Within the luxury industry, Richard Mille is classed as one of the more modern brands – not least because the brand’s history only dates back a couple of decades, but also because the designs are consistently driven by innovation, and by complex and incredibly technical details.
First launched in 2001, Richard Mille displays all the hallmarks of a classic Swiss watchmaking brand, but with a unique link to the modern audience. The brand doesn’t just adapt according to modern trends; it was brought to life as a modern brand, playing an integral role in where the watchmaking industry is and where it looks set to go.
The History of Richard Mille
Richard Mille is a company that was founded by the namesake himself, Richard Mille, and fellow watchmaker and design enthusiast Dominique Guenat. The aim, from day one, was to produce high-priced watches that combine the excellence of traditional watchmaking with all the trappings of a highly coveted luxury timepiece.
What’s particularly interesting about this brand is the fact that its very first watch, the RM 001, was released with an exclusive line of just 17 pieces. Even more surprising is the price tag, which surpassed £100,000, and the use of materials that weren’t previously considered suitable for refined and luxury watchmaking.
Mille himself says that, in launching the brand, he wanted to make a splash in an industry that he was already familiar with, and create a brand of watch that was unarguably luxurious and totally original.
This, more than anything, epitomises the impact of Richard Mille in shaping modern horology and watch design. Let’s take a closer look at how this works.
How Richard Mille Pushes the Boundaries of Modern Horology
When we study a watchmaking brand, particularly those in the luxury market, it becomes clear that each has carved a niche space in a very crowded industry.
Rolex is renowned for its professional series of innovative timepieces, while Audemars Piguet is renowned for tradition. Richard Mille goes in a different direction by creating timepieces for the modern wearer or investor, which support the functional everyday life of a 21st century wearer, while using the finest materials and the best manufacturing techniques.
Ultra lightweight materials are used to bring Richard Mille watches to life, while the release of new watch complications ensures that each piece boasts its own unique features that carry it beyond the trappings of a regular watch.
In terms of shape and structural design, Richard Mille watches stand out from the competition by being both brash and deliberately striking. When the brand launched, again it was Richard Mille who claimed that he did not intend to compete with other brands, but rather create and market something completely different and unique – tapping into that exclusivity that is so prevalent in the luxury goods market and that underpins the success of so many brands.
The Impact of Richard Mille on the Market
It’s fair to say that, in the 20+ years since its inception, the Richard Mille brand has grown somewhat of a cult following among those who herald and admire the brand’s commitment to functional and striking timepieces that are both timeless in quality and revolutionary in design.
Small details, like the exposed screws and the angular shape of the dial, make Richard Mille watches different – something that only serves to increase demand for and interest in the brand and its pieces.
And it doesn’t end there.
Richard Mille has enjoyed some excellent sponsorship and endorsement packages in its short history, working and partnering with the likes of Le Mans Classic and the Grand Prix, as well as across the worlds of aircraft, sailing, tennis, and even art. Rafael Nadal, the renowned tennis player, is a big fan of the brand and has his own named collection of RM 27-03 watches that are considered highly sought after. The brand has also worked with the likes of Jackie Chan to produce an exclusive action-inspired watch, Felipe Massa to launch a series of F1 watches, and the actor Sylvester Stallone.
What this shows is a commitment to not just modern horology and watch design but to modern and contemporary trends. This is a brand that cares about what its audience cares about, and continues to strive to be present in a variety of different markets to increase exposure and show how refined and luxury watchmaking is relevant across the world of sports, the arts, and beyond.
Is a Richard Mille Timepiece a Good Investment?
Suffice to say, Richard Mille is the kind of brand that you want to invest in, should you have the opportunity. And, with reputable resellers located in London, Dubai, and other locations, finding your perfect Richard Mille (or alternative luxury branded watch) couldn’t be easier or more enjoyable.
From an investment perspective, Richard Mille is a brand that has earned a name for itself in the past two decades – putting it on a par with much older names, including Rolex and Audemars Piguet to name just two. The success of the Richard Mille brand over the last two decades demonstrates an upward trajectory, which is only going to increase as the brand continues to push the boundaries of modern horological mechanics and design – with collaborations, partnerships, and exclusive status all feeding the brand’s status as a highly coveted, luxury staple.
When you buy an authentic Richard Mille, the value of your investment means that you will likely be able to sell the item for more money later down the line – provided you retain all the right authentication certificates and original packaging.
What’s also important is where you buy your Richard Mille, with only reputable and trustworthy resellers a safe source of luxury goods and accessories.
If Richard Mille is a brand that you’re interested in learning more about, or you want to browse the different collections and models that a 20-year-old brand has produced to such incredible accolade and status, then visit your local boutique reseller.