
Z3's live report from SIHH 2012 provides an early look at Richard Mille's groundbreaking releases, particularly the RM 056 Felipe Massa Tourbillon Split Second Competition Chronograph Sapphire. This article offers a snapshot of Richard Mille's innovative approach to materials and complications, highlighting the brand's commitment to pushing horological boundaries. It serves as a valuable archive for understanding the initial reception and technical details of these significant models.
The 2012 SIHH PuristSPro Live Report
- Jon Z. (Z3)
Richard Mille
RM 056 Felipe Massa Tourbillon Split Second Competition Chronograph Sapphire - Case constructed entirely with sapphire crystal - first time anyone has ever done this.
Super cool, however, the few lucky owners needed to be reminded that the sapphire case also tends to be super delicate to wear - unlike metal, once the sapphire crystal gets chipped, there's no way to polish it...
RM 050 Felipe Massa Tourbillon Split Second Competition Chronograph
RM037 Calier CRMA1 Automatic - an elongated men's watch that reminds me of the elegance of Cartier's Tank Americaine. This is also Richard Mille's first stem-less crown system that allows the user to set the time, wind the watch, and be placed in the neutral position, without pulling out the crown, and therefore reducing the probability of damaging the crown.
RM 052 Tourbillon Skull (Tourbillon is inside the skull's mouth, also, the skull can be customized to allow for different materials and gem-setting) - an interesting memento-mori piece that reminds us that time is a "non-renewable resource"...
The curved bridge is also very difficult to do.
RM 053 Tourbillon Pablo MacDonough
Some variations on the ladies RM 007
RM 057 Tourbillon Dragon - Jackie Chan.
Jackie Chan has been a long term client and friend of the brand (he's a serious high end watch collector and is a "long term client" of many top brands). The word "Dragon" is in his Chinese name, hence, on the eve of the Chinese new year of the Dragon, it is also very fitting to roll out a novelty endorsed by "Dragon" Chan.
The Chinese character "Dragon" written on the back of the tourbillon.
It has been a pleasure serving you during SIHH 2012. Hope you have enjoyed the post.
Yours Truly,
Jon Z. (Z3)
This message has been edited by AnthonyTsai on 2012-01-24 11:12:13 This message has been edited by AnthonyTsai on 2012-01-30 19:28:17
Richard Mille RM007 Automatic Ladies
The RM007 represents Richard Mille's automatic ladies' offering within the RM 007 series. This 29mm reference was produced from 2005 to 2012, positioning it as part of the brand's women's collection during this period. The model features automatic winding functionality distinguished by its compact proportions.
The RM007 employs a 29mm titanium case fitted with a fixed bezel and sapphire crystal. The skeletonized dial reveals the AP-based automatic movement beneath, which provides 45 hours of power reserve. Water resistance extends to 50 meters, and the watch is completed with a rubber strap.
This reference appeals to collectors seeking Richard Mille's approach to ladies' automatic timekeeping from the brand's earlier production years. The titanium construction and skeletonized aesthetic align with the brand's technical presentation, while the 29mm case size addresses preferences for smaller proportions. The seven-year production window from 2005 to 2012 establishes its place within Richard Mille's developing catalog.
Some very attractive timepieces. NO comment on the prices. The Skull one feels great on the wrist. The Jackie Chan was one of my fav, love the work on the dial mixed with a stunning movement. Thanks. Vte This message has been edited by VMM on 2012-01-24 01:47:49
Yes with RM nowadays I will not comment on the prices anymore=) Jon
Great post , very informative , complete and with excellent pictures , thanks for sharing ( sadly for the first time for me I have seen model that have not been love at first sight)
So I just shared the photos and refer people to you for explanations. Nice running into you at the show. Jon
Must have been amazing to see them in the flesh...
i ll seriously want one if the skull were made in crystal, m really impressed with what RM done this year, cheers, Ed~ This message has been edited by lien on 2012-01-30 23:09:52
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