We know that Formula 1 and watchmaking go hand in hand. And if the triple world champion Max Verstappen now sports a golden TAG Heuer Carrera on his wrist, his illustrious predecessors are not to be outdone. Among them, the collection of Michael Schumacher has enough to put stars in the eyes of lovers of fine watches. And precisely, Christie’s is about to auction two unique models to celebrate the 30th anniversary of Schumi’s first championship title.
Audemars Piguet Royal Oak: a gift from Jean Todt
The Royal Oak is already one of the watches most coveted by collectors (as well as investors and speculators). In this context, this Audemars-Piguet chronograph becomes more desirable than ever, with Christie’s referring to it as “a once in a lifetime opportunity” to acquire such an iconic watch with such a history.
Because this version of the Royal Oak is a unique piece, a gift given by Jean Todt (then boss of Ferrari) to Michael Schumacher on the occasion of his sixth world champion title, in 2003. The white gold case is still as recognizable, but here it is accompanied by an exclusive dial, especially at the level of the three sub-dials. The prancing horse of Ferrari thus appears at 6 o’clock, when the German driver’s red helmet is represented in the 12-hour totalizer. As for the 30-minute counter, it is decorated with 6 stars, in reference to these 6 trophies then collected by Schumacher.
Another nod to these championship titles appears on the back of the watch, on the case specially engraved for the occasion.
F.P. Journe Vagabondage 1: The watch with 7 titles
The following year, in 2004, Michael Schumacher won his seventh and final F1 World Championship title. And after the Royal Oak designed by Gérald Genta, another model greatly appreciated by connoisseurs joins the driver’s watch collection: the Vagabondage by F.P. Journe.
The origins of this watch are indeed very interesting. In 1997, François-Paul Journe created a unique model called Carpe Diem, featuring a rare but poetic complication (and dear to Audemars Piguet): the wandering hour. This watch could have (should have?) remained unique, but the designer developed a new exclusive version in 2003, as part of a charity sale. It was finally in 2006 that the model joined the permanent collection of F.P. Journe, under its new name Vagabondage, an obvious reference to the complication that drives it.
Before this, Michael Schumacher also had his own exclusive model. Its bright red dial immediately catches the eye, of course reminiscent of the color of the Scuderia Ferrari. Around the edge, 7 “V”s symbolize the 7 world championship titles, alongside the iconic prancing horse and the famous helmet of the Red Baron. On the back, the 18-carat gold movement also hosts a personal message for Schumi, making this watch even more unique.
After being displayed all around the world (Los Angeles, Hong Kong, Dubai…), these two exceptional watches will be auctioned by Christie’s at the Four Seasons Hotel des Bergues in Geneva on May 13, 2024.