Feature: 5 Richard Mille alternatives that won’t break the bank
Richard Mille is something of a watchmaking wonder. Mille himself is not even a watchmaker but a marketing whizz—which may point to how the brand has become so successful. Appearing on the scene in 2000, Richard Mille has become a watchmaker synonymous with the rich and famous these days, therefore making it a highly desirable brand among those of us who aren't so rich or famous. So, if you’re finding yourself strapped for cash, here are five more affordable luxury watches similar to RM pieces that might tickle your fancy.
Franck Muller Vanguard V 45 CC DT TT NR BR(5N)
Considered the original Richard Mille, Franck Muller was once the watch choice for swish sport stars. From footballers to flashy boxers, the only tonneau-shaped watch they were flaunting was a Muller. Nowadays that isn’t the case, as Richard Mille has taken the lead but that doesn’t mean Franck Muller is lacking at all. This Vanguard offers a sporty, rugged style in a subtle black and yellow colourway.
Zeroo Time T4
This handsome Japanese number makes for a nifty entry-level Richard Mille-style watch—music to the ears of those who are fans of the skeletonised dial, tonneau case and rubber strap associated with Mille. Going for $1,500 RRP, the T4 is a just a fraction of the price of the Richard Mille, making it a watch well worthy of a look-in, even if it is a fairly unknown brand.
Hublot Big Bang Full Magic Gold 601.MX.0138.RX
It’s no surprise that the self-proclaimed “artists of fusion” have conjured up a piece that is reminiscent of the outlandish designs of Richard Mille. Hublot—already established as a boundary-pushing watchmaker—created this limited-edition Big Bang with skeletonised dial, a signature rubber strap and open caseback where the in-house HUB4700 movement is displayed.
Corum Bridge 05.0002
Since its launch in 1955, Corum has released a string of off-the-wall designs—and this Bridge model is one of them. First unveiled in 1980, the Bridge is characterised by the unique baguette-shaped movement that runs through it. Encased in glass and yellow gold, this watch offers an abundance of magical appeal that could charm any fan of unorthodox design into adding it to their collection.
IWC Da Vinci Chronograph IW376417
The Da Vinci collection has been around for over 30 years and offers some of the most stylish and chic creations from IWC. Taking a step back from the skeletonised dials and futuristic look of most of the watches on this list, this Da Vinci features a pared-down charcoal grey dial with two chronograph sub dials encased in an elegant white gold case. You can still sneak a peek of the movement that powers this retro-inspired watch, though, through the open caseback.
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