An Emblematic Model

The RM 011 Felipe Massa Flyback Chronograph was launched in 2007 and was immediately recognized as an important part of the Richard Mille collection. Prior to the RM 011, the only two chronographs in the catalog were the RM 004-V2 and the RM 008-V2, both of which were split-seconds chronographs, otherwise known as rattrapante chronographs. These were high-complication beasts built by Richard Mille’s supplier of innovative complicated movements, Audemars Piguet Renaud & Papi (APRP), and were priced accordingly.

In contrast, the RM 011 had an automatic base movement made by Fleurier-based Vaucher — the other main movement supplier of Richard Mille watches — the same one used in the RM 010 (which currently exists as a slightly enlarged, more openworked form of the RM 005). A module by Dubois-Dépraz, a trusted name in the watch industry, brought the additional functions of flyback chronograph and annual calendar to the RM 011.

As the standard automatic chronograph of Richard Mille, the RM 011 has worn many guises over the years, from a slew of commemorative special editions to sport-specific versions. The first RM 011 in 2007 was dedicated to Felipe Massa, by then an established friend of the brand who contributed valuable insight towards the development of Richard Mille watches to suit the high-octane lifestyles of the brand’s customers. The story of Massa wearing watches during Formula One races was well known and it was commonly understood that the RM 009’s development was significantly marked by Massa’s feedback. The RM 011 had a transparent dial imprinted with red and white markings, partly to evoke the racing aesthetic, but also to acknowledge Massa’s move to Ferrari from his previous team of Sauber-Petronas.

Two pushers activated the chronograph, with the pusher above the crown actuating the start and stop of the chronograph, and the lower pusher controlling the zero-reset and flyback function.

The Special Editions

One of the most outstanding versions of the RM 011 to be produced is the 2008 special edition produced in 50 pieces to celebrate the first Formula One Grand Prix held in Singapore, which was also the world’s first night race on a street circuit. The hour numerals were transfer-printed in alternating red and white, and the carbon-fiber dial flange and crown detail were in red, an allusion to the colors of the Singapore flag. The bezel and caseback were in black DLC-treated titanium in acknowledgement of the race being held at night. Further engraved on the caseback was a nod to the ongoing friendship between Felipe Massa and Richard Mille — it read “Felipe Massa’s 1st Singapore GP”.