The Highly Anticipated Sapphire Watch "RM056" Also on Display

Richard Mille debuted in 2001 with the "RM001," which has since become a legendary masterpiece. The brand, conceptualized as "the F1 of watches," relentlessly pursues the highest possible watchmaking standards. This year marks its 10th anniversary in Japan, celebrated with a special event held at the Seito Kinenkan in Meiji Jingu Gaien.

The one-night-only "Musée RICHARD MILLE" showcased the brand's journey of continuous evolution, driven by its unique concept and meticulous attention to detail, with a comprehensive display of its historical collections. Among them, the special exhibition of the latest "RM056," unveiled at this year's "SIHH," garnered the most attention. Its defining feature is the case – front, sides, and back – entirely crafted from transparent sapphire crystal.

Richard Mille himself stated, "It's like giving form to a boy's curiosity, wanting to see the engine inside a car by looking through it." He explained that after years of research into strength and wearability, which are the brand's hallmarks, they arrived at the method of carving from a massive block of sapphire crystal. It is not difficult to imagine that his demands required exceptionally advanced techniques for actual production.



Sapphire crystal, while possessing a hardness second only to diamond, also has a tendency to fracture along specific planes. This necessitates an astonishing 430 hours for carving and 350 hours for polishing, demanding immense artisanal skill. The movement is a split-secondschronograph tourbillon, featuring intricate mechanisms such as an inline lever escapement, a high-speed rotating barrel, and a torque-limiting winding crown. With only five pieces created worldwide, the price is ¥147 million.

Richard Mille, the company's CEO, personally attended the event, having traveled from France. He expressed his gratitude, stating, "Although our company is only 11 years old and has been in Japan for 10 years – still 'young' – I am thankful to everyone who loves Richard Mille for allowing us to celebrate this day on such a magnificent stage." He celebrated this memorable day with the attendees.

The watchmaking world, with its history dating back to the 17th century, is undeniably traditional, yet also a somewhat insular industry. Into this arena, Richard Mille, in just its 11th year of operation, has risen to be mentioned alongside established maisons with over two centuries of history. We will continue to watch its style, which respects tradition without devaluing it, and leads the watch industry toward innovation with bold ideas.

Richard Mille / Richard Mille Ginza
Tel. 03-5537-6688
http://www.richardmille.jp/