Richard Mille Watches: The Hottest Target for Thieves

It’s just not safe to wear luxury watches in London, and the ultra-exclusive Richard Mille brand tops the list of stolen luxury timepieces. This year alone, an RM 72-01 worth £300,000 claimed the title of most valuable timepiece stolen in the UK, followed by an RM 055 TI White and an RM 67-02 Carbon.

Source: Richard Mille

According to The Watch Register, thefts often happen in broad daylight—seven out of ten losses occurred while victims were wearing the watch. Katya Hills, managing director of the registry, warns that high-end venues are no longer safe to show off luxury. “If you’re headed somewhere upscale, your better be leaving your watch at home,” she advises.

Source: Richard Mille

Richard Mille only produces around 5,300 watches annually, making them extremely rare. Their very recognizable design—often tonneau-shaped with mechanics on display—has earned them the nickname "the billionaire’s handshake." But that desirability also makes them magnets for crime.

 

Source: Richard Mille

Organized gangs are exploiting the demand. Spotters target wealthy watch owners, with accomplices on mopeds executing snatch-and-grabs, sometimes violently. Stolen pieces quickly disappear into the global black market, often leaving victims empty-handed and shaken.

 

Richard Mille’s exclusivity makes them the dream watches, but their rarity also paints a target on anyone lucky enough to own one.