Rafael Nadal and Richard Mille Are a Watch Collab for the Ages. Here’s Every Piece They’ve Made Together.
Rafael Nadal’s enduring partnership with luxury watchmaker Richard Mille has not only redefined the synergy between sports and horology but has also produced a stunning collection of timepieces, culminating in their latest collaboration, the RM 35-03.
The collaboration commenced in 2010 with the introduction of the groundbreaking RM 027. This tourbillon, weighing less than 20 grams, showcased a carbon composite case and flexible polycarbonate strap, epitomizing the fusion of form and function tailored for the tennis court. The subsequent RM 035, featuring a skeletonized dial and a magnesium-aluminum alloy build, attained Chronofiable certification, setting new standards for durability under extreme conditions.
The evolution continued with the RM 27-01 in 2013, a lighter iteration with enhanced shock resistance. In 2014, the RM 35-01 brought subtle updates, incorporating Rafa’s signature colors as a tribute to his Spanish roots. The RM 27-02, introduced in 2015, boasted a revolutionary “unibody” design, fusing case and baseplate for unparalleled impact resistance.
In 2016, the RM 35-02 marked a departure in both color and functionality, introducing an automatic caliber. The following year saw the bold RM 27-03, featuring a vibrant case and strap, coupled with a tourbillon movement capable of withstanding 10,000 Gs.
2017 witnessed exclusive Toro editions for the U.S. market, paying homage to Nadal’s third U.S. Open title. The RM 27-04, introduced in 2020, celebrated a decade of collaboration, showcasing TitaCarb—a carbon fiber-reinforced polyamide—and a unique dial reminiscent of tennis racket strings, with upgraded shock resistance of 12,000 Gs.
As Nadal prepares for a triumphant return to the ATP tour after a challenging year of recovery, Richard Mille unveils the RM 35-03 in December 2023. Available in three versions, this timepiece features technical innovations like a butterfly rotor, allowing direct interaction and control of winding speed based on lifestyle and activity levels.
Nadal’s journey with Richard Mille transcends conventional sports endorsements, showcasing a meticulous blend of craftsmanship and cutting-edge technology, leaving an indelible mark on the intersection of sports and haute horlogerie.