The Most Expensive Richard Mille Watches Sold by Sotheby's in H1 2024

A dominating force in the watchmaking world, Richard Mille watches have maintained relevance through their consistent ability to break new grounds and produce visually striking watches of extraordinary complexity. The nexus of sports and watchmaking have always been their expertise, and it follows that some of their most popular models are some of their most innovative. The reputation of Richard Mille has made it a worthy investment for sportsmen and watcher lovers alike, thus following that their pieces would fetch significant selling prices in the first half of 2024.

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.

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.

The Richard Mille Reference RM36-01 CA TI AO G-Sensor Tourbillon was sold for 324,000 USD in June 2024. Created in collaboration with French rally driver Sébastien Loeb, the Richard Mille watch was a testament to Loeb's unparalleled success in the World Rally Championship. This model was limited to just 30 units during its 2014 run. The watch's defining feature was the rotary G-force sensor, capable of detecting up to 6 Gs and providing a vital safety measure for drivers.

Encased in carbon nanotubes and titanium, the RM36-01 featured a manual-winding tourbillon movement to ensure precision and durability. The G-sensor was adjustable via the brown ceramic bezel to allow drivers to monitor both lateral and longitudinal forces encountered during rallies. Complete with original accessories, this timepiece offered a unique blend of performance and innovation.

The Richard Mille Reference RM015 was sold for 2,159,000 HKD in April 2024. Known as the Tourbillon Marine, this model was originally designed for the crew of the Richard Mille racing yacht, Scorcha. Crafted from 18k pink gold, the Richard Mille watch featured a skeletonized dial that displayed the intricate workings of the Calibre RM015 movement with 29 jewels. The watch incorporated a dual time complication, essential for managing time during ocean races that spanned multiple time zones.

Additional features included a tourbillon, torque indicator, and power reserve indicator, all housed within a 48mm x 39mm case. The crown featured a pusher mechanism similar to Rolex's Ring Command bezel, allowing for easy adjustments. This combination of functionality and design made the RM015 a valuable tool for ocean racers and a symbol of Richard Mille watch engineering excellence.

The Richard Mille RM002 was sold for 241,300 CHF in May 2024. Introduced in 2002, it was the second watch ever created by the brand and built upon the success of its predecessor. The Richard Mille RM002 introduced the world's first function selector, marking a significant innovation in watchmaking. This model featured a white gold case and semi-skeletonized dial, housing the Calibre RM002 V2 manual winding movement with 30 jewels.

The Richard RM002-V2 was released in 2005 and further advanced Richard Mille's use of materials with a carbon nanofiber baseplate, offering exceptional thermometric stability and chemical inertness. The function selector was positioned at 4 o'clock and controlled the watch's operations including winding, time-setting, and a neutral position for free rotation. Complete with its original presentation case and documentation, the RM002-V2 was a pivotal model in the Richard Mille brand's history and embodied the brand's commitment to innovation and excellence.

The first half of 2024 demonstrated the continued appeal of Richard Mille watches at Sotheby’s auctions. From groundbreaking prototypes to models with unique features and provenance, each of these timepieces exemplified the brand’s dedication to pushing the boundaries of horology. Their rarity, coupled with innovative design and connections to prominent figures, ensured their place as sought-after pieces in the world of luxury watch collecting.

At Sotheby’s, our Richard Mille specialists have brought, and continue to bring, a wide range of Richard Mille watches to market. Sotheby's is on hand to support as a trusted partner for selling or purchasing one of these extraordinary watches.

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The 5 Most Expensive Richard Mille Watches Sold At Auction