Sir Elton John and David Furnish hosted the 21st annual Elton John Aids Foundation (EJAF) Academy Awards Viewing Party, held on February 24, in West Hollywood Park in Los Angeles.
The iconic duo, along with sponsors Chopard, Neuro Drinks, Wells Fargo and American Airlines, raised nearly $6 million at the gala for the fight against HIV/AIDS. This year’s event also marked an incredible milestone for the foundation, as to date the EJAF has successfully raised over $300 million to support efforts for the prevention of HIV, treatment for vulnerable populations, advocacy and worldwide focused anti-stigma programs.
Sir Elton John and David Furbish attribute the amazing milestone to generous donors and incredible sponsors like Chopard whom share EJAF’s ultimate vision to find a cure that will end HIV/AIDS. A shared vision that fused a philanthropic relationship between Sir Elton John and Chopard Co-President and Artistic Director Caroline Scheufele over 13 years ago, and led to the collaborative production of a limited edition watch collection aptly named the Elton John Collection. The exclusive watch collection was designed with a percentage of profits from sales to benefit the Elton John AIDS Foundation.
In 2011 Sir Elton John and David Furnish hosted the 13th annual White Tie & Tiara Ball, which was held at the pair’s exquisite Old Windsor home. The event featured Elton John limited edition chronograph watch collection, which was designed to reflect Sir Elton John’s exceptional colorful signature of panache and his personal love of watches. The chronograph collection features include watch cases that are bold in diameter, with select models that displaying case bezels harmoniously interjected with diamonds, sapphires, rubies, emerald, and even colorful yellow, pink or black diamonds. The dials are accentuated by white or grey-rose mother-of-pearl. The chronograph models also features self-winding movements which are protected by sapphire crystals. The watches are adorned with black, brown or pink alligator leather straps.
In 2012 at the 20th annual EJAF Academy Awards Viewing Party a limited edition diamond Chopard Elton John watch was again re-auctioned, which goes to prove the old familiar statement, “the second time’s a charm” – it is indeed.
This impressive Elton John watch collection is not available for purchase, however, their luxurious style and philanthropic purpose continues to help make a difference in the lives of over 30 million people living with HIV/AIDS as the Elton John AIDS Foundation races to find a cure to eliminate HIV/AIDS forever.
Written by Chaz Nash