Richard Mille | SIHH 2016 Geneva Salon Live Report | RICHARD MILLE
WATCH & JEWELRY / SIHH&BASEL
February 10, 2016

Richard Mille | SIHH 2016 Geneva Salon Live Report | RICHARD MILLE


RICHARD MILLE


Pursuing Ultimate Luxury Through Cutting-Edge Technology (1)


Richard Mille, which has positioned itself as the "F1 of watchmaking," is establishing a new style of luxury through its pioneering approach to watchmaking. This year, the brand is challenging itself with new endeavors, including collaborations distinct from its usual sports partnerships.

By Noriaki Kawata




Pursuing Cutting-Edge Technology in New Collaborations





In recent years, Richard Mille has achieved success through collaborations with numerous athletes, including Rafael Nadal in tennis, Bubba Watson in golf, and Romain Grosjean in Formula 1. By pushing the boundaries of technology and employing advanced materials not found elsewhere, the brand has cultivated a unique sense of luxury and a distinct worldview.

At the 2016 SIHH, a collaborative model with ACJ (Airbus Corporate Jets), a manufacturer of luxurious corporate jets, was unveiled. This partnership also saw the infusion of Richard Mille's signature advanced materials and technologies, resulting in a unique style.

Alongside ultra-thin models, the collection even introduced a mechanical fountain pen with an astonishing mechanism. This suggests a move beyond being merely a watch brand towards becoming a luxury brand, sparking anticipation for future creations.


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Expressing the World of Luxury Jets


ACJ is the division responsible for manufacturing private jets for corporate clients. Based on Airbus jetliners, they create opulent interiors, offering an unparalleled airborne travel experience. The design of this watch is inspired by the elegant windows of such aircraft. The bezel, crafted from a plate of special ATZ® white ceramic, presents a beautiful finish.

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The titanium-aluminum alloy used for the middle case and case back shares the same composition as the turbine blades in jet engines. The screws securing the bezel are not standard Richard Mille components but are specially designed screws used in the aerospace industry. Furthermore, the movement parts are coated with the same protective treatment applied to aircraft engines and bodies to prevent corrosion. The use of materials and technologies akin to those in aircraft enhances both internal and external reliability.

The dial features a transparent sapphire crystal construction. Colorful markers evoke the appearance of gauges and instruments. This complication, skillfully embodying the world of luxurious jets, seems poised to open new horizons for Richard Mille.

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RM 50-02 ACJ Tourbillon Split Seconds Chronograph
Case: Titanium-aluminum alloy, ATZ® white bezel
Dimensions: 50.1mm x 42.7mm
Thickness: 16.5mm
Movement: Manual winding (Cal. RM50-02)
Functions: Tourbillon, split-seconds chronograph (60-minute counter), power reserve indicator, torque indicator, function selector
Strap: Rubber
Water Resistance: 50m
Limited Edition: 30 pieces (Boutique exclusive)
Release: Scheduled for within 2016
Estimated Price: ¥131,200,000 (excluding tax)



Page02.Richard Mille's Thinnest Tonneau Model




Contact


Richard Mille Japan


Tel. 03-5807-8162


http://www.richardmille.jp/







RICHARD MILLE


Pursuing Ultimate Luxury Through Cutting-Edge Technology (2)



Richard Mille's Thinnest Tonneau Model


Richard Mille watches prioritize durability, and many of their multi-functional and complicated models tend to be relatively thick. However, this watch was developed with the aim of being the thinnest tonneau model in the Richard Mille collection.

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Firstly, the movement is exceptionally thin. The caliber CRMA6, while featuring extensive skeletonization that creates a sense of depth, measures a mere 3.6mm in thickness. Crafted from Grade 5 titanium and treated with electroplasma oxidation, it achieves a refined yet robust finish.

The oscillating rotor is made of high-density platinum to enhance energy efficiency despite its slim profile. The gears in the train employ high-efficiency involute gears, similar to those used in automotive transmissions, ensuring excellent torque transmission.



The case housing this movement is only 7.75mm thick. The Grade 5 titanium case is meticulously shaped through 215 distinct processes. Its functions are limited to time display, date indication, and a function selector, offering a simplicity that allows one to admire its elegant form.

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RM 67-01 Automatic Extra Flat
Case: Grade 5 titanium
Dimensions: 47.52mm x 38.7mm
Thickness: 7.75mm
Movement: Automatic winding (Cal. CRMA6)
Functions: Function selector
Strap: Rubber
Water Resistance: 50m
Release: Scheduled for Autumn 2016
Estimated Price: ¥9,700,000 (excluding tax)



Page03.Luxurious Mechanical Fountain Pen RMS05




Contact


Richard Mille Japan


Tel. 03-5807-8162


http://www.richardmille.jp/







RICHARD MILLE


Pursuing Ultimate Luxury Through Cutting-Edge Technology (3)



Luxurious Mechanical Fountain Pen RMS 05


Richard Mille has created a fountain pen. This is not a joke, nor is it a novelty item. As expected from Richard Mille, it is no ordinary fountain pen. Utilizing their signature materials, they have developed the mechanical fountain pen "RMS 05."

The case is made from Richard Mille's proprietary NTPT® carbon fiber material, resulting in a unique surface texture.

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Upon first use, you might be surprised that the nib does not extend when the cap is removed. This is where the "mechanical" aspect truly shines. Pressing the push-button at the rear of the pen activates a series of gears, reminiscent of a watch's movement, which causes the nib to emerge over 10 seconds. The mainspring is wound by the movement of the cap being fitted, which simultaneously retracts the nib.

This intricate mechanism, developed over approximately four years, might even allow for a moment of decisive thought during the 10 seconds it takes for the nib to appear before signing a contract. It is a witty masterpiece that could pioneer a new category of luxury fountain pens.

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RMS 05
Case: NTPT® carbon, Titanium
Dimensions: 152.95 x 17.40 mm
Release: Scheduled for within 2016
Estimated Price: ¥13,000,000 (excluding tax)




Contact


Richard Mille Japan


Tel. 03-5807-8162


http://www.richardmille.jp/