Richard Mille: Diamond-Set Masterpieces from the Sotheby's Archive

Since its founding in 2001, Richard Mille has redefined modern watchmaking by pushing the boundaries of both design and engineering. The brand is renowned for its avant-garde approach, seamlessly blending cutting-edge materials like titanium, carbon TPT, and sapphire with highly complex movements. Inspired by the world of motorsports, aeronautics, and high-performance industries, Richard Mille timepieces are not just watches—they are feats of mechanical and aesthetic mastery.

While much of the brand’s acclaim stems from its technical innovations and ultra-lightweight constructions, Richard Mille has also demonstrated remarkable expertise in the realm of diamond-setting. By incorporating high jewelry elements into its bold and futuristic designs, the brand has created some of the most dazzling and mechanically sophisticated timepieces in contemporary horology.

At Sotheby’s, we have had the privilege of auctioning a number of these diamond-set masterpieces, each representing a perfect harmony of innovation and luxury. Let's explore five exceptional diamond-set Richard Mille watches that have captivated collectors and enthusiasts alike.

Richard Mille Reference RM010 Circa 2018, 1,080,000 HKD

This Richard Mille Reference RM010 sold for 1,080,000 HKD in October 2024. This timepiece was one of 11 extraordinary Richard Mille watches in the 2024 Important Watches sale in Hong Kong.

A striking example of the brand’s fusion of technical ingenuity and high jewelry, the RM010 in pink gold was adorned with a mix of white and black diamonds, adding a captivating contrast to its bold design. Introduced in 2006, the RM010 was designed to meet the growing demand for larger cases while maintaining the ergonomic comfort for which Richard Mille is known.

Its semi-skeletonized dial showcased the intricate mechanics of the RM-AS7 automatic movement, equipped with a variable-geometry rotor that optimized winding efficiency based on the wearer’s activity. Further enhancing its durability, the watch featured a baseplate crafted from titanium—a material commonly used in aerospace and motorsport industries for its strength and lightweight properties. This combination of pioneering materials and exquisite gem-setting made this RM010 a highly sought-after collector’s piece.

Richard Mille Reference RM067 Circa 2018, 1,020,000 HKD

This Richard Mille Reference RM067 sold in October 2024 for 1,020,000 HKD during Sotheby's Important Watches sale in Hong Kong, showcased Richard Mille’s ability to balance bold design with understated elegance.

Encased in white gold and set with approximately 247 diamonds, this model exuded sophistication while maintaining the signature tonneau-shaped case that has become a hallmark of the brand. Unlike many of Richard Mille’s more robust sports models, the RM067 was designed to be ultra-thin, offering a refined and ergonomic wearing experience.

Its semi-skeletonized dial featured a function indicator, allowing the wearer to effortlessly switch between winding, hand-setting, and date-setting modes. Powered by the CRMA6 automatic caliber, the watch delivered both precision and performance, proving that Richard Mille timepieces are as technically advanced as they are visually striking.

Richard Mille Reference RM023 Circa 2010, 180,000 USD

This Richard Mille Reference RM023 sold in June 2024 for 180,000 USD as part of Sotheby’s Important Watches auction in New York, took inspiration from the earlier RM010 while introducing a more refined and intricate aesthetic.

Encased in white gold and fully set with diamonds, the RM023 featured an elaborate dial with Roman numerals applied directly onto the sapphire crystal—an impressive technical feat that required extensive research and development. This detail elevated the watch’s visual complexity while maintaining the brand’s signature skeletonized aesthetic.

At its heart was the RMA02 automatic movement, featuring a variable-geometry rotor that adjusted winding efficiency based on the wearer’s activity. This innovative system prevented overwinding and ensured optimal performance. With its dazzling diamond-set exterior and pioneering mechanics, the RM023 remains a testament to Richard Mille’s ability to seamlessly integrate high jewelry with cutting-edge horology.

Ricard Mille — Richard Mille Reference RM35-02 RAFA, Circa 2016

Richard Mille Reference RM35-02 RAFA Circa 2016, 241,300 CHF

This Richard Mille Reference RM35-02 RAFA sold in November 2023 for 241,300 CHF. The RM35-02 RAFA was developed in collaboration with tennis legend Rafael Nadal, adding an element of sporting heritage to an already extraordinary timepiece.

Unlike traditional diamond-set watches, the RM35-02 RAFA blended high-performance materials with luxurious embellishments. The case was crafted from carbon TPT, an ultra-light and resilient material engineered to withstand extreme conditions—perfectly suited for a timepiece associated with one of the world’s greatest athletes.

The diamond-set details provided a striking contrast to the rugged carbon fiber aesthetic, proving that durability and opulence can coexist. Meanwhile, the red accents on the dial and Nadal’s signature added a personal touch, making this watch a standout collector’s piece. With its limited production and prestigious provenance, the RM35-02 RAFA remains a highly coveted model in the Richard Mille catalog.

Richard Mille Reference RM037 Circa 2021, 2,032,000 HKD

This Richard Mille Reference RM037 sold in October 2023 for 2,032,000 HKD as part of Sotheby's Important Watches auction. The RM037 exemplified Richard Mille’s ability to merge avant-garde mechanics with breathtaking luxury.

Encased in white gold and fully set with diamonds, this timepiece featured a semi-skeletonized dial enriched with a striking jasper element, adding a unique organic contrast to the watch’s modern aesthetic. Beyond its visual appeal, the RM037 was packed with technical features, including an innovative pusher at 4 o’clock that allowed the wearer to seamlessly switch between winding, neutral, and hand-setting modes. A second pusher at 10 o’clock facilitated quick date adjustments, making the watch as practical as it was stunning.

A true statement piece, the RM037 stood out for its meticulous craftsmanship and dazzling diamond arrangement, cementing its status as one of the most impressive modern Richard Mille watches to appear at auction.

Richard Mille has continually redefined the boundaries of watchmaking, combining technical mastery with breathtaking gem-setting. These diamond-set creations highlight the brand’s ability to seamlessly fuse advanced mechanics with artistic brilliance. Each piece showcases a unique blend of innovation, luxury, and craftsmanship, making them highly desirable among collectors.

Sotheby’s is honored to have presented these exceptional timepieces at auction, offering enthusiasts the chance to own a part of horological history. As Richard Mille continues to evolve, its jeweled masterpieces will remain at the forefront of both high watchmaking and design excellence.

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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