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Hamilton’s Ferrari move comes with a $600K wrist upgrade

Lewis Hamilton's move to Ferrari has been the talk of the Formula 1 world, a blockbuster transfer that's not just about speed on the track, but also about style off it.

Gone are the days of Mercedes sponsor IWC keeping time for the seven-time world champion.

Now, as part of his high-profile Scuderia contract, Hamilton’s got a new horological heavyweight on his wrist: a $600,000 Richard Mille RM 74-02.

Because if you’re driving for Ferrari, being fast on the track is one thing—but looking fast while checking the time? That’s non-negotiable.

A Million-Dollar Wrist Game

During Ferrari’s 2025 race suit reveal, Hamilton and teammate Charles Leclerc weren’t just showing off their striking red overalls; they were flashing some serious wrist candy, too.

Together, the duo’s Richard Mille watches were worth nearly $1 million, proving that in Formula 1, precision timing isn’t just for lap records.

Hamilton’s RM 74-02 is an 18-carat red gold and black gold carbon masterpiece with an open-link bracelet – because a $600K watch deserves to breathe.

It took four years to develop, featuring layers of carbon TPT fused with sheets of gold, a detail so luxurious it could make even the most opulent Ferrari paint job jealous.

And of course, it boasts a tourbillon at 6 o’clock – because what’s the point of a watch this exclusive if it doesn’t have a complication that 99% of people don’t understand?

©Ferrari

Meanwhile, Leclerc sported the Richard Mille RM 72-01 Flyback Chronograph, a sleek $335,000 timepiece in titanium and red gold.

Unlike traditional chronographs, this one switches up the dial layout, placing subdials at 1, 5, and 9 o’clock – because why follow the rules when you’re a Ferrari driver?

Risky Business Away From the Paddock

Now, while these timepieces scream exclusivity, they also come with a bit of a target. Just ask Leclerc, who had one of his Richard Mille watches stolen in Italy in 2022, a piece valued at around $320,000.

McLaren’s Lando Norris also fell victim to watch thieves after being mugged at Wembley during the Euro 2020 final, losing a £40,000 timepiece.

So, if Hamilton and Leclerc ever find themselves nervously glancing at their wrists during a Grand Prix weekend, it might not just be for lap times – it might be to make sure their high-priced Richard Mille treasures are still firmly attached.

One thing’s for sure: whether on the track or in the paddock, Ferrari’s new superstar duo is dripping in style and precision timing. After all, in Maranello, it’s not just about winning—it’s about winning with flair.

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.

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