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Richard Mille Debuts RM 72-01 Le Mans Classic Flyback Chronograph

Richard Mille RM 72 01 Flyback Chronograph Le Mans Classic Watch 0 Hero
Photo: Richard Mille

As you may have heard, this year marks the 100th anniversary of the legendary 24 Hours of Le Mans, but fewer people are familiar with the vintage automobile event that happens every other year on the same circuit called Le Mans Classic. Not nearly as old as its companion race, Le Mans Classic started in 2002 and is set to hold its 11th biennial race this week. Partnering with the event since its inaugural year is watchmaker Richard Mille, who also helped launch it. Every year since 2008, the Swiss firm comes out with a limited-edition take on one of its timepieces. And this year, it’s chosen the RM 72-01 Flyback Chronograph to do so, simultaneously honoring the centennial anniversary of the Le Mans Classic’s parent race as well.

Richard Mille RM 72 01 Flyback Chronograph Le Mans Classic Watch 1
Photo: Richard Mille

Dubbed RM 72-01 Automatic Winding Flyback Chronograph Le Mans Classic, the watch once again dons the vintage event’s official green and white colors on the case, rubber strap, and around the dial. The 47.34mm x 38.4mm tonneau case is made from TPT Quartz, a mineral and carbon compound typically used for racing or boating, and encompasses the notable skeleton dial. Inspired by the gearbox on a car, the dial features an indicator that tells you the current function of the crown.

Richard Mille RM 72 01 Flyback Chronograph Le Mans Classic Watch 2
Photo: Richard Mille

Just like the standard RM 72-01, the movement used for the timepiece is an in-house caliber CRMC1 automatic, which you can see through both the caseback and skeletonized dial. Boasting 50 hours of power reserve, it runs three chronograph registers operated by two pushers, as well as an unconventional vertically-displayed date window. Also unconventional are the baseplate and the bridges of the movement, which are crafted in grade 5 titanium.

Richard Mille RM 72 01 Flyback Chronograph Le Mans Classic Watch 3
Photo: Richard Mille

Limited to just 150 pieces, the RM 72-01 Automatic Winding Flyback Chronograph Le Mans Classic is priced at a staggering $335,000 from Richard Mille stores.