Pharrell Williams’ Signed Richard Mille Watch Up for Auction: A Unique Opportunity for Collectors
Pharrell Williams, the renowned multi-talented creator, is auctioning a rare Richard Mille watch featuring his signature through his curated auction platform, Joopiter. Known for his impeccable style, Williams is often spotted wearing the red-strapped Richard Mille RM UP-01, which holds the title of the world’s thinnest watch at just 1.75 mm. While this particular model dethroned Bulgari’s Octo Finissimo by 0.05 mm upon its release, the Italian brand has since reclaimed the title.
Williams, a long-standing collaborator and friend of Richard Mille, previously worked on the RM 52-05 and has now partnered with the brand for a one-of-a-kind red-strapped RM 65-01. This exceptional timepiece is available for bidding on Joopiter until December 13th, with an impressive starting price of $320,000. Its exclusivity is marked by its provenance; it not only carries Pharrell’s signature engraved on the caseback but also stands as a masterpiece of horological innovation.
The RM 65-01, introduced in 2020, took five years to develop and is celebrated as Richard Mille’s most technically advanced creation to date. Boasting over 600 intricate components, it features a split-seconds chronograph—one of the most challenging complications to design—and a rapid automatic-winding system in its skeletonized RMAC4 caliber, which is derived from the Vaucher VMF 6710. With an operational frequency of 5 Hz (36,000 vibrations per hour), the watch ensures exceptional precision, while its construction incorporates ultra-durable Carbon TPT, a hallmark of the brand.
Collectors may note that the initial bid for this 18-karat rose gold RM 65-01 aligns closely with the original retail price of non-signed versions. However, this model comes with exclusive perks; the winner will receive an invitation to a Richard Mille ultra-VIP global event. Options include high-profile gatherings like the Rallye des Légendes car rally, the Richard Mille Cup yachting race, or Les Voiles de St. Barth’s Regatta. The winning bidder can bring a guest and select an event that fits their schedule.
Although the auction does not include a personal meeting with Pharrell, the signed RM 65-01 offers more bragging rights than many other recent editions on the market. For example, Tom Brady’s RM 65-01, which lacks his signature, will be auctioned on December 10th as part of Sotheby’s “The GOAT Collection” sale, with an estimated value of $250,000–$450,000. Similarly, another RM 65-01 was sold at Christie’s for CHF 403,200 (approximately $456,600) on November 11th, with proceeds benefiting the European Leukodystrophy Association.
Proceeds from Pharrell Williams’ RM 65-01 auction will support Black Ambition, a non-profit organization he founded to empower Black and Hispanic entrepreneurs by investing in their start-ups. This sale combines high-end horology with a philanthropic mission, offering bidders the chance to own a truly exceptional piece while contributing to a meaningful cause.
You can find the watch up for auction over on Joopiter: https://www.joopiter.com/auctions/richard-mille/richard-mille-rm-65-01-automatic-split-seconds-chronograph-experience
