Consistently in the vanguard of technical innovations, the ever-surprising Richard Mille is also known for his eclectic tastes. In 2002, this passionate Formula 1 and design enthusiast, creator of ultra-high-tech watches, made the surprising choice of acquiring a splendid 130-hectare 18th century estate in the Guerche region of Brittany (south-east of Rennes). The castle has previously been in the same family since 1771. It still has part of its broad moats, magnificent outhouses (including one in which “Sir” Richard has installed his office) and Frenchstyle gardens, along with some of the original interior wood panelling. Its imposing frontage has not less than 14 windows, looking out over a peaceful pond and serene woodlands. Hardly surprisingly, the fortunate purchasers of Richard Mille models greatly enjoy visiting the premises before or after a seaside luncheon. A regular passenger on the direct flight between Rennes and Mulhouse, Richard Mille travels to Switzerland around every ten days. This distance voluntarily established between the production location and his office enables him “not to get cornered in by little daily problems to solve them more easily”. With one thousand watches being produced each year and demand far surpassing supply, water will doubtless long continue flowing smoothly under Richard Mille’s imposing drawbridge.