AUDEMARS PIGUET | Messi Model to Be Offered at Sotheby's Auction

Giving Children the Chance to Chase Their Dreams

Messi Model "Royal Oak Chronograph" to Be Offered at Sotheby's

At Sotheby's spring auction on Saturday, May 11th, in Geneva, Switzerland, Audemars Piguet will present the highly coveted "Royal Oak,ChronographLeo Messi," engraved with the number "10" of ambassador and football superstar Lionel Messi. All proceeds will be donated to the "Leo Messi Foundation," which supports children in fulfilling their dreams.

Text by YANAKA Tomomi

Platinum Model, Limited to 100 Pieces with "10" Engraved, to Be Offered

Lionel Messi, the ace of FC Barcelona and a living legend who captivates football fans worldwide. Audemars Piguet, which welcomed him as an ambassador in 2010, supports the "Leo Messi Foundation," where he is active, with the wish to give underprivileged children the chance to pursue their dreams. The brand will exhibit the luxury sports watch named after him, the "Royal Oak Chronograph Leo Messi."

This auction presents a rare opportunity for collectors and football fans alike. The "Royal Oak Chronograph Leo Messi" to be auctioned is from a limited series that debuted last year. Three models were released: a stainless steel case limited to 500 pieces, a pink gold case limited to 400 pieces, and a platinum case limited to 100 pieces, all featuring a tantalum bezel.

The piece appearing at the auction is the "Royal Oak Chronograph Leo Messi" with a 41mm platinum case, embodying understated luxury and a modern aesthetic. The case back is engraved with "10/100," referencing his jersey number, and the deep blue dial with white gold hands creates a fresh and elegant impression.

In addition to the watch, the successful bidder at this auction will receive a signed Messi t-shirt and other gifts, as well as the opportunity to watch an FC Barcelona match and meet Messi himself.

Messi himself, who has been involved in activities such as football clinics for children with weak bodies and renovations of elementary schools through the "Leo Messi Foundation," commented, "With the funds raised, children struggling with hardship can regain hope and smile. Thanks to these funds, we can rebuild a public children's hospital in my hometown of Rosario."

This auction, a realization of the shared vision of Messi, the fantasista supporting children through his presence, and Audemars Piguet, is one to watch for future endeavors.

Royal Oak Chronograph Leo Messi |
Royal Oak Chronograph Leo Messi
Case│Platinum, 41mm diameter
Movement│Self-winding, Calibre 2385
Jewels│37
Power Reserve│40 hours
Water Resistance│50m water resistant

Sotheby's Auction
http://www.sothebys.com/en/auctions/ecatalogue/2013/important-watches-ge1301/lot.110.lotnum.html

Audemars Piguet Japan
03-6830-0000
http://www.audemarspiguet-ginza.jp