Automotive
Andrew (219) offers a captivating look into the 2012 Le Mans Classic, an event deeply intertwined with Richard Mille's brand identity. He explores how the philosophy of pushing automotive boundaries at Le Mans mirrors Richard Mille's approach to watchmaking, drawing parallels between racing car development and the evolution of high-performance timepieces. This article provides valuable context for understanding the brand's enduring connection to motorsport and its influence on their technical innovations.
The Richard Mille RM011 Flyback Chronograph Felipe Massa represents the brand's RM 011 series, distinguished by its flyback chronograph functionality within a 40mm case format. This reference was produced from 2007 to 2020, establishing it as a multi-year production model within Richard Mille's contemporary lineup.
The watch features a 40mm titanium case fitted with a fixed bezel and sapphire crystal. The skeletonized dial construction provides visibility of the internal components. The automatic RMAC1 caliber delivers 55 hours of power reserve, while water resistance extends to 50 meters. The timepiece is completed with a rubber strap.
This reference appeals to collectors seeking Richard Mille's flyback chronograph complications in a titanium construction. The 13-year production span from 2007 to 2020 makes examples readily available across different production periods. The 40mm case size and rubber strap configuration position this model for those prioritizing technical complications within Richard Mille's sports watch category.
http://i704.photobucket.com/albums/ww45/andrh_ppro/LMC2012/lm_1_19.jpg [Two of the ‘blower’ Bentley’s in the racing paddock.] Initially, Walter Owen Bentley (known as W.O. to one and all) was not interested in the fledgling endurance race held in a small town in north western France. However, by chance, a private entry in the second running of the race won, W.O. was encouraged to see the race for himself, and thereafter was hooked. The initial decade of the Le Mans du 24 Heures arguably belonged
http://i704.photobucket.com/albums/ww45/andrh_ppro/LMC2012/lm_1_24.jpg [The future car ‘now’: the alluring curves of the 1955 Jaguar D-Type] http://i704.photobucket.com/albums/ww45/andrh_ppro/LMC2012/lm_1_23.jpg As post-war austerity gave way to post-war growth, a small car firm in England emerged as the new racing force for both the new speed minded persona and for Le Mans. Jaguar had existed before the war, as part of the Swallow Sidecar Company, but it was the post-war car firm, headed by Sir
http://i704.photobucket.com/albums/ww45/andrh_ppro/LMC2012/lm_1_36.jpg Looking back, it is difficult to think of Bentley being the success it was, and perhaps now is, without the victories at Le Mans. Jaguar's reputation is still linked to its successful racing past. When both firms have come under new ownership, it is to Le Mans and the racing line that both marques have returned to reestablish their credentials. The commitment to racing ensures that the mechanics of the car are always at the f
Thanks Andrew for this overview of the event. I'm a bad boy, I live in Paris and didn't manage to go there yet. Next year ! Cheers, Mark
Hi Andrew, Thank you for your report. I was supposed to be there this year but was sick and couldn't go, so I've missed the last two editions! Le Mans Classic is a great event, that's clear. The Jaguar models you show are superb, but I love the Bentley pre war era (and post war too, at least until Volkswagen) and you made me smile with your gorgeous pics. Richard Mille indeed totally seems at his place there, unless the fact that he is not fond of vintage watches, but I understand he is fond of
...as always, and a very informative read! Even if you are not a car buff, there is something very compelling about the designs of these vintage race cars. They have a soulfulness that is hard to put into words. I commend Richard Mille for following his passions and you can see how racing and watchmaking collide in many of his pieces. While I don't love the new Classic limited editions (my favorite remains the round ultra-thin -- probably the least Richard Mille-esque watch in the collection), I
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