Lewis Hamilton Showcases $1.5 Million Ferrari-Inspired Timepiece

Lewis Hamilton, the renowned Formula One driver, made headlines recently by donning a remarkable timepiece, the RM 43-01 Manual Winding Tourbillon Split-Seconds Chronograph Ferrari, during a press conference ahead of the Belgian Grand Prix. Priced at an astonishing $1.5 million, this exquisite watch was released in March 2025 and is available in both Titanium/Carbon TPT and full-Carbon TPT editions. Hamilton has consistently favored the black version accented with yellow, which reflects the iconic Ferrari branding.

According to Alexandre Mille, sales director at Richard Mille and son of the brand's founder, "Today's current Ferrari drivers are not the type of people you can just tell what to wear, so if they want to wear the watch, they are able to but it will be up to them.” This sentiment underscores the luxury and exclusivity attached to both Ferrari and the Richard Mille brand, making Hamilton's choice of wristwear particularly noteworthy.

The RM 43-01 is part of a limited collection in collaboration with Ferrari, with only 75 pieces produced. This watch is distinguished by several design elements inspired by Ferrari's storied automotive legacy. The Ferrari logo appears prominently at the bottom-left corner of the case, while the watch's grooved bezel draws inspiration from the hood of the Ferrari Daytona SP3. Additionally, the pushers are designed to reflect the lights on the rear of the SF90 Stradale, showcasing a deep homage to Ferrari’s engineering excellence.

Richard Mille's craftsmanship is evident not only in the aesthetic aspects but also in the technical specifications of the RM 43-01. The watch features a hand-wound caliber, also referred to as RM 43-01, operating at 3 Hz and offering a remarkable array of complications. These include a split-seconds chronograph with dual column wheels, a 30-minute register, a tourbillon, a power reserve display, and a torque display. The movement is constructed from corrosion-resistant Grade 5 titanium, with a skeletonized design that includes titanium and Carbon TPT bridges.

The development of the RM 43-01 took approximately three years, reflecting Richard Mille’s commitment to innovation and quality. The watch's hefty price tag aligns with its intricate design and functionality, making it not just a timekeeping device but a statement piece for discerning collectors and enthusiasts alike.

Hamilton’s affinity for such luxurious items is not surprising, given his status as a prominent figure in motorsport. The RM 43-01 serves as a fitting accessory for a driver of his caliber, amplifying the intersection of luxury timepieces and high-performance automobiles.

As the luxury watch market continues to evolve, collaborations like that between Richard Mille and Ferrari signal a growing trend where high-end timepieces not only serve functional purposes but also act as symbols of wealth, status, and personal branding. The RM 43-01 encapsulates this ethos, merging cutting-edge horological innovation with the storied legacy of one of the most prestigious automobile manufacturers in the world.

In conclusion, the RM 43-01 is more than just a watch; it is a manifestation of the synergy between luxury, technology, and automotive excellence. As Hamilton continues to represent both the world of Formula One and high-end fashion, his choice in timepieces will undoubtedly influence trends within the luxury market and beyond.