Braun Pays Big Money for Heidi's Other Assets

As one of the world’s most in-demand and recognizable supermodels, Heidi Klum is accustomed to having millions mentioned in the same breath as her name. For example, the German Victoria’s Secrets icon is said to make an estimated €6.6 million ($8 million) a year through advertising endorsements alone. But in an unusual step, the seven figure number released along with Klum’s moniker on Monday had nothing to do with what she earns -- but what she’s worth. To be precise, what her legs are estimated to be worth in terms of insurance.

Klum has recently signed a contract with German electronics manufacturer Braun to promote the company’s new hair-removal product and as the stars of the campaign, company execs consulted an expert just how much Heidi’s perfect pins would be worth.

Expensive legs come as a pair

John Souglides, a jewelry specialist from auction house Phillips De Pury & Company, was asked by Braun bosses to assess Klum’s legs ahead of a possible insurance policy which would cover them for the duration of their ad campaign. Souglides, more used to running his careful eye over inanimate objects, studied Heidi’s willowy limbs on their length, shape, rarity and commercial value. The result being a price tag of some €1.6 million, although it was unclear whether this value was for the pair of if they were worth €800,000 each.

"Having valued static objects for 15 years, it makes a refreshing change to be asked to value something living, and I certainly admired the exquisite lines of this piece," purred Souglides after assessing the 31-year-old model’s legs.

Valuation firm intrigued by offer

Souglides, who used the principles of jewelry valuation to come to the price tag, added: "Phillips De Pury has been in the valuation business since 1796 and, although we have valued some unusual and unique pieces in that time, this is the first time we have ever been asked to value a body part and we were intrigued by the challenge Braun set us."