“…This past October, IWC Schaffhausen joined hands with Laureus Sport for Good and Bonhams for a standout charity auction that drew the gaze of watch connoisseurs and collectors across the globe. At the centre of the occasion was the Big Pilot’s Watch Shock Absorber XPL Toto Wolff x Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS Formula One™ Team, a strictly limited edition of only 100 pieces. What made this particular watch truly extraordinary was its provenance. It had been worn by Toto Wolff, the CEO and Team Principal of Mercedes F1, during the heat and intensity of the Singapore Grand Prix™.…”
เA triumph of engineering, the watch is equipped with the pioneering SPRIN-g PROTECT® shock absorption system that withstands forces of more than 30,000 g. Its spring is crafted from Bulk Metallic Glass, a material more elastic than traditional metals, allowing it to disperse impact energy with exceptional efficiency. Even in the most unforgiving moments of the racetrack, the movement remains impeccably protected. The auction lot included a white team polo shirt signed by Toto Wolff, a detail that added a personal touch to an already remarkable ensemble. The proceeds were directed to the Laureus Foundation Switzerland to support sports programmes for young people who face social inequality, discrimination or health challenges.
Laureus Sport for Good was founded in 2000 with a simple yet profound belief that sport has the power to reshape lives. Its mission is to create opportunities, build confidence and offer young people the chance to discover new possibilities.
The auction formed part of the annual Laureus Charity Night in Zurich, an evening that has become a highlight of the philanthropic calendar. Each year, IWC Schaffhausen contributes a unique timepiece to support the cause. Building on the momentum of last year’s success, IWC Schaffhausen and Bonhams, one of the world’s most established auction houses, opened the event to global collectors through an online format. The auction took place from 15 to 25 October and culminated in a live sale during the gala. The exceptional piece ultimately achieved an impressive 85,000 Swiss francs.
With its compelling backstory and the enduring vision of Laureus Sport for Good, the auction resonated far beyond the world of fine watchmaking. It served as a reminder that passion and generosity, when brought together with true purpose, can help shape a brighter future for the next generation.
