Richard Mille: 7 Extraordinary Watches from the Sotheby’s Archive

Richard Mille is a name that has become synonymous with avant-garde design, cutting-edge technology, and groundbreaking horology. Since its founding in 2001, the brand has revolutionized the watch industry with its use of high-tech materials, bold aesthetics, and uncompromising performance. Inspired by Formula 1 engineering and aerospace innovation, Richard Mille timepieces are known for their resilience, extreme precision, and futuristic appeal.
Over the years, the brand has formed close collaborations with elite athletes, racing legends, and cultural icons, solidifying its status as the pinnacle of modern luxury watchmaking.

Sotheby’s has had the privilege of auctioning some of the most remarkable Richard Mille watches, each with its own unique story, technical brilliance, and collector appeal. Below, we explore seven standout Richard Mille models that Sotheby’s has brought to market, showcasing the brand’s relentless pursuit of innovation and excellence.

Richard Mille RM27-03 CA-FQ Rafael Nadal Circa 2017, 1,008,000 USD

This Richard Mille RM27-03 Tourbillon Rafael Nadal sold for 1,008,000 USD in December 2022. This timepiece exemplifies Richard Mille’s dedication to blending performance with avant-garde materials. Limited to just 50 pieces, this striking timepiece was crafted from red and yellow Quartz TPT—a material celebrated for its durability and lightness. Its bold color scheme pays tribute to Rafael Nadal's Spanish heritage, while the yellow crown, designed to resemble a tennis ball, further reflects the influence of the tennis champion.

Beyond its visual appeal, the watch boasts remarkable engineering, capable of withstanding 10,000g’s of shock. The semi-skeletonized dial reveals a titanium bridge stylized as a bull's head, a nod to Nadal’s emblem. Accompanied by its original Richard Mille presentation box, warranty, and book, this timepiece remains a true collector’s dream.

Richard Mille watch — Richard Mille Pablo Mac Donough Reference RM053

Richard Mille Pablo Mac Donough Reference RM053 Circa 2014, 7,620,000 HKD

This Richard Mille Pablo Mac Donough Reference RM053 sold for 7,620,000 HKD in October 2023. Designed for Argentine polo player Pablo Mac Donough, the RM053 was built to endure the intense physical demands of the sport. This timepiece features an armored titanium case with a distinctive design that protects the movement from high-impact shocks. The unique dial openings, angled at 30 degrees, allow for optimal readability during a match, highlighting Richard Mille's commitment to functionality.

A skeletonized tourbillon ensures precision by counteracting gravitational effects on the balance wheel, making it an exceptional technical feat. Complete with its original box and warranty, this watch is a perfect fusion of sport and sophistication.

Richard Mille Proto1 Reference RM012 AG Pt Circa 2008, 609,600 GBP

This Richard Mille RM012 AG Pt Proto1 sold for 609,600 GBP in February 2023. As the first of three prototypes, this platinum skeletonized tourbillon was revolutionary in both design and execution. The movement and case were constructed as a single entity, a remarkable engineering feat that pushed the boundaries of traditional watchmaking.

Accompanied by a letter from Richard Mille detailing the challenges of its production, this prototype is a rare find, offering a glimpse into the brand’s relentless pursuit of perfection. With its unique provenance and extraordinary craftsmanship, the RM012 Proto1 remains a coveted piece for serious collectors.

Richard Mille Le Mans Classic Reference RM029 Circa 2022, 2,413,000 HKD

This Richard Mille RM029 Le Mans Classic Reference RM029 sold for 2,413,000 HKD in October 2023. This model was a tribute to the prestigious vintage sports car event co-founded by Richard Mille. Limited to just 150 pieces, this model features a carbon fiber and quartz fiber case in the event’s signature green and white color scheme. The skeletonized movement, crafted from grade 5 titanium, showcases the brand’s material innovation.

This timepiece also featured a 24-hour indication with a blue arrow marking the traditional 4 PM start time of the Le Mans race. Its blend of sportiness and style embodied the Richard Mille brand’s ethos of pushing the boundaries of both design and performance.

