Lewis Hamilton’s IWC Pilot’s Watch Performance to Be Auctioned for Charity by Bonhams
From October 9 to 19, 2024, Bonhams will host an online auction featuring a truly unique piece of motorsport and horological history: Lewis Hamilton’s IWC Pilot’s Watch Performance Chronograph 41, which the seven-time Formula One World Champion wore on the podium at the 2024 Silverstone Grand Prix. Hamilton’s record-breaking ninth victory at Silverstone is memorialized in this exclusive watch, alongside a framed pair of his signed racing gloves, donated by the Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula One Team.
The IWC Pilot’s Watch Performance Chronograph
The watch to be auctioned is an IWC Pilot’s Watch Performance Chronograph 41 Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS Formula One Team (Reference IW388306). This exact timepiece accompanied Hamilton on the podium of his historic Silverstone win, marking his first victory in two seasons. It features a Ceratanium case and case back ring, a high-performance material developed by IWC that combines the lightness and structural integrity of titanium with the hardness and scratch resistance of ceramic. The chronograph is powered by the IWC-manufactured 69385 calibre, visible through the tinted sapphire glass case back. Additionally, it boasts a black ceramic bezel with a tachymeter scale, allowing the wearer to calculate average speeds over 1000 meters.
This exceptional piece not only represents Hamilton’s personal achievements but also IWC Schaffhausen’s commitment to combining robust engineering with refined aesthetics.
Auction Details and Charity Impact
The online auction, which began on October 7, will close on October 19, 2024, during the Laureus Charity Night in Zurich. The sale is a collaboration between IWC Schaffhausen, Bonhams, and Laureus Sport for Good, with all proceeds going to support Laureus’ sports programs for disadvantaged children and young people. The event is part of Laureus’ mission to use sports to promote social inclusion, positive self-determination, and personal development.
Laureus Foundation Switzerland, established in 2006 by IWC Schaffhausen and Mercedes-Benz, supports over 23,000 children annually through seven charitable sports projects. These initiatives aim to improve physical and mental well-being, providing children with the opportunity to overcome adversity through the values and disciplines instilled by sport.
Statements from IWC Schaffhausen and Bonhams
Franziska Gsell, Chief Marketing Officer at IWC Schaffhausen, commented on the special auction: “Each year, we look forward to participating in the Laureus Charity Night. This time around it will be particularly special, as we are auctioning the watch Lewis Hamilton wore during one of the most emotional and memorable moments of the season. By making the auction accessible globally online, we are ensuring that even more interested bidders will have the chance to participate.”
Penny Andrews, Bonhams’ Head of Watches in London, echoed this excitement: “We are delighted to take part in the charity night, offering the IWC Schaffhausen timepiece worn by renowned Formula One driver Lewis Hamilton on the podium of his significant win at this year’s British Grand Prix. The Laureus Charity Night is a notable event, where significant funds are raised for such a valuable cause, helping children find positivity through sports.”
A Unique Opportunity for Collectors
This auction offers collectors the chance to acquire a rare piece of motorsport memorabilia paired with horological excellence, while supporting a worthy cause. Hamilton’s signed gloves and the IWC Pilot’s Watch serve as significant reminders of a celebrated career, allowing bidders to own a piece of Formula One history.
For more details and to participate in the auction, visit Bonhams.com.
