or smaller Longines Heritage models.
• Accessible: Seiko Presage or Hamilton Jazzmaster Lady for clean dials with resilient movements.

How to replicate these looks without breaking the bank (actionable buying list)

Replicating rugged-luxe is about materials and provenance, not price. Use this checklist when shopping:

1. Identify the fabric: Waxed cotton, heavy canvas, full-grain leather or sueded finishes. Prioritize these even if the brand is different.
2. Check the hardware: Solid brass snaps, YKK heavy zips, visible welt stitching. These details dictate durability and knit the luxe look together.
3. Opt for natural patina: New gear that looks aged is a tell — if you want true rugged-luxe, buy items that will evolve with wear.
4. Strap swaps: Transform a dress watch to rugged-luxe with a thick leather strap or a military-style NATO.
5. Buy with authentication in mind: Prefer marketplaces that provide authentication (Chrono24, WatchBox, The RealReal, Vestiaire Collective).

Authentication & resale: avoid the pitfalls

When a set sighting goes viral, counterfeit and replica markets light up. Protect your purchase with these proven checks:

• For jackets: Examine stitching (tight uniform stitches), interior tags, and hardware stamps. Heritage brands will often have embossed logos on buttons or zippers.
• For watches: Always ask for serial numbers and service history. If buying online, request high-res photos of the movement and caseback. Use independent authentication services when in doubt.
• For pre-owned pieces: Buy from platforms that provide an authenticity guarantee and returns. Keep receipts and any provenance paperwork — they matter for resale value.

Advanced strategies for collectors and serious shoppers (2026 playbook)

If you’re building a rugged-luxe capsule with long-term value in mind, apply these advanced tactics that reflect market behavior in 2025–26.

• Buy classics, not trends: Prioritize timeless cuts — waxed field jackets, pilot watches, Goodyear-welted boots — which retain or appreciate in resale.
• Leverage recommerce: The recommerce market matured in 2025. Set alerts on multiple platforms so you catch production pieces or earlier-season drops similar to what stars wore on set.
• Micro-invest in microbrands: Several 2024–25 microbrands now offer exceptional quality (Bronze-cased dive watches, small-run waxed jackets) at a fraction of legacy house prices.
• Document provenance: Keep photos of items on you, service records for watches, and any receipts. Provenance is the modern certificate of value.

Styling recipes: exact outfit formulas inspired by Empire City & Legacy

Copy these sets for street-ready looks that translate from set to city streets.

Rhett (Gerard Butler) — Rescue-Ready

• Waxed cotton field jacket (olive or deep brown)
• Bronze-hardware henley sweater or heavy cotton thermal
• Dark selvedge denim or black tactical cargo trousers
• Heavy leather boots (Goodyear welt)
• Chunky dive or field watch on a thick leather strap

Legacy Lead (Lucy Hale) — Survivor-Chic

• Cropped leather jacket or suede moto
• Fine ribbed turtleneck (neutral)
• High-waist straight-leg trousers or structured midi skirt
• Compact ankle boots or Jodhpur-style boots
• Small-case watch with masculine cues (black dial, leather strap)

Where to buy now — retailers and marketplaces to watch in 2026

These platforms are essential for sourcing authentic pieces or high-quality alternatives that replicate on-set looks.

• New & boutique: Directly from brand sites (Belstaff, Filson, Barbour, AllSaints)
• Recommerce (authenticated): Vestiaire Collective, The RealReal, Chrono24 (for watches), WatchBox
• Microbrands & makers: Search microbrand aggregators and specialty boutiques for limited runs that mimic heritage production
• Local tailors & cobblers: Customize proportions for a set-accurate fit and age leather/finish work for authenticity

Care & patina: how to age your pieces intentionally

The hallmark of rugged-luxe is a lived-in look that reads as intentional, not neglected. Follow these care tips:

• Waxed cotton: Re-wax annually with brand-recommended wax to maintain water resistance and deepen color.
• Leather: Condition sparingly; leave some dryness to develop character. Use a neutral beeswax for soles and trims.
• Watches: Service mechanical watches every 4–6 years and keep leather straps dry. Rotate straps to change vibe instantly.

Ethics & sustainability — the 2026 consumer’s filter

In 2026, shoppers increasingly weigh sustainability and repairability. Rugged-luxe favors materials designed to last — a welcome counter-trend to disposability. When choosing pieces, ask about repair policies, spare-part availability and supply-chain transparency.

Quick reference: Replica looks and their legitimate alternatives

If you’re chasing a star’s on-set look but want to avoid counterfeits or exorbitant prices, use these pairings:

• Belstaff Trialmaster look: Barbour Beaufort or Filson Tin Cloth Cruiser (similar silhouette, better price options exist)
• Panerai-style cushion dive: Baltic MR01 or Seiko Prospex (maintain the bold cushion case and luminous dial)
• Heritage leather boot: Viberg or Red Wing for investment; Thursday Boots or Chippewa for value alternatives

Final takeaways — what to do when you see a set photo you love

1. Pause and analyze: note fabric, hardware, silhouette, and watch case shape.
2. Set alerts on recommerce platforms and Google Lens the image to find exact items or close matches.
3. Prioritize authentication: request serials, check tags, and use verified sellers.
4. Decide: buy an authentic piece, invest in a high-quality alternative, or replicate the mood with straps and layers.

Why this matters for your wardrobe in 2026

Film-driven trends like those emerging from Empire City and Legacy give you a blueprint for building a durable, stylish capsule that ages well and holds value. The current market rewards authenticity — pieces with proper provenance or heritage construction maintain resale value and tell a story that fast-fashion cannot.

Closing — your action plan

See a look on set you love? Don’t impulse-buy. Use the checklist above, shop authenticated marketplaces, or try the smart alternatives listed here. Whether you want Gerard Butler’s rescue-ready jacket or Lucy Hale’s survivor-chic tailoring, the right piece will do two things: perform and patina. That’s the essence of rugged-luxe in 2026.

Call to action: Want a curated shopping edit of the exact jackets, boots and watches inspired by Empire City and Legacy — authenticated and ready to buy? Subscribe to our Set-Style Alerts or follow our Instagram for live drops and verified listings as filming stills roll in. Don’t miss the next on-set moment that defines a season.

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