The 5 Most Expensive Richard Mille Watches Sold by Sotheby's in 2024

Richard Mille has cemented its status as one of the most innovative and sought-after watchmakers in the world, blending cutting-edge technology with artistic excellence. Known for their bold designs, lightweight materials, and groundbreaking mechanics, Richard Mille timepieces have become synonymous with luxury and performance. In 2024, Sotheby’s brought several extraordinary Richard Mille watches to auction, showcasing the brand’s exceptional craftsmanship and the unique stories behind each piece. Read on to explore the five most expensive Richard Mille luxury watches sold at auction this year.

Richard Mille Prototype 3 Reference RM27-01 Rafael Nadal Circa 2014, 1,270,000 CHF

Richard Mille Watch — Richard Mille Prototype 3 Reference RM27-01 Rafael Nadal

The Richard Mille Prototype 3 Reference RM27-01 Rafael Nadal was sold for 1,270,000 CHF in May 2024. This model showcased an exceptional blend of innovation and athleticism. A product of the collaboration between Richard Mille and tennis legend Rafael Nadal, this model represented the culmination of extensive research and development. Weighing only 19 grams with the strap, it was one of the lightest tourbillon watches ever produced. The movement, weighing just 3.5 grams, was rigorously tested by Nadal throughout his tennis season, proving its resilience against extreme shocks and movements.

Constructed from grade 5 titanium and aluminum-lithium alloy, the movement was suspended by braided steel cables, allowing it to withstand accelerations of up to 5000 G. The case was crafted from grey anthracite polymer injected with carbon nanotubes to ensure exceptional durability. Limited to 50 pieces worldwide and further rarefied by its prototype status, this piece was a coveted collector's item.

Richard Mille Reference RM026 CA Tourbillon Serpent Circa 2011, 6,000,000 HKD

The Richard Mille Reference RM026 Tourbillon Serpent was sold for 6,000,000 HKD in October 2024. Introduced in 2011, this exquisite timepiece showcases a harmonious fusion of fine watchmaking and high jewelry. Inspired by the timeless themes of nature and the passage of time, the RM026 features two intricately crafted serpents coiled around the tourbillon, both securing and enhancing its visual appeal. The serpents, made of 18k white gold, are adorned with rubies and diamonds, with one featuring a striking red coral tongue. The baseplate, crafted from pure black onyx, adds a touch of elegance and symbolism to the watch, while the serpents’ engraved scales highlight the meticulous handcrafting required for this masterpiece.

This particular piece is believed to have been specially commissioned for a prominent collector, making it a unique creation. The case is lavishly set with baguette and pavé diamonds, totaling approximately 7–9 carats, further elevating its grandeur. The RM026 Tourbillon Serpent stands as a testament to Richard Mille’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of both luxury and innovation in horology, offering a one-of-a-kind blend of artistry and technical precision.

Richard Mille Reference RM051 Circa 2011, 5,520,000 HKD

The Richard Mille Reference RM051 was sold for 5,520,000 HKD in October 2024. This special edition timepiece, created in collaboration with Oscar-winning actress Michelle Yeoh, embodies a seamless fusion of luxury, artistry, and technical precision. The RM051 features a striking phoenix motif, a design inspired by Chinese legend, where the phoenix symbolizes grace, beauty, and strength. This mythical bird, known as the emblem of the Empress, represents five human virtues: virtue, duty, justice, goodwill, and reliability. Adorned with diamonds, black diamonds, and emeralds, the watch exudes elegance and sophistication, making it a true statement piece.

The phoenix motif is ingeniously integrated into the watch’s intricate mechanics, harmonizing with the barrel, power reserve, and tourbillon. This blend of artistry and engineering elevates the RM051 beyond conventional timepieces, transforming it into a poetic masterpiece of haute horlogerie. The meticulous craftsmanship and symbolic design of this watch stand as a testament to Richard Mille’s commitment to innovation and collaboration with extraordinary figures like Michelle Yeoh.

Richard Mille Reference RM35-03 Rafael Nadal Quartz TPT Circa 2023, 508,000 CHF

The Richard Mille Reference RM35-03 Rafael Nadal Quartz TPT sold for 508,000 CHF in May 2024. This model captivated collectors with its skeletonized dial and advanced technology. Powered by the Calibre RMAL2 automatic movement with 38 jewels, this model boasted unparalleled precision and reliability. A standout feature was the innovative rotor geometry adjustment mechanism which was activated by a pusher at 7 o'clock. This allowed the watch to transition into Sport Mode by halting rotor movement during intense activities.

The Richard Mille watch was encased in Quartz TPT, a material renowned for its lightweight and durable properties. Complemented by a rubber strap and titanium double-folding clasp, the watch offered a secure fit and stylish, robust, and elegant design. Its association with Rafael Nadal further heightened its desirability among collectors.

Richard Mille RM35-03 FQ Baby Nadal Circa 2022, 384,000 USD

The Richard Mille Reference RM35-03 FQ Baby Nadal was sold for 384,000 USD in December 2024. Designed in collaboration with tennis legend Rafael Nadal, this watch features the innovative "butterfly rotor," a patented mechanism developed to protect the movement during intense physical activity. Activated by a pusher at 7 o'clock, the rotor can switch between winding and a balanced position to reduce wear. An ON/OFF indicator at 6 o'clock shows its status.

Offered in three versions, including the striking blue Quartz TPT case with a white case band featured here, the RM35-03 is a testament to Richard Mille's focus on performance and durability. This example, originally owned by Tom Brady and part of the G.O.A.T. Collection, includes its original accessories and a Certificate of Origin confirming Brady as the first owner, making it a unique collector's piece.

Buy or Sell Your Next Richard Mille Watch with Sotheby's

Sotheby’s offers a curated selection of the finest luxury watches available for immediate purchase, as well as through auctions held in New York, Paris, Zurich, and Hong Kong. Sotheby’s is proud to feature a diverse selection of Richard Mille watches exclusively through its auctions. These sales showcase a wide range of Richard Mille timepieces, from sport-driven designs like the RM035 “Rafael Nadal” series to sophisticated models such as the RM26-02 Tourbillon Evil Eye, known for their bold aesthetics and groundbreaking engineering. Each auction offers collectors the opportunity to acquire rare and limited-edition pieces that exemplify the brand’s fusion of luxury and innovation.

Prices for Richard Mille watches at Sotheby’s auctions vary based on model, rarity, and condition. Entry-level models typically start at around $100,000, while highly sought-after pieces featuring intricate complications or celebrity provenance, such as the RM56-02 Sapphire Tourbillon, can command prices well into the millions.