Sugar Ray Leonard watch raises $145,000 for boxing pension fund
A unique Hublot Sugar Ray Leonard chronograph wristwatch sold in a special charity auction
Bonhams' latest charity auction saw a unique Sugar Ray Leonard Hublot watch take the title of top lot in Las Vegas on September 29.
Sugar Ray Leonard faced fierce competition from Mike Tyson
The sale was held in conjunction with both the World Boxing Council (WBC) and luxury Swiss watchmakers Hublot to raise funds for the WBC's newly launched charitable initiative, which includes a retired boxer's pension and emergency fund in over 40 countries worldwide.
12 unique chronograph wristwatches were designed especially by Hublot to mimic the championship belts awarded to the fighters during their careers. Made from 18k king gold, black ceramic and titanium, each sported a Porosus Hornback green alligator strap with a black rubber spare. Additional boxing-themed features included a special three-minute counter and the World Boxing Council symbol on the back of the case. Each piece was engraved with the name of a specific boxer.
As an added incentive for the winning bidders, each boxer was present at the sale and personally awarded their watch in astaged boxing ring.
Jean-Claude Biver, chairman of Hublot commented: "Hublot feels proud and privileged to have joined the fight of the legends of this great sport. These 12 unique pieces are reflecting the 'fusion' between the fierce competitors of the historic sport of boxing and the accomplishments of 450 years of Swiss watch making art."
The watch designed for Sugar Ray Leonard sold at the top of the sale for $145,000, while Mike Tyson's followed closely,attracting $120,000. Also among the highest sellers was Lennox Lewis' watch, which brought $105,000 and George Foreman's, which made $100,000.
Paul Fraser Collectibles is currently offering a fantastic signed vintage photograph of "The Boilermaker" James J Jeffries. For watch collectors we have a Longines Men's Olympic Series wristwatch - a classic design from the respected Swiss brand.
