BIRMINGHAM, U.K. – A limited edition Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Leo Messi Edition wristwatch, reference 26325TS.OO.D005CR.01, sold for £31,200 at Fellows’ Luxury Watch Sale on January 19.

After finally winning the elusive FIFA World Cup in December 2022, Lionel Messi can be considered one of the greatest footballers to ever play the game. In 2005, Audermars Piguet began a relationship with Messi when the athlete was presented with a Royal Oak by his manager following his first Liga title. After this, he became an avid collector of Royal Oaks and in 2010 became brand ambassador for the watchmaker.

This relationship was further celebrated in 2012, when Audermars Piguet released the Royal Oak Leo Messi Limited Edition. The collection was limited to just 1,000 pieces across three different variants – stainless-steel, gold and platinum. The stainless-steel version was limited to 500 pieces.

The octagonal bezel is secured by eight hexagonal screws and is made from the tantalum. The case measures 41mm, with a thickness of 11mm. The lot was sold with its original box and papers.

The watch appeared as lot 2 in Fellows’ Luxury Watch Sale with an estimate of £18,000-£22,000 and went on to sell for £31,200. Bidding took place online and in the room with four bidders battling to claim the remarkable timepiece. Ultimately, an online bidder was successful and secured the watch for a £24,000 hammer price.

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The current rate of exchange is £1 = $1.23.

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