Messi receives rare $1.1 million watch during India visit

Football legend Lionel Messi has been gifted a rare Richard Mille watch worth around Rs 99.4 million during his visit to India, adding to the buzz surrounding his stay.

It has been reported that billionaire Mukesh Ambani’s younger son, Anant Ambani, presented the exclusive gift to Messi.

According to The Indian Express, Messi was first seen without a watch during his tour of the Vantara Wildlife Rescue and Conservation Center, established by Anant.

However, midway through the visit, he was spotted holding the Richard Mille RM 003-V2 GMT Turbio (Asia Edition), a collector’s edition watch with only 12 pieces in existence across the world.

Considered one of Richard Mille’s earliest and most iconic creations, the watch is valued at approximately $1.1 million.

During the visit, Anant Ambani was also seen wearing another rare timepiece—the Richard Mille RM 056 Sapphire Turbio, priced at around $5 million.

The RM 003-V2 watch features hours, minutes, dual time zones, function selector, power reserve, and torque indicator.

Its design includes a black carbon case, skeletonised dial, and titanium baseplate.

The 38mm tripartite case is made of carbon TPT (Thin Ply Technology), a material originally developed for aerospace engineering and Formula One racing.

During his visit to Vantara, Messi participated in traditional Hindu rituals, toured the conservation centre, and spent time with the caretakers and wildlife team.

The Indian Express reported that Messi and Anant Ambani discussed their personal commitment to wildlife conservation.

Messi was accompanied by Inter Miami teammates Luis Suarez and Rodrigo de Paul.

They were welcomed with music, aarti, and flower petals.

The football star also attended the Maha Aarti ceremony at the temple, which included Ambe Mata Puja, Ganesh Puja, Hanuman Puja, and Shiva Abhishek, and prayed for world peace and harmony.