The name Michael Schumacher resonates with speed, precision, and excellence, both on and off the racetrack. As Formula 1's legendary figure, Schumacher's legacy extends beyond his numerous championship titles to his personal collection of timepieces, each reflecting his taste and unparalleled passion for performance.
Michael Schumacher and his family has remained largely out of the public eye since his near fatal skiing accident in December 2013, but on May 13th in Geneva, Christie's will auction eight highly coveted timepieces from Michael's personal collection, coinciding with the Emilia-Romagna Grand Prix 17th-19th May, and marking the 30th anniversary of Schumacher's inaugural championship victory.
The upcoming auction is officially titled "Rare Watches, Including Those from the Personal Collection of Michael Schumacher.", you can follow the auction directly at Christie's Auction house. Allow us to provide you with an overview of the remarkable watches featured in this auction.
Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Chronograph
During the Japanese Grand Prix on October 12, 2003, Michael Schumacher achieved an extraordinary comeback, overtaking his Finnish rival Kimi Räikkönen and securing his sixth Championship title.
In celebration of this remarkable achievement, Ferrari's general manager and Schumacher's mentor, Jean Todt, commissioned a bespoke white gold chronograph from Audemars Piguet.
The dial was meticulously customised, featuring the team's logo on the seconds dial, Schumacher's iconic helmet on the 12 hour dial, and the number one surrounded by six stars, symbolising his six championship victories, on the 30 minute dial.
The back of the watch bears engravings commemorating each of Schumacher's six World Championship victories, encircled by a laurel wreath. Additionally, the inscription 'J. Todt pour M. Schumacher — Noel 2003' adorns the reverse."This timepiece, worn by Schumacher to mark his historic achievement as the most decorated Formula One world champion, stands out as one of the most captivating Royal Oaks ever seen in the market.
F.P Journe Vagabondage 1
In 2004, Schumacher kicked off the season by securing victories in an unprecedented 12 out of the first 13 races. Race number 14, the Belgian Grand Prix on August 29, saw him finish second to Kimi Räikkönen. However, the eight points earned were sufficient to seal his seventh Championship title To commemorate this momentous achievement, Todt presented Schumacher with an F.P. Journe Vagabondage 1.
This exclusive Vagabondage timepiece is made from platinum. Its dial showcases Ferrari's renowned prancing horse emblem, Schumacher's distinctive red helmet, and seven globe shaped symbols symbolising the driver's seven World Championship titles.
Rolex Daytona Paul Newman
Within the collection, of course, is a Rolex featuring Schumacher's 1971 iconic Rolex Daytona, which boasts a rare 'Paul Newman' dial. This distinctive dial is characterised by its stepped outer seconds register in red.
F.P Journe Collection Box of Five
Between 2001 and 2006, F.P. Journe introduced five of its landmark models; the Octa Jour/Nuit, Octa Calendrier, Octa Chronographe, Chronomètre à Résonance, and Tourbillon Souverain.
Each model from this Collection was released in a limited edition of just 99 pieces. Interestingly, all five watches numbered '92' found their way into Schumacher's possession, possibly as a nod to the year of his inaugural Grand Prix race win.
All five watches are featured within the auction
With a total estimated sales value 3.7CHF Million [Swiss francs], the hammer falls at the Christie's auction in Geneva on May 13th, Michael Schumacher's legacy lives on through each stunning timepiece up for grabs. From thrilling victories on the track to the cherished moments celebrated in the designs of these watches, Schumacher's influence goes beyond just racing.
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