Luxury Leo Messi watch auctioned for charity

Geneva, May 13 (IANS/EFE) An exclusive Audemars Piguet watch designed with the assistance of soccer star Leo Messi was auctioned for 65,500 euros ($85,000), all of which will go to the foundation created by the soccer star to aid underprivileged children in Argentina, Mexico and Spain.

This particular wristwatch is No. 10 - in honour of the number on the soccer forward's jersey - of the Royal Oak Chronograph Leo Messi model, a limited edition of only 100 pieces.

The luxury watch came up a little short of what Sotheby's had predicted - the auction house expected it to sell for somewhat more than 70,000 euros ($91,000).

However, a representative of the firm considered expectations fulfilled "because we really couldn't have an estimated amount in mind since the watch was being sold for charitable purposes".

In less than five minutes with no more than five people attempting to take home the exclusive 41-millimeter timepiece, the platinum No.10 Royal Oak Chronograph Leo Messi went to the highest bidder.

The funds taken in at the auction will go to the restoration of a public children's hospital in the Argentine city of Rosario, the soccer player's hometown.

The new owner of the luxury watch will be given the chance to meet Messi personally in Barcelona after a soccer match, as was explained at the auction.

Leo Messi at age 25 has already become a legend of the sport, being the first player in history to win soccer's Ballon d'Or four years in a row.

--IANS/EFE

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