Few international fixtures carry the history and emotion of England versus Argentina. From the 'Hand of God' to modern World Cup clashes, every meeting between these nations captures the world's attention.
As Harry Kane prepares to lead England against Lionel Messi for the first time, another fascinating rivalry takes place away from the pitch: their impressive luxury watch collections. Harry Kane's collection features bold, iconic pieces like the Rolex Cosmograph Daytona Rainbow and Patek Philippe Aquanaut Chronograph. In contrast, Lionel Messi boasts one of the world's most exclusive collections, including ultra-rare Patek Philippe Nautilus models, a 'Tiffany' Nautilus, and off-catalogue Rolex Daytonas.
Here's how their watch collections compare, offering a glimpse into the preferences of these football legends and the pinnacle of haute horology.
Harry Kane's luxury watch collection might not be the largest in professional football, but every piece is instantly recognisable for its bold statement. His most famous watch is undoubtedly the Rolex Cosmograph Daytona Rainbow in Everose gold (Reference 116595RBOW).
This extraordinary timepiece features 36 baguette-cut sapphires meticulously arranged to form a vibrant rainbow bezel, complemented by diamond-set lugs. It has deservedly become one of Rolex's most sought-after modern creations. Kane famously wore his Rolex Daytona Rainbow when arriving for England's opening World Cup fixture against Iran in Qatar 2022, cementing its status as one of football's most photographed watches.
Unlike many collectors who rotate dozens of watches, Harry Kane tends to wear pieces that make a powerful visual statement. His Rainbow Daytona perfectly reflects that approach - it is flashy, luxurious, and undeniably iconic without being overly complicated.
Beyond his Rolex collection, Harry Kane has also been seen wearing the Patek Philippe Aquanaut Chronograph, one of the most desirable luxury sports watches currently in production. Introduced as a sportier counterpart to the iconic Nautilus, the Aquanaut has become a firm favourite among discerning collectors thanks to its contemporary styling, outstanding craftsmanship, and limited availability.
Powered by Patek Philippe's self-winding calibre CH 28-520 C flyback chronograph movement, the Aquanaut combines technical excellence with effortless everyday practicality. Its embossed tropical composite strap, rounded octagonal case, and beautifully finished dial give it a distinctive look that feels both modern and unmistakably Patek Philippe.
Together with his Rainbow Daytona, the Patek Philippe Aquanaut demonstrates Harry Kane's preference for contemporary icons that balance everyday wearability with exceptional collectability. His collection is built around quality and impact, rather than sheer quantity.
If Harry Kane owns a handful of exceptional watches, Lionel Messi has assembled one of the finest celebrity watch collections anywhere in the world. A lifelong enthusiast of haute horology, the Argentine captain has spent years building a carefully curated collection that reflects both his success on the pitch and his deep appreciation for exceptional craftsmanship.
Lionel Messi's collection spans renowned brands like Rolex, Patek Philippe, and Audemars Piguet, with an estimated total value approaching $8 million. Rather than simply acquiring the latest luxury releases, Messi has focused on some of the rarest and most desirable references ever produced, including limited editions, discontinued models, and highly exclusive pieces that are seldom seen outside elite collecting circles. Many of these watches are only made available to Rolex and Patek Philippe's most valued clients, making them incredibly difficult to obtain regardless of budget.
From gem-set Rolex Daytonas to ultra-rare Patek Philippe Nautilus models, Messi's collection showcases a blend of investment-grade timepieces and genuine collector's pieces. It is a collection built not just on prestige, but on rarity, exclusivity, and a profound appreciation for some of the world's finest watchmaking.
Arguably the jewel of Lionel Messi's collection is the Patek Philippe Nautilus 5711/1A Tiffany & Co., a watch that has achieved legendary status among collectors. Created to celebrate the 170th anniversary of Tiffany & Co.'s partnership with Patek Philippe, it combines the iconic stainless steel Nautilus with the instantly recognisable Tiffany Blue dial.
Limited to just 170 examples worldwide, the Tiffany-blue Nautilus has become one of the most coveted modern watches ever produced. Examples regularly command around $2 million on the secondary market, thanks to its extraordinary rarity and immense demand from collectors globally.
For Messi, owning the Tiffany Nautilus is a testament to his status as one of the world's most discerning watch collectors, possessing a timepiece that very few people will ever have the opportunity to own.
Lionel Messi's Rolex collection is equally remarkable, showcasing some of the brand's most exclusive and difficult-to-obtain references. Alongside his platinum Rolex Day-Date 40, famously worn during Argentina's World Cup celebrations, he owns a number of off-catalogue Daytona references, including colourful gem-set editions that very few collectors are ever offered.
His collection also features highly sought-after sports models and precious metal pieces, reflecting a preference for watches that combine rarity with long-term collectability. These aren't watches that simply require wealth; they require relationships built over many years with the world's most exclusive retailers, making them almost impossible for the average collector to purchase.
It's this level of exclusivity that sets Messi's collection apart, with many of his Rolex models representing the pinnacle of modern collecting and demonstrating access to pieces that rarely appear even on the secondary market. If you are looking to source such rare pieces, BQ Watches specialises in connecting discerning buyers with exceptional pre-owned luxury watches.
Comparing the watch collections of Harry Kane and Lionel Messi reveals two distinct, yet equally impressive, approaches to luxury timepieces.
Harry Kane's collection is built around:
• Rolex Cosmograph Daytona Rainbow
• Patek Philippe Aquanaut Chronograph
• Modern sports watches
• Bold, instantly recognisable designs that make a statement
Lionel Messi's collection focuses on:
• Rare Patek Philippe Nautilus models, including the 'Tiffany' edition
• Platinum Rolex Day-Dates
• Off-catalogue Rolex Daytonas
• Ultra-exclusive collector pieces that require unique access
• Investment-grade haute horology with significant secondary market value
Where Kane chooses watches that command immediate attention, Messi quietly wears some of the hardest-to-acquire timepieces in the world. Both collections perfectly reflect their owners' personalities and achievements.
On the football pitch, England versus Argentina has produced some of the sport's most unforgettable moments, and Harry Kane versus Lionel Messi is another chapter in that historic rivalry. When it comes to their luxury watch collections, however, there is no clear winner; it simply highlights personal taste and access to horological masterpieces.
Harry Kane's collection celebrates bold modern luxury and iconic sports watches, while Lionel Messi has curated one of the most exclusive collections in professional sport, focusing on rarity and investment potential. Both reflect their owners perfectly - one built around powerful statement pieces, the other around extraordinary rarity and long-term collectability.
Whether your preference is a vibrant Rolex Daytona Rainbow or an ultra-exclusive Patek Philippe Nautilus 'Tiffany', one thing is certain: when these two captains walk onto the pitch, some of the world's finest watches won't be far behind. For those inspired by such exquisite timepieces, BQ Watches offers expert sourcing and a curated selection of pre-owned luxury watches.
Whether you're looking to upgrade your collection, release capital from an existing piece, or simply understand its current market value, BQ Watches offers a seamless and secure service in London and across the UK. Our seasoned specialists provide expert, transparent valuations for your luxury pre-owned watch, competitive part-exchange options, and strong purchase offers with immediate bank transfer. Get in touch with our team today for expert assistance with your luxury watch.
