The 2023 Ballon d'Or ceremony, one of the most prestigious events in football, took place at the Théâtre du Châtelet in Paris, France, on Monday, 30 October 2023. Personally, I found no surprises at the ceremony, as Lionel Messi, one of the two World Cup winners, clinched the prize, edging out the Norwegian prodigy, Erling Haaland. Messi's contribution was instrumental in leading the Argentine national football team to victory in the 2022 World Cup in Doha, Qatar. So, in total, he has won 8 Ballon d'Or!
The Ballon d'Or, French for "Golden Ball," is an annual football award presented by France Football. Established in 1956, it is regarded as one of the most esteemed individual accolades in the sport. The award recognizes the best-performing male football player of the previous calendar year, based on votes from a panel of international journalists.
In 2022, Karim Benzema had won the Ballon d'Or, creating a sensation across social media and breaking the internet with the news of his victory. It was a moment that drew attention from football fans worldwide.
The criteria for the award encompass the player's individual skills, achievements, and contributions to their team's success, among other factors. While initially the award was limited to European players competing in European clubs, it has been open to players from all around the world since 1995.
Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo are among the most distinguished winners, with Messi now holding the record for most wins at 8 and Ronaldo with 5.
As usual, we, as watch enthusiasts, are definitely interested in spotting watches during the event. So, in this blog post, I have curated the luxury watches at Ballon d'Or 2023 in France.
All pictures were taken from Getty Images.
Watches at Ballon d'Or 2023 - Lionel Messi Wears Louis Vuitton Tambour W1YG10
Watches at Ballon d'Or 2023 - Lionel Messi Wears Louis Vuitton Tambour W1YG10
Let's start with the winner. While receiving his trophy and delivering his speech on stage, Lionel Messi was spotted wearing the yellow gold Louis Vuitton Tambour W1YG10, introduced in 2023.
With its unique integrated metal bracelet and slimmer 8.3mm thin case, the Tambour Automatic 40mm in yellow gold reimagines Louis Vuitton's iconic watch design with a chic and sporty spirit. The watch also features an open caseback, allowing a glimpse into its inner workings. The contrasting finishes and refined details add sophistication to this versatile and unisex model. Powered by the new exclusive LFT023 calibre, the watch bears the signature 'Louis Vuitton Paris, Fab. En Suisse,'
Retail price: $52,000.
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Watches at Ballon d'Or 2023 - Ruben Dias Wears Patek Philippe 5711/1R in Rose Gold
Watches at Ballon d'Or 2023 - Ruben Dias Wears Patek Philippe 5711/1R in Rose Gold
Ruben Dias from Manchester City Football Club attended the event wearing a rose gold Patek Philippe Nautilus 5711/1R with a brown dial.
This jumbo Nautilus, made of solid rose gold, is among the world's most sought-after and visually stunning wristwatches. The appeal of the 5711, particularly in its radiant 18ct rose gold, is undeniable.
The brown embossed dial gradually darkens in hue towards its luminous markers, producing a captivating effect.
Market price (Oct 2023): ~$192,000.
Watches at Ballon d'Or 2023 - Lautaro Martinez Wears Patek Philippe Aquanaut Chronograph 5968G
Watches at Ballon d'Or 2023 - Lautaro Martinez Wears Patek Philippe Aquanaut Chronograph 5968G
At the event, Lautaro Martinez, accompanied by his wife Agustina Gandolfo, was spotted wearing the white gold Patek Philippe Aquanaut Chronograph 5968G.
This watch features a striking khaki-green dial complemented by a matching composite strap. Boasting a water resistance of up to 120m, the case is adorned with both polished and satin finishes. Notably, the 60-minute counter at 6 o'clock mirrors the rounded octagonal shape of the bezel.
Market price (Oct 2023): ~$132,000.
Watches at Ballon d'Or 2023 - Didier Drogba Wears Richard Mille RM67-01
Watches at Ballon d'Or 2023 - Didier Drogba Wears Richard Mille RM67-01
We all recall Emiliano Martinez's actions when the Argentina national football team clinched the 2022 World Cup trophy. His display of disrespect made him a trending topic worldwide.
At the Ballon d'Or 2023, Emi Martinez was honored with the Yashin Award for the best goalkeeper. However, as he stepped onto the stage, he was met with jeers from the audience. It took Didier Drogba's intervention to silence the hecklers booing Emi. It's a stark reminder: respect is essential wherever you are.
On a side note, Didier Drogba sported his titanium Richard Mille RM67-01 Automatic Winding Extra Flat watch, notable for its slender 7.75mm thickness.
Market price (Oct 2023): ~$200,000.
