Jacob & Co. Single Barrel Godfather II watch
A few years ago I was invited by Jacob & Co. to Sicily to experience the unveiling of its Godfather watch—in honor of the movie. I was so excited to visit the chapel and the sweeping Sicilian countryside seen in the film, but an unexpected surgery prevented that adventure. Still, I have always held a fondness for the epic and iconic Godfather saga, and for the watches the brand has created in its honor. Now, the newest timepiece has been unveiled, and it may be epic in its own way—thanks to two melodies played via music-box-like scrolls and pins that bring to life two unforgettable themes from the film.
With The Godfather II, Jacob & Co. deepens its cinematic horology, integrating both “The Godfather’s Waltz” and “The Godfather Love Theme” into a single wrist-bound performance. Composed by Nino Rota for director Francis Ford Coppola, the pieces are instantly recognizable, carrying the emotional weight of the Corleone family story. Here, they are activated by a pusher at 8 o’clock and selected via a discreet mechanism at 10 o’clock—an impressive feat that allows the wearer to choose between melodies. Each plays for about 15 to 20 seconds and can be repeated multiple times on a single wind.
The Jacob & Co. Single Barrel Godfather II watch watch plays two melodies on a music-box system.
The technical achievement behind this is significant. Powered by the new JCAM62 caliber, the watch houses a music box system built on a comb and cylinder mechanism, where tiny pins pluck steel teeth to produce sound. A minute lateral shift determines which melody is played—an innovation that keeps the movement relatively compact while delivering rich acoustics. Enhancements to sound projection ensure the tunes are not merely symbolic, but genuinely audible and immersive.
Visually, The Godfather II marks a departure from earlier, more imposing iterations. Its 42 x 44 mm rose gold case is curved and ergonomically designed, with a subtle Art Deco influence that lends refinement. The black lacquer dial sets a noir tone, anchored by a detailed portrait of Marlon Brando as Don Corleone. Signature puppet strings arc across the dial in relief, while the case itself is filled with narrative details—from bullet-hole engravings to a crown shaped with the spiraling grooves of a gun barrel.
The Jacob & Co. Single Barrel Godfather II watch is crafted in 18-karat gold and retails for $440,000.
A flying tourbillon adds high watchmaking credibility, while dual power reserve indicators track both timekeeping and musical energy. On a full wind, the watch offers a 72-hour reserve for time and up to 10 melody activations—an improvement over earlier models.
Importantly, The Godfather II is issued in a limited edition of just 74 pieces, a thoughtful nod to the film’s 1974 release. At $440,000, it is as much a collector’s objet d’art as it is a watch—one that bridges cinema, music, and mechanical ingenuity in a way few others can.
