It was a premier, on the other side of the world. And yet… when put to the test, Le Mans Classic Japan was an outright success. More than 21,000 people came all the way to the Mine circuit to enjoy what will be known from now on as the Le Mans Classic Japan.

As the main sponsor for Le Mans Classic since its creation in 2002, Richard Mille was of course present for the first ever Japanese version. He knows the country well and has developed so many strong commercial links there that it is quiet an emotional affair.

For three days, the 3,331km Mine circuit was on Richard Mille time. As the official timer, logos were displayed on… the banners, the race numbers, the podium, in the village…
As for the racing, the format and the spirit were identical to that of Le Mans Classic, which will be returning for the third time next July. Four grids made up of cars built between 1923 and 1978 took to the start line, round by round. Amongst them all, the four magnificent winners … Riley Brooklands 9 (1928), Ferrari 212 (1953), Porsche 906 Carrera (1966), Porsche 911 (1973) and behind the wheel… needless to say, some very talented Japanese drivers.

The Japanese, who are big historic car collectors and connoisseurs of Richard Mille watches, were delighted to be there and enjoy such a spectacular event on home ground.

Taking part in Le Mans Classic Japan encouraged Richard Mille to come back with a new challenge. This was to prove once again that his passion for motor sport and racing cars is as great as for his timepiece creations, always with an unwavering eye for precision, aesthetics, performance, reliability and durability…

The next meeting for Richard Mille… the 3^rd Le Mans Classic, 2006 which will take place on the 7^th, 8^th and 9^th July on the real Le Mans 24 Hours circuit.