Watches in Planes, Trains & Automobiles: A Horological Deep Dive

Planes, Trains & Automobiles (1987), directed by John Hughes, is widely regarded as one of the quintessential Thanksgiving films. Beyond its comedy and holiday heart, this movie is also a hidden gem for watch enthusiasts. Two very different watches play symbolic—and practical—roles on screen: one elegant, one humble. Let’s explore the iconic timepieces, their meaning, and how they define the characters.

The Two Iconic Watches

Steve Martin as Neal Page – Piaget Polo (18k Gold, Reference ~8273)

Neal Page, played by Steve Martin, wears a Piaget Polo watch early in the film. According to watch-identification sources, the model is most likely the Piaget Polo 8273, a quartz-powered, 18-karat gold watch with a 27 mm

John Candy as Del Griffith – Casio Digital (W-34 or A159-series)

Del Griffith, played by John Candy, wears a simple digital Casio. Sources differ slightly on the exact model:

• Watch-ID identifies it as a Casio W-34.
• Hodinkee identifies it as a Casio A159W, a small, entry-level digital watch with a silver case and bracelet.

Regardless of the exact version, this Casio is emblematic of Del’s character.

Why These Watches Matter in the Story

The contrast between the two watches underscores the difference between Neal and Del:

• Neal’s Piaget Polo communicates status, wealth, and a career-focused mindset. It’s sleek, expensive, and symbolic of his professional life. 
• Del’s Casio is humble, utilitarian, and clearly not a luxury piece. It matches his everyman sales-type and down-to-earth personality. 

Key Scenes Featuring the Watches

Opening Close-Up: The film begins with a tight shot of Neal’s Piaget Polo. It emphasizes his anxiety as he checks the time, showing how much he cares about punctuality. 

Motel Barter Scene: Neal offers “$17 and a hell of a nice watch” to pay for a motel room, putting his Piaget on the table. Del then says, “I’ve got two dollars … and a Casio,” holding up his digital watch. This is both comedic and symbolic. 

Thematic and Horological Symbolism

• Time as Tension: Neal’s repeated glances at his Piaget illustrate his constant worry and urgency.
• Value Beyond Money: Trading the Piaget shows personal sacrifice; Del’s Casio shows humble, practical value.
• Contrast of Lifestyles: The watches visually reinforce how different these two men are.
• Character Growth & Connection: Over the journey, the watches highlight the evolving bond and the idea that value is more than money.

Legacy & Watch Culture Impact

• The Piaget Polo 8273 is rare on-screen and well documented in watch communities.
• The Casio digital watch, humble as it is, has become iconic for its role in a climactic scene.

5 Common Questions About the Watches in Planes, Trains & Automobiles

1. What exact model of Piaget does Steve Martin wear?

Steve Martin’s character wears a Piaget Polo ref. 8273, 18k gold, quartz-powered.

2. Which Casio does John Candy wear?

Sources vary: Watch-ID says Casio W-34, while Hodinkee says Casio A159W.

3. Why does Neal trade his Piaget watch?

To pay for a motel room in a moment of desperation, highlighting both financial and personal stakes. 

4. What is the significance of Del’s “two dollars and a Casio”?

It symbolizes value beyond money — practicality, humility, and character. 

5. Why is this movie important for watch enthusiasts?

It’s a rare mainstream film with clearly identifiable watches that carry symbolic weight in storytelling. The Piaget and Casio show class contrast, character traits, and narrative depth.