Eight luxury and customized watches owned by Formula One icon Michael Schumacher are set to be auctioned off, with a combined estimated value exceeding $4.8 million.
These exclusive timepieces will be showcased in New York from May 3 to May 5, coinciding with the Miami Grand Prix weekend, before the auction takes place in Geneva, Switzerland, on May 13, as announced by Christie's auction house.
The Schumacher family has chosen to part with some of the watches from his extensive collection. Remi Guillemin, Christie's head of watches, stated that the family believed these particular watches would be best appreciated by collectors. "We're thrilled to collaborate with the family and showcase these remarkable watches," Guillemin added.
Among the notable watches is the Rolex stainless steel Paul Newman Daytona, named after the Daytona International Speedway in Florida. This watch, described by Guillemin as one of Rolex's most iconic creations, is expected to fetch up to $440,000.
Another standout piece is the platinum F.P. Journe Vagabondage 1, valued at nearly half of the collection's estimated total. It is anticipated to sell for up to $2.2 million. Additionally, Schumacher's Audemars Piguet Royal Oak watch is projected to fetch up to $280,000.
The white gold Royal Oak chronograph was a personalized gift to Schumacher from his early mentor and former Ferrari CEO, Jean Todt, for Christmas 2003. It commemorates Schumacher's six Championship victories at the time, featuring six stars and depictions of Ferrari's emblem and Schumacher's racing helmet.
The platinum Vagabondage 1, also a gift from Todt but for the subsequent Christmas, celebrates Schumacher's seventh Championship with Ferrari through its distinctive red dial.
Proceeds from a prototype of this watch, sold in 2003, supported the Paris Brain Institute (ICM) Foundation, of which both Schumacher and Todt are founding members.
Guillemin emphasized the watches' significance for Formula One enthusiasts and watchmaking enthusiasts alike, highlighting their historical value and importance in watchmaking.
Schumacher suffered a severe head injury in a skiing accident in 2013 and has remained out of the public eye since. However, his wife, Corinna, mentioned in a 2021 Netflix documentary their continuous efforts towards his recovery and comfort.
