Richard Mille: Ahead of its time

Richard Mille combines an obsession with innovation and a commitment to uncompromising quality in its unwavering pursuit of horological excellence 

Since its creation in 2001, Richard Mille has established itself as an exclusive fine watchmaker through its intelligent approach to involving the world’s top experts in the manufacturing process, down to the smallest detail. Utilising only the most innovative, state-of- the-art technology and materials – and an extremely rigorous quality- control process that leaves no margin for error – the Swiss brand creates timepieces that are both technically advanced and aesthetically distinct, challenging the traditional code of luxury watchmaking.

Created after Richard Mille joined forces with Dominique Guenat, whose family business Guenat S.A. Montres Valgines has been producing watches in Les Breuleux for more than a century, the brand has come a long way since its renowned tonneau-shaped RM 001 was first unveiled to the world. The watch’s groundbreaking concept, expertise, creativity and, most importantly, its in-house movement production development, captured the market and set Richard Mille on a path of exponential growth. 

In the decades since, the brand has progressively expanded its Montres Valgine building dedicated to the assembly of movement. The first step was taken in 2013, with the construction of the contemporary building Pro Art I for the production of watch cases as well as components such as plates and bridges, screws and some wheels. The expansion continued in 2018 with the Pro Art II facility, which houses the technical offices of the case and movement engineers, R&D teams and Art Direction department. 

Richard Mille made its first in-house movement in 2012 with the CRMA1, used in the exceptional women’s RM 037 Automatic Winding, while the latest lightweight CRMA7 and CRMA8 are used in sports watches. To date, the brand has developed 14 in-house movements – including eight automatic winding (CRMA), one chronograph (CRMC) and five tourbillons (CRMT) – that equip 60% of its production.

Passion, creativity, precision, craftsmanship and originality – each Richard Mille watch is a testament to the pursuit of excellence that has driven the brand since its beginning and will continue to drive it for decades to come. 

Also see: Artistic work fused into luxury watches