It is the 30th anniversary of Michael Schumacher's first Formula 1 drivers' championship win in 1994. So Christie's presents a selection of watches from the private collection of one of F1's most illustrious champions.
The auction of rare watches is scheduled for 13 May 2024 at the Four Seasons Hotel des Bergues in Geneva. It will feature a special section with these remarkable watches. Each of them reflects pivotal moments in the career of the famous German driver.
Rémi Guillemin, head of Christie's watch division for Europe and the US, said. “The auction will be very important. Christie's is sincerely grateful to the Schumacher family for the trust they have placed in us. Also for its desire to share these masterpieces of watchmaking with other passionate collectors worldwide. We are proud to present these iconic yet unique timepieces belonging to one of the most famous legends of Formula 1. An exceptional moment for both watch enthusiasts and F1 fans alike. We look forward to meeting avid collectors during our international exhibitions and auction on 13 May in Geneva.”.
In a career spanning three decades, Michael Schumacher is undoubtedly one of Formula 1's most successful drivers. He leaves an indelible legacy on the sport.
Of particular importance among the watches on offer is the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak chronograph in white gold. It was commissioned as a gift to Michael Schumacher from Jean Todt, his mentor at Ferrari.
In commemoration of Schumacher's then six F1 victories, the custom dial still features the legendary Ferrari flying horse emblem on the secondary seconds dial. In addition, the 30-minute dial shows the number “1” surrounded by six stars representing Schumacher's World Championship victories from 1994 to 2003. It is worth noting that Schumacher's red racing helmet is displayed on the 12-hour dial.
This deeply personal piece of F1 memorabilia also includes an engraved inscription on the back of the case commemorating Schumacher's six F1 World Championship wins.
Another personal piece of Formula 1 memorabilia is a unique F.P. Journe Vagabondage 1 Model watch, dating back to around 2004. It also features a bespoke dial and carries an engraved personal gift inscription on the movement in 18-carat gold.
Around the red dial are symbols representing Michael Schumacher's seven F1 World Championship victories up to 2004, along with Schumacher's racing helmet and the Ferrari emblem.
But this model was named “Vagabondage” in deference to its display showing the time-selectable hours around a central visible balance zone.
Source: timeandwatches.com
