Materiality

Richard Mille

‘Rafael Nadal’, Reference RM35-03 | A white quartz TPT skeletonised wristwatch with adjustable rotor, Circa 2023

Standard VAT applies to hammer price and buyer's premium

Lot closes

22:50:14

•

July 10, 01:01 PM GMT

Estimate

350,000 - 600,000 USD

Current Bid

380,000 USD

2 Bids

Reserve met

We may charge or debit your saved payment method subject to the terms set out in our Conditions of Business for Buyers.

Lot Details

Description

Richard Mille

‘Rafael Nadal’, Reference RM35-03

A white quartz TPT skeletonised wristwatch with adjustable rotor, Circa 2023

Dial: skeletonised

Calibre: cal. RMAL2 automatic, 38 jewels

Case: white quartz TPT, sapphire crystal display case back secured by 8 screws

Closure: blue Richard Mille rubber strap and titanium double folding clasp

Size: 50 mm length x 43 mm width

Signed: case, dial and movement

Accessories: none

Despite being a relatively young brand, Richard Mille has quickly established itself as a manufacturer of some of the most rugged and complex wristwatches of the 21st century. To test and enhance the durability of its timepieces, Richard Mille has collaborated with some of the world’s top athletes since its inception. So, it was no surprise when, in 2010, the brand announced a partnership with one of tennis' all-time greats, Rafael Nadal, also known as the "King of Clay."

The RM 35-03, sometimes called the 'Baby Nadal', is the fourth model in the RM 035 collection and introduced an innovative winding mechanism called the "butterfly rotor." Developed over three years, this patented system is designed to protect the barrel from the wear and tear caused by high-intensity movements in sports, where rapid rotor winding can occur. The butterfly rotor is made of two pie-shaped titanium pieces that can be adjusted into two positions via a pusher located at 7 o'clock. In the first position, the pieces form a half-circle, allowing the rotor to spin and wind the barrel like a traditional mechanism. In the second, more intriguing position, the two pieces align directly opposite each other, creating a balanced configuration that is less affected by gravity and movement, effectively halting the winding during intense physical activity. This system enables the winding mechanism to be optimized as needed. An ON/OFF indicator at 6 o'clock on the dial shows whether the rotor is engaged or not.

Encased in Quartz TPT, a signature material renowned for its lightweight yet durable properties, the watch is both robust and elegant and makes for an ideal high-impact horology that can be worn in the most demanding athletic environments.

Please note that the movement has not been tested for the accuracy of time and may need a service at the buyer's expense.

Sotheby's does not guarantee the future working of the movement and we do not guarantee the authenticity of any individual component parts since subsequent repairs and restoration work may have resulted in the replacement of original parts. You are advised that watch straps or bands made of materials derived from endangered or otherwise protected species (i.e. alligator or crocodile) are not sold with the watch and we reserve the right to remove these straps or bands prior to shipping. Furthermore, the watch may not come with its original manufacturers strap or band.

Prospective bidders should review the Conditions of Business, Authenticity Guarantee, the Guide for Prospective Buyers, and any Important Notice in the sale catalogue.

"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. All dimensions in catalogue descriptions are approximate. Condition reports may not specify mechanical replacements or imperfections to the movement, case, dial, pendulum, separate base(s) or dome. Watches in water-resistant cases have been opened to examine movements but no warranties are made that the watches are currently water-resistant. Please note that we do not guarantee the authenticity of any individual component parts, such as wheels, hands, crowns, crystals, screws, bracelets and leather bands, since subsequent repairs and restoration work may have resulted in the replacement of original parts. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue. In particular, please note it is the purchaser's responsibility to comply with any applicable import and export matters, particularly in relation to lots incorporating materials from endangered species.NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

**Please be advised that bands made of materials derived from endangered or otherwise protected species (i.e. alligator and crocodile) are not sold with the watches and are for display purposes only. We reserve the right to remove these bands prior to shipping."