Richard Mille Reference RM002 Circa 2010, 2,540,000 HKD

This Richard Mille Reference RM002 sold for 2,540,000 HKD in April 2023. This watch represents a milestone in Richard Mille’s history as the second watch ever produced by the brand. It was the first tourbillon watch with a titanium baseplate, revolutionizing the industry with its lightweight yet robust construction.

A function selector, inspired by a car’s gearbox, adds to its motorsport DNA. This well-preserved example, complete with its original baby blue strap, showcases the brand’s groundbreaking innovations that continue to influence luxury watchmaking today.

Richard Mille Reference RM11-03 Circa 2019, 2,032,000 HKD

This Richard Mille Reference RM11-03 sold for 2,032,000 HKD in October 2023. This Richard Mille watch was a powerhouse within the Richard Mille collection, known for its versatility and complex functionality. Crafted from carbon fiber and titanium, this watch features the RMAC3 caliber with a flyback chronograph, annual calendar, and a 55-hour power reserve. Its camouflage-patterned case underscores the brand’s commitment to bold aesthetics and technical prowess.

Accompanied by its original warranty, instruction manual, and presentation box, the RM11-03 is a prime example of Richard Mille’s fusion of intricate mechanics and striking design.

Richard Mille RM055 AN Ti Bubba Watson Red Drive Circa 2013, 254,000 USD

This Richard Mille Reference RM055 Bubba Watson Red Drive sold for 254,000 USD in March 2023. This was a limited edition created exclusively for the Americas in collaboration with the PGA Tour-winning golfer. Unlike its predecessors, this model features a sleek black titanium case with bold red accents. The skeletonized movement, treated with PVD and Titalyt, enhances its stealthy appearance.

With only 30 pieces ever produced, this model is exceptionally rare. This particular example, numbered 30/30, was auctioned with a full suite of accessories, making it a prized collector’s piece.

These seven extraordinary Richard Mille watches from the Sotheby’s archive are more than just timepieces; they are masterpieces of modern horology. Each model tells a story of innovation, technical brilliance, and artistic vision—whether through groundbreaking materials, collaborations with sporting legends, or revolutionary design elements. For collectors and enthusiasts alike, Richard Mille represents the pinnacle of contemporary luxury watchmaking, redefining what is possible in the world of haute horology.

Advantages to Buying Richard Mille Watches on the Secondary Market

1. Access

Sotheby’s provides exclusive access to a curated selection of Richard Mille watches from its long established global network of sellers. As a premier auction house, Sotheby’s offers exceptional Richard Mille timepieces, from iconic classics to rare references. Our watch specialists are dedicated to sourcing the most desirable Richard Mille models from around the world.

2. Flexibility

Sotheby’s provides a concierge service to help source specific Richard Mille watch models not available online. Sotheby’s watch specialists bring decades of expertise in evaluating, authenticating, and presenting Richard Mille watches at auction.

3. Value

While authorized Richard Mille boutiques offer their latest collections, finding specific models—especially those with strong collector demand—can be challenging due to availability constraints. Sotheby’s auctions present a unique opportunity to acquire rare, discontinued, and highly sought-after Richard Mille watches that may not be obtainable through traditional retail channels.

4. Discovery

One of the greatest advantages of participating in a global luxury auction is the thrill of discovering rare and unique Richard Mille timepieces that are no longer available at retail. Sotheby’s auction catalog is continuously updated with fresh offerings, ensuring an ever-evolving selection of new and exclusive Richard Mille timepieces for collectors.

Buy and Sell Richard Mille Watches at Sotheby's

Sotheby’s offers a curated selection of the finest Richard Mille watches through auctions held in New York, Paris, Zurich, and Hong Kong. Expect to find rare and collectible Richard Mille models in every sale, ranging from rare historical models to contemporary masterpieces, showcasing the brand’s unmatched craftsmanship and innovation.

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