New Rafael Nadel Watch by Richard Mille Has $775K Price Tag
All Richard Mille watches are crazy expensive because his kind of quality doesnโt come cheap. Still, the price of the newest model inspired by tennis champ Rafael Nadel is mind blowing: $775,000.
The RM 27-02 is the third timepiece that Mille has created for Nadel. The first was the RM 027 that sold for $500,000 and the second, the RM 27-01, carried a price tag of $690,000. Despite the extravagant costs, both lines sold out their entire production runs of 50 each in a short time and the new model is expected to do the same.
The RM 27-01 is closely patterned after the previous Rafa watches since itโs also a mechanical tourbillon that feels practically weightless on the wrist due to the use of advanced composite materials. Despite its lack of heft, the RM 27-01 is no lightweightโthe watch is built to withstand a G-force of 5,000.
When asked by CNBC if the price of the new timepiece was a bit crazy, Nadel agreed. โWell, from my point of view, yes.โ However, he then offered justification for dropping three-quarter of a mil on a watch: โBut the real thing is, itโs an investment at the same time. All of these watches are limited editions and Richard Mille is a selective brand. In a couple of years the prices are going to be higher.โ
While some athletes and other celebs are eager to slap their names on most any product if the price is right, Nadel has actually worked closely with Mille and contributed suggestions for improving the watches. It was Nadelโs idea to add a water-resistant sapphire crystal to prevent sweat from damaging the watch and to use bright colors like that of the RM 27-02โs orange wristband.
The partnership of Rafael Nadel and Richard Mille seems to be one of mutual admiration thatโs not likely to end soon. โItโs not just a sporting relationship with Richard, it’s a personal relationship,โ Nadel said. โI feel fortunate to be that close to him and in designing the watch. We work together.โ
