Limited edition Leo Messi watch up for sale

Among the many models the Swiss company has produced during its rich history, the Royal Oak is perhaps the most iconic of the Audemars Piguet range.

Designed by Gerald Genta as the ultimate luxury sports watch, it features a unique case design which has remained almost unchanged for 50 years.

The watch has a case width of 41mm.

The relationship between Audemars Piguet and Lionel Messi began in 2005 when the footballer was presented with a Royal Oak following his first La Liga title at Barcelona in his debut season in Spain. From this point on he would become an avid collector of Royal Oaks and in 2010 became a brand ambassador.

Audemars Piguet marked its 40th anniversary of the Royal Oak with the Messi reference in 2012. It limited the release to just 1000 pieces in three variations – steel (500 pieces), pink gold (400 pieces) and platinum (100 pieces).

The rear view of the Leo Messi Royal Oak watch.

This example has a stainless steel case with tantalum bezel. Its reference is 26325TS.OO.D005CR.01, serial H72638.

The release of the watch in 2012 coincided with an impressive time for Messi on the pitch as he scored 91 goals for club and country during the calendar year and was awarded one of his seven Ballon d’Or awards.

This Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Leo Messi watch comes with its box and papers dated 10/12/2012. It is offered with an estimate of £18,000 to £22,000 in the Luxury Watch Sale at Fellows on Thursday January 19.

Image credit: photos courtesy of Fellows Auctioneers.