A collection of eight watches belonging to seven-time F1 world champion Michael Schumacher went up for auction at Christie's in Geneva on Tuesday and sold for a combined total of 4 million Swiss Francs - approximately $4.41 million.
The sale, originally scheduled for Monday, was delayed due to a cyber-attack on Christie's. However, when it finally took place, it drew significant interest.
A highlight of the auction was a unique F.P. Journe Vagabondage timepiece gifted to Schumacher by Ferrari F1 team boss Jean Todt that went under the hammer for 1.5 million Swiss Frances – or approximately $1.66 million.
The 18-carat white gold watch, engraved with a dedication from Todt to Schumacher, features a red watch face and images of a Ferrari logo, Schumacher’s racing helmet and a “7” — to honor his seven World Championship victories.
Another highly sought-after item was a personalized Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Chronograph, also gifted by Todt, emblazoned with the Ferrari prancing horse and Schumacher’s helmet which sold for 415,800 Swiss Francs, beating its 150,000 to 250,000 francs estimate.
“Collectors were so happy to discover these timepieces filled with history,” commented Christie's Head of Watches in Europe, Remi Guillemin.
These lots, offered on behalf of the 55-year-old seven-time Formula 1 champion's family, represent just a portion of his larger collection.
While Michael Schumacher has not been seen publicly since his skiing accident in 2013, his legacy continues to resonate with fans around the world, as evidenced by the strong showing at this auction.
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