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Rapper Jay-Z spotted wearing Richard Mille

Throwback to 2002: Jay-Z Rocks First Richard Mille Timepiece Ever Made

Jay-Z is a man who knows his watches. The iconic rapper has been spotted wearing all manner of incredible timepieces, from classic Rolexes to rare Patek Philippes. But back in 2002, Jay-Z made waves in the watch world by stepping out wearing the first Richard Mille timepiece ever made.

The RM001 Tourbillon in red gold was a game-changer for the Swiss watchmaker. It boasted the brand's trademark shock-resistance and ergonomic comfort, but also featured some truly innovative features. On the dial, a power reserve indicator shows that the watch could run for an astonishing 70 hours without needing to be wound. And a torque indicator gives the wearer a chance to optimize the movement timing.

This groundbreaking piece was unveiled behind the scenes of Baselworld 2001, with Richard Mille himself throwing the watch on the ground to demonstrate its durability to potential retailers, partners, and clients. And it seems to have worked - the limited edition of just 17 watches quickly sold out, with a retail price of $289,000 at the time.

Looking back, it's clear that the RM001 Tourbillon was a sign of things to come for Richard Mille. Today, the brand is known for its cutting-edge materials and avant-garde designs, and continues to push the boundaries of what's possible in watchmaking. But that first watch, worn by Jay-Z more than 18 years ago, remains a cherished part of the brand's history.