RICHARD MILLE | FELIPE MASSA, REF.RM011 AH TI, A RARE TITANIUM SEMI-SKELETONISED ANNUAL CALENDAR FLYBACK CHRONOGRAPH WRISTWATCH, CIRCA 2009

Footnotes

The Richard Mille RM011-FM "Felipe Massa" debuted in 2007 as a response to the brand's early challenges with scaling production. Although considered an entry-level model among Richard Mille's complex timepieces, the RM011 quickly became a flagship, embodying the brand's ethos of creating "racing machines for the wrist." Featuring the brand's iconic tonneau-shaped case and a transparent sapphire dial, the RM011 stands out as a signature Richard Mille design. Its white gold front and grade 5 titanium mid-case offer a surprisingly comfortable fit, even on smaller wrists. The curved case back, flexible strap, and compact 50mm lug-to-lug size enhance its wearability.

The sapphire dial showcases chronograph sub dials, an annual calendar, and hour markers. Surrounding it is a carbon composite chapter ring with luminous hour indices and a tachymeter scale. Powering the watch is the automatic RMAC1 movement, built on a Vaucher base with a 55-hour power reserve. The chronograph and calendar functions are added via a module from Dubois Dépraz, a specialist in complications. The movement features titanium bridges and plates, a black PVD coating, and a skeletonized design tailored specifically for Richard Mille. It includes a variable-inertia rotor that adjusts winding efficiency based on the wearer's activity level. A free-sprung balance and four rubber shock absorbers help protect the movement from impact, ensuring durability and precision. The current example, a limited production model, in excellent condition, and including all its original accessories, is a rare and beautiful example of Richard Mille's beloved classic.