Lionel Messi is not only one of the greatest footballers of all time, but he also has an impeccable taste for luxury, extending beyond the football pitch. One of the most remarkable aspects of his refined lifestyle is his incredible watch collection. Over the years, Messi has amassed a selection of high-end timepieces from prestigious brands such as Rolex, Patek Philippe, Audemars Piguet, and Jacob & Co. These watches are not only symbols of wealth but also reflect Messi’s appreciation for fine craftsmanship and horological excellence.
In this article, we take a closer look at some of the most expensive and exclusive watches in Messi’s collection, analyzing their design, history, and market value.
1. Patek Philippe Aquanaut Chronograph 5968A
- Estimated Value: $135,000
Patek Philippe is one of the most prestigious watchmakers in the world, known for producing elegant and highly coveted timepieces. One of the standout watches in Messi’s collection is the Patek Philippe Aquanaut Chronograph 5968A, a watch that perfectly blends sportiness with sophistication.
This model features a 42.2mm stainless steel case, an embossed black dial, and an eye-catching neon orange rubber strap. The orange elements add a modern and youthful touch, making it a perfect watch for casual and sporty occasions. Messi was seen wearing this watch ahead of a Leagues Cup match against Cruz Azul, proving his preference for luxury watches even in informal settings.
2. Patek Philippe Perpetual Calendar 5270P
- Estimated Value: $233,000
Another Patek Philippe masterpiece in Messi’s collection is the Perpetual Calendar 5270P, a timepiece that showcases the brand’s incredible ability to create highly complicated watches with timeless aesthetics.
This watch is crafted from platinum and features a lacquered green dial, which adds a refreshing contrast to the classic case design. The perpetual calendar function is one of the most revered complications in watchmaking, allowing the watch to automatically adjust for leap years and varying month lengths.
Messi wore this exquisite piece while receiving the Best FIFA Men’s Player award in 2022, proving that even in formal settings, he chooses the best of haute horology.
3. Patek Philippe Nautilus Perpetual Calendar Ref. 5740/1G
- Estimated Value: $160,000
The Patek Philippe Nautilus Perpetual Calendar 5740/1G is another rare gem in Messi’s collection. Nautilus models are highly sought-after, often fetching premium prices in the secondary market.
This particular model is crafted from 18K white gold, making it both a statement of luxury and elegance. It is the first grand complication in the Nautilus lineup and is recognized as the thinnest perpetual calendar ever produced by Patek Philippe. This ultra-thin movement showcases Patek Philippe’s engineering prowess, combining mechanical complexity with a sleek, sporty aesthetic.
4. Jacob & Co. Epic X Chrono Messi
- Estimated Value: Up to $600,000 (depending on the variant)
Jacob & Co. is known for its bold and extravagant designs, making it a perfect fit for an iconic sports figure like Messi. The Epic X Chrono Messi is a limited-edition timepiece that was created in collaboration with the football star himself.
This watch features Messi’s name and a stylized ‘M’ on the dial, along with a bold and modern skeletonized design. Some versions of this watch come adorned with baguette-cut diamonds, significantly increasing their value. Prices vary depending on the materials used, but the most expensive versions of this watch have been valued at around $600,000.
This model is a perfect example of Messi’s ability to blend luxury with personal branding, making it one of the most exclusive watches in his collection.
5. Rolex Oyster Perpetual Yacht-Master Ref. 126655
- Estimated Value: $27,300
Rolex is a staple in any luxury watch collection, and Messi owns several Rolex models. One of his most notable Rolex timepieces is the Oyster Perpetual Yacht-Master 126655, a watch that perfectly balances sportiness and elegance.
This model features a rose gold case, a black dial and bezel, and is paired with Rolex’s innovative Oysterflex bracelet, which combines the durability of a rubber strap with the stability of a metal bracelet. Messi wore this watch when signing his contract with Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) in 2021, making it a historical piece in his collection.
6. Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Chronograph Leo Messi
- Estimated Value: $125,000
In 2012, Messi collaborated with Audemars Piguet, one of the most respected Swiss watchmakers, to create a limited-edition Royal Oak Chronograph. This model was made available in steel, rose gold, and platinum, and quickly became a collector’s item.
The watch embodies the spirit of the Royal Oak collection, known for its distinctive octagonal bezel and integrated bracelet. Messi’s version of the watch adds a personalized touch, making it a prized possession for fans of both luxury watches and football.
7. Rolex Submariner Date 116659 SABR
- Estimated Value: $160,000
Another Rolex in Messi’s collection is the Submariner Date 116659 SABR, a unique and luxurious take on the classic dive watch.
This version of the Submariner is made from 18K white gold and is adorned with blue sapphires and diamonds, elevating the watch from a professional diving tool to an ultra-luxurious accessory. The combination of precious stones and Rolex’s timeless design makes this watch a true statement piece.
8. Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Perpetual Calendar Openworked “Cactus Jack”
- Estimated Value: Initially retailed at $201,000, current market value is much higher
One of Messi’s more recent acquisitions is the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Perpetual Calendar Openworked “Cactus Jack”, a watch designed in collaboration with rapper Travis Scott.
This timepiece is crafted from brown ceramic, a rare material in luxury watchmaking, and was limited to just 200 pieces worldwide. The intricate openworked dial allows the wearer to admire the movement inside, showcasing Audemars Piguet’s expertise in fine watchmaking. Messi showcased this watch on his Instagram, proving his appreciation for exclusive and rare designs.
A Collection Fit for a King
Lionel Messi’s watch collection is a reflection of his incredible success, taste, and appreciation for fine watchmaking. With pieces from Patek Philippe, Rolex, Audemars Piguet, and Jacob & Co., his collection consists of some of the most valuable and exclusive watches in the world.
Each watch in his collection tells a story—whether it’s a Patek Philippe worn at an award ceremony, a Rolex Submariner covered in sapphires, or a Jacob & Co. watch with his own branding. For Messi, these timepieces are not just accessories but symbols of moments, achievements, and personal milestones.
With an estimated total value running into millions of dollars, Messi’s watch collection cements his status as not just a footballing icon but also a connoisseur of luxury timepieces. Whether he’s on or off the pitch, his impeccable taste ensures that he always has the perfect watch on his wrist.