Watch Paparazzi

Royal Joaan Bin Hamad Al Thani spotted wearing Richard Mille

Sheikh Joaan Bin Hamad Al Thani, younger brother of the Emir of Qatar and President of the Qatar Olympic Committee, was recently photographed wearing what is arguably one of the most technically rarefied wristwatches in existence — the Richard Mille RM 039 Aviation E6-B Flyback Chronograph, an edition limited to a mere 30 pieces globally.

The RM 039 is not a watch that simply references aviation aesthetics. It integrates a fully functional E6-B circular slide rule — the analogue flight computer that pilots have used since the 1930s to calculate fuel consumption, airspeed, wind correction, and time-to-destination — directly into the mechanical architecture of the watch. Richard Mille's engineers developed a bespoke manual-winding caliber, the RMAS7, comprising approximately 497 components. The movement delivers a flyback chronograph function, a second time zone, a torque indicator, and the E6-B computational bezel, all housed in a case crafted from grade 5 titanium measuring roughly 50mm × 42.7mm. Power reserve sits at approximately 55 hours. The dial opens up the movement architecture in characteristic Richard Mille fashion, offering a direct view of the skeletonized baseplate and bridges.

From a collector standpoint, the RM 039 occupies a singular position. Richard Mille has produced numerous ultra-limited references, but the E6-B complication demanded a level of conceptual and mechanical originality that sets it apart even within the brand's own catalogue. With only 30 examples made, secondary market appearances are exceptionally rare, and documented ownership tends to cluster among heads of state, royalty, and a handful of serious independent collectors. The piece is widely considered one of the most important complications Richard Mille has ever commercialized.

Sheikh Joaan's watch sensibility is well-documented within collector circles. His public appearances have repeatedly featured pieces at the extreme edge of horological complexity and exclusivity, consistent with someone who approaches watchmaking as a genuine intellectual pursuit rather than a status exercise.

The UK list price is reported at approximately £1 million, placing the USD equivalent north of $1.25 million at current exchange rates. On the grey market, the extreme scarcity of the RM 039 means transactional data is sparse, but private sales are understood to command significant premiums over retail when examples do surface.