The Ruling on selling Gold Watches to Men and likewise Rings and Pens
Question:
Is it permissible to sell watches that have gold on them to men? Likewise, what is the ruling on selling rings and pens that have gold on them (to men)? Whoever sells any of this, what is the ruling on the wealth that he gained?
Answer:
It is permissible to sell watches and rings made of gold and silver to men and women both. However, a man may not wear a gold watch or a gold ring or anything coated with gold. Likewise, the silver watch is only for women. In reference to a silver ring, it is permissible for men and women. In reference to gold and silver pens, it is not permissible for men and women both to use them, because they are not jewellery. It is only similar to containers made of gold and silver, and containers made of gold and silver are forbidden for everyone. This is due to the statement of the Prophet Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam:
Do not drink from a container made of gold or silver and do not eat from dishes made of them (gold and silver). For verily, they are for them (meaning the disbelievers) in this life and they are for you all (the Muslims) in the Hereafter. [1]
The authenticity of this Hadith is agreed upon. There is also the Prophet's statement: He who drinks from a container made of gold and silver, he only gargles the Fire of Hell in his stomach.[2] This was recorded by Imam Muslim in his Sahih. Spoons, teacups, coffee cups and so forth have the same ruling as the containers. We ask Allah to grant all of the Muslims success in doing that which contains His Pleasure, and to keep them safe from those things that bring about His anger. And Allah is the Giver of success. [1] Al-Bukhari no.5426 [2] Muslim no.2065
Shaykh `Abdul-`Azeez Bin Baz
Fatawa Islamiyah Darussalam Vol: 4 no. 411
