Anant Ambani’s ₹10.9 crore Gift — How Messi’s watch collection reached another level

What looked like a courtesy visit turned historic when Lionel Messi walked out of Vantara wearing a watch he didn’t arrive with. Anant Ambani’s gift—a ₹10.9-crore Richard Mille—instantly transformed a private exchange into a global luxury headline, blurring lines between sport, diplomacy and elite collecting.

In haute horology, value isn’t just price—it’s access. Gifting a watch limited to just 12 pieces worldwide signals rare trust and influence. Industry insiders say such exchanges are less about generosity and more about shared membership in an ultra-exclusive circle few ever enter.

The RM 003-V2 GMT Tourbillon “Asia Edition” isn’t flashy—it’s formidable. Carbon case, exposed mechanics, tourbillon precision and feather-light engineering reflect Richard Mille’s performance DNA, mirroring Messi’s own playing philosophy: efficiency, innovation and controlled brilliance.

Observers noted Messi arrived watch-free and left wearing the RM—confirmation louder than any press release. Watch forums and collectors dissected wrist shots within minutes, turning a quiet gift into one of the most verified luxury moments of the year.

Messi’s Rolex Cosmograph Daytona “Le Mans” is a collector’s grail. Created to mark 100 years of endurance racing, its Paul Newman-style dial and red “100” bezel elevate it beyond a sports watch into modern horological folklore.

Amid flamboyant pieces, Messi’s Audemars Piguet Royal Oak “Jumbo” in platinum reveals restraint. Horology experts often say true collectors balance spectacle with heritage—and this ultra-thin icon quietly signals taste that doesn’t need noise.

The Patek Philippe World Time Minute Repeater is connoisseur territory. Combining global timekeeping with one of watchmaking’s most difficult complications, it reflects an evolution in Messi’s collection—from star power to scholarly horology.

Messi’s platinum Patek Nautilus 5711 with sapphire markers isn’t sold—it’s bestowed. Reserved for top-tier clients, the discreet diamond at six o’clock marks its status. In collecting circles, this watch confirms Messi’s permanent place among watch royalty.

The pink “Barbie” Rolex Daytona stunned purists and thrilled collectors. Produced in just 10 pieces and never publicly listed, it proved Messi’s taste isn’t conservative—it’s confident. Even playful choices, when rare enough, become cultural statements.