Michael Schumacher Watches Auction in Geneva
Exceptional watch auction featuring Michael Schumacher's collection scheduled for May 13 in Geneva
Michael Schumacher. Photo by Nicolas Bachmann, CC BY-SA 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons (detail)
Christie’s is set to host an extraordinary auction in Geneva on May 13, presenting over 160 rare watches, highlighted by a special collection from Formula 1 icon Michael Schumacher. Estimated to exceed $4.8 million, this auction will attract watch collectors, racing enthusiasts, and fans of Schumacher. This event follows an exhibition in New York from May 3-5, showcasing these luxury timepieces.
Rolex, Daytona model, Ref. 6241, Case No. 1'533'953, circa 1966. Estimate: CHF 250,000 – CHF 500,000. © Christie's
Schumacher's unique legacy through timepieces
The auction includes significant pieces given to Schumacher by Jean Todt, commemorating his victories with the Ferrari team. CNN reports that the Schumacher family has collected an impressive array of watches over the years. According to Rémi Guillemin, head of Christie's watch department, the decision to auction these watches stems from a belief that collectors will fully appreciate their value. "We are extremely pleased to offer these watches and to collaborate with the Schumacher family," Guillemin added.
Audemars Piguet, Royal Oak Chronograph model, Ref. 25960BC, No. E73509, sold in 2003. Estimate: CHF 150,000 – CHF 250,000. © Christie's
Highlights of the Auction
The collection features both vintage and modern watches from elite brands such as Audemars Piguet, F.P. Journe, and Rolex. Notably, the auction will feature the F.P. Journe Vagabondage I in platinum, which alone is expected to bring in $2.2 million, nearly half of the collection’s total estimated value. Additionally, a stainless steel Rolex Daytona "Paul Newman" is projected to sell for approximately $440,000, while Schumacher's Audemars Piguet Royal Oak could fetch around $280,000.
The Rolex Daytona is especially significant as it is named after the renowned Daytona International Speedway in Florida. "This is one of the most iconic watches ever made by the brand," says Guillemin.
Left: F.P. Journe, Invenit et Fecit, Unique Piece, Vagabondage 1 Model, circa 2004. Estimate CHF 1,000,000 – CHF 2,000,000. Right: Signed F.P. Journe, Ruthenium Chronomètre à Résonance Model, No. 92/99-01R, circa 2004. CHF 300,000 – CHF 500,000. © Christie's
Exclusive pieces for F1 enthusiasts
The auction also includes two particularly unique timepieces tailored for Formula 1 aficionados and followers of Michael Schumacher’s illustrious racing career. One of these is a custom-made white gold Royal Oak chronograph, gifted by Jean Todt. This watch features a dial encircled by six stars and adorned with Ferrari's prancing horse emblem and Schumacher's signature red racing helmet. Another standout is the platinum Vagabondage I, presented to Schumacher by Todt as a Christmas gift in 2004, with a red dial that commemorates Schumacher’s seventh championship win for himself and for Ferrari.
This auction not only offers an opportunity to own a piece of horological and sports history but also celebrates the enduring legacy of Michael Schumacher in the world of Formula 1 and luxury watches.
Preview Dates for the upcoming Geneva auction
In the lead-up to the Geneva auction on May 13, collectors worldwide have the opportunity to view these exceptional timepieces during a global preview tour. The scheduled stops for this tour are as follows:
Los Angeles: March 20-22 at Christie's
Hong Kong: April 4-7 at Christie's
Taiwan: April 20-21 at the Marriott Hotel
Dubai: April 27-30 at Christie's
New York: May 3-5 at Christie's
Geneva: May 10-12 at the Four Seasons Hotel des Bergues