The centenary edition of the 24 Hours of Spa will forever stand as a milestone in motorsport history. In an extraordinary display of skill and endurance, the Comtoyou team clinched a memorable victory for Aston Martin Racing, marking the brand’s first win at Spa in 66 years. The #007 Aston Martin Vantage, driven by Nicki Thiim, Marco Sørensen, and Mattia Drudi, defied all odds by starting 14th on the grid to claim the top spot.
To celebrate this remarkable achievement, Raidillon has partnered with Comtoyou to create an exclusive collection of four limited-edition watches. The AMR-007 collection pays tribute to this iconic victory and is designed for motorsport enthusiasts and collectors alike. Each model in the collection is limited to just 55 pieces, making them highly coveted among watch collectors.
The Four Models of the AMR-007 Collection
The CTY/AMR 007 collection includes four distinct models: the Speed, Miles, Curve, and Gran Turismo. Each timepiece represents a unique aspect of motorsport, combining precision, performance, and design. As with all Raidillon models, each watch in this collection is limited to only 55 pieces, ensuring exclusivity for the lucky few who own them.
The Ultimate Collector’s Item: The 07/55 Platinum Tribute
Among the four models, the 007/55 is the ultimate collector’s timepiece. Featuring a platinum number plate screwed onto the side of the case, this exclusive model serves as a tribute to Comtoyou’s historic triumph at the 24 Hours of Spa. Platinum, known for its rarity, corrosion-resistance, and non-magnetic properties, adds a touch of luxury and distinction to this commemorative piece. Often referred to as “the gold of the rich” in jewelry, platinum elevates the value and prestige of this limited-edition watch.
Technical Specifications of the 007/55 Model
- Case: 42 mm diameter, brushed finish 316L surgical stainless steel, sapphire crystal with double anti-reflective coating, transparent case back, screw-down crown engraved with “55”, serial number /55 engraved on a plate.
- Dial: 12-hour counter at 6 o’clock, 30-minute counter at 12 o’clock, running seconds display at 9 o’clock, day and date window at 3 o’clock. Polished and faceted silver hour and minute hands with luminous indexes.
- Movement: Swiss-made automatic chronograph, Sellita SW500 caliber, 25 jewels, 48-hour power reserve, day and date function.
- Strap: Black Rally-style leather strap with fluorescent stitching, folding clasp with comfort extension link engraved with Raidillon logo.
- Limited Edition: 55 pieces, 3-year warranty, 10 ATM water resistance.
- Price: €3,595
The Three Other Models in the AMR-007 Collection
- GT-A-4007: €2,290
- MILES-C10-1007: €3,350
- CURVE-C10-3007: €4,550
A Belgian Legacy: The Story Behind Raidillon
Raidillon, a Belgian watch brand named after the famous “Raidillon” corner of the Spa-Francorchamps circuit, has become synonymous with precision and motorsport-inspired design. The circuit’s notorious bend is renowned for its steep incline and breathtaking speed, taken by Formula 1 drivers at over 300 km/h. In 2001, Bernard Julémont founded the brand as a tribute to this iconic corner, which had captured his heart during his own motorsport experiences.
Over the years, the brand evolved under new leadership. In July 2021, Patrick Gelder joined as CEO, bringing his extensive watchmaking expertise to the company. Under his leadership, Raidillon has undergone a revival, with a renewed focus on automatic movements, Swiss craftsmanship, and limited-edition releases that honor the world of motorsports.
Limited Editions: The Significance of 55
The number 55 holds special significance in the world of motorsport, representing the maximum number of cars allowed to race on the Spa-Francorchamps circuit. Raidillon adopted this iconic number for its exclusive watch collections, producing only 55 pieces of each model. This number is a nod to both the brand’s motorsport roots and the exclusivity of each timepiece.
Interestingly, the number 13/55 is never produced, adhering to racing superstitions—just as in motorsports, it’s considered “out of the running.” Instead, it is replaced with 00/55 to maintain the series of 55.
Swiss-Made Excellence
All Raidillon watches are Swiss-made and powered by Sellita automatic movements (SW200 and SW500). The brand has chosen to focus on Swiss craftsmanship and quality, with movements reworked specifically for Raidillon, including a unique oscillating weight shaped like a car steering wheel.
Production takes place in Le Noirmont, Switzerland, under the supervision of Marc Calmonte, who brings over 30 years of watchmaking experience. With his expertise, Raidillon has significantly improved the finish and quality of its models, ensuring that each piece is both beautiful and functional.
Belgian Design at Its Finest
Raidillon’s designs are conceived and crafted in Belgium by Adrien Van Mullem, a talented designer who has been with the brand since 2018. His designs emphasize the spirit of motorsport and luxury, with details like the iconic Rallye straps being crafted in Belgium at LIC in Oostende.
