The classic car event had to be cancelled in 2020 due to the COVID pandemic, but it is set to return in 2022 and to mark its return, Richard Mille have unveiled a limited-edition RM 029 Automatic Le Mans Classic.
The Le Mans Classic event is held every second July but that wasn’t possible last year for obvious reasons, but now the event is returning in 2022 and 2023 in order to commemorate the centenary of the very first race held at the Le Mans 24 Hour track.
Richard Mille has been a partner of the Le Mans Classic since 2002 and this new model is the eighth dedicated specifically to this event. Introducing the RM 029 Automatic Le Mans Classic. The white and green colouring is synonymous with the event.
The watch features a skeletonised automatic movement with hours, minutes, seconds, a 24-hour display, oversize date, and variable geometry rotor. It also has a power reserve of 55 hours.
To create the baseplate and ridges, Richard Mille used grade 5 titanium with a Titalyt treatment that ensures rigidity and flatness. These components are then subjected to intense validation tests to ensure that they meet RM’s strength requirements. In other words, this is a hardy watch.
The case is made from green and white Quartz TPT. These provide a unique surface due to the process by which it’s made. They layer hundreds of sheets of silica fibres using a process that changes the orientation of the weft (the crosswise threads) between layers.
It’s a great looking watch especially with the colour scheme. The two white stripes are an aesthetic highlight. It looks modern yet classic, it’s a perfect celebration of the Le Mans Classic.
The watch is available now on Richard Mille’s website.