While Ferrari have not been at their best during the current Formula 1 season, driver Charles Leclerc has still been making headlines – this time for his wristwear. Richard Mille and Leclerc have teamed up for a new limited-edition timepiece: the RM 72-01 Charles Leclerc.
A Subtle Debut for a Bold Watch
Typically, when watch brands and Formula 1 teams collaborate, the fanfare surrounding the release is nothing short of frenzied. However, this new launch flew completely under the radar. Leclerc had been spotted wearing the watch since the Bahrain Grand Prix, but it only recently gained attention as fans and watch enthusiasts began piecing together race-day appearances and social media posts.
Inspired by Motorsport and Monaco
The RM 72-01 Charles Leclerc is a striking interpretation of the watchmaker’s automatic flyback chronograph. Featuring a white Quartz TPT case, it is accented with bold red stripes – a nod to Leclerc’s Monegasque heritage. The skeletonised dial continues the red-and-white theme, replacing traditional hour markers with racing-inspired chronograph counters. A black crown, designed to resemble a twisting F1 tyre, adds a dynamic touch, while the red-and-white framed date window completes the motorsport aesthetic.
Under the hood, the watch is powered by the calibre CRMC-1, a high-performance movement boasting a 50-hour power reserve. But it doesn’t stop there – the watch also features a 30-minute and 24-hour counter, running seconds, and a column wheel control system with a double tilting pinion clutch. Operating at 28,800 vibrations per hour, the movement includes a platinum rotor with ceramic bearings for efficient automatic winding.
Exclusivity and Price
Although the release initially went unnoticed, anticipation quickly reached fever pitch. Richard Mille will produce only 150 pieces of the RM 72-01 Charles Leclerc, each priced at approximately £260,000. Collectors are moving fast, with deliveries already underway. Given the popularity of Richard Mille’s limited editions, it’s expected that the RM 72-01 Charles Leclerc will command an even higher price on the secondary market.
