The Le Mans Classic is a gathering of automotive enthusiasts and vintage car aficionados alike such as Richard Mille partners, Rafael Nadal and Didier Drogba
This year, Le Mans saw the congregation of 800 competing cars, 900 skilled drivers, 9,200 club vehicles, and a whopping 235,000 enthusiastic spectators.
Adding a touch of glamour to the race were Richard Mille partners, tennis legend Rafael Nadal and footballer Didier Drogba.
In addition to the thrilling races and the star-studded lineup, the Le Mans Classic also introduced the exclusive RM 72-01 Le Mans Classic watch dedicated to the 2023 edition of the event. This timepiece, created by Richard Mille, celebrates the spirit of endurance, precision, and passion that defines the Le Mans Classic.
Adding a touch of glamour to the race are Richard Mille partners, tennis legend Rafael Nadal (left) and footballer Didier Drogba
Released as a limited edition of just 150 timepieces, this new RM 72-01 Le Mans Classic has a sporty look. Made of green and white Quartz TPT, the watch features a dial with multiple indicators. The timepiece gets its power from the skeleton movement with a flyback chronograph function, a first for an in-house calibre that stands out for its patented coupling system featuring two oscillating pinions and offering optimal performance, all to be admired through a transparent caseback. On the dial and highlighted in red is the number 16 on the hour counter which is a nod to the traditional start time of the legendary Le Mans race.
The Le Mans Classic has long been celebrated for its historical significance and the opportunity to witness iconic vintage cars in action on the legendary Circuit de la Sarthe. As one of the most anticipated events in the classic car calendar, it continues to draw attention from enthusiasts, collectors, and motorsport fans, making it an unforgettable experience for all involved.
Fans were not disappointed in this year’s event as it celebrates the centenary of the Le Mans 24-hour race. The entire weekend was a feast for the senses as spectators were treated to the visual and acoustic thrills of the combination of unique engines. Many other races supplemented the programme, offering an opportunity for some legendary Group C cars to relive their former glory and for Porches to battle it out amongst themselves like in the heyday of endurance racing.
Enthusiasts were thrilled to admire a gathering of true automotive legends such as the Porsche 917, the Ferrari 250 LM or the Alpine A442 in action all at the same time and place. While the Porsche and Ferrari wowed the crowd with their racing pedigree, the Alpine A442 added a touch of French finesse, reminding everyone of its victorious history in Le Mans.
However, it wasn’t just the renowned names that captured attention. The event also featured some unique curiosities such as the 1950 Cadillac Monster with its distinct features and unusual presence among the more conventional racing legends. The 1968 Howmet, powered by a helicopter turbine, was a true engineering marvel. Not to be outdone, the 1976 Ford Gran Torino straight from Nascar took everyone back to the golden days of American stock car racing.
Overall, the event was a dream come true for car enthusiasts, offering a unique opportunity to witness both legendary racing cars and extraordinary oddities from automotive history, all in one place.
See also: Defying traditions
Celebrating with Le Mens Classic
•The RM 72-01 Le Mans Classic is an exclusive model to celebrate the centenary of Le Mans.
• The RM 72-01 LMC showcases a flyback chronograph with synchronised hands to echo the performance of Le Mans race cars during a double lap of the 13.626km circuit.
• The hour counter features a red underline at 16, paying homage to the traditional start time of the endurance race.
• The titanium dial of the watch displays the pattern of the chequered flag, symbolising victory and celebration at the end of the race.
• The timepiece incorporates a patented double oscillating pinion clutch mechanism for optimal performance, making it the company’s first flyback chronograph.
• The self-winding movement has been redesigned and features hours, minutes, small seconds, date, and a function indicator, along with a 50-hour power reserve, regardless of whether the chronograph is in use.
• The watch serves as an ambassador for the legendary Le Mans event, which has achieved international recognition.
