The Fascinating Story Behind Richard Mille

Richard Mille is known for creating watches that break records and wallets. It is synonymous with luxury, status, and a favorite toy of celebrities and VVIPs, and this year the brand will celebrate only 25 years since its founding in 1999 (and its first watch was released in 2001).

Richard Mille ("Ree-shar" not Richard, he's French) made no compromises to realize his vision, which is why his watches are known for their innovative designs, exceptional craftsmanship, and use of the most modern materials. 

Take, for instance, the RM 052 Tourbillon Skull - a timepiece so expensive, it could make your bank account shed a tear. Made with brown sapphire crystal and a skull design, it's a reminder to cherish the present if you can find one. This custom-made watch is incredibly rare to find on the market and the last one known was sold for an astonishing $7.8 million at auction in 2020.

And then there's the RM 27-01 AN-CA, a watch so light, it practically floats on your wrist. Developed with Rafael Nadal, it weighs just 18.8 grams, making you wonder if it's even there. With only 50 pieces made, you'll need a tennis court-sized wallet to snag this exclusive piece. In 2022, one of the RM 27-01 AN-CA watches went up for auction and fetched an impressive asking price of over $1.4 million.

How did this happen and, most importantly, why do they cost so much? Let's figure it out together.

Here are the main reasons why Mille sets prices that are high even compared to the market for other premium watches:

1. Avant-Garde Design: Richard Mille watches feature futuristic and unconventional designs that push the boundaries of traditional watchmaking.

2. Lightweight and Durable Construction: The brand uses materials such as carbon fiber and titanium to reduce the weight of its watches while maintaining strength and durability, taking inspiration from motorsports and aerospace technology. There is an opinion that Richard Mille watches will survive even after a Formula 1 car crashes on the track.

3. Exquisite Craftsmanship: Richard Mille partners with leading Swiss manufacturers to create complex and precise movements. Before the release of each model, the brand produces several prototypes, each of which can take years to create. At the same time, even the most complicated watches of the brand are quite easy to use for the client.

4. Limited Editions: Most Richard Mille watches are produced in limited quantities, which increases their exclusivity and desirability among collectors.

5. Outstanding Partnerships: The brand has collaborated with famous athletes such as Rafael Nadal and Bubba Watson, which further enhances the status of their watches. By the way, the famous Czech athlete Ester Ledecka also became an ambassador and partner of Richard Mille.

6. Collectible Value: Richard Mille watches are highly sought after by watch lovers and collectors for their technical prowess and unique aesthetics, and their prices on the secondary market continue to rise year after year.

7. Cutting-edge technology: The brand uses cutting-edge technology and materials in its watches to ensure exceptional performance and innovation. 

In addition, Richard Mille often produces one-of-a-kind watches commissioned by A-list celebrities, using the most creative designs, materials, and precious stones. 

Richard Mille continues to redefine luxury watchmaking, pushing the boundaries while emptying pockets. So, if you're in the market for a timepiece that's equal parts jaw-dropping and bank account-depleting, Richard Mille has got you covered. Just remember to bring your sense of humor... and a hefty bank balance. Nevertheless, the brand is definitely worth it. Check out our exclusive offers of Richard Mille watches here.