Richard Mille

RATTRADOPPELSPLITCHRONOPANTESECONDGRAPH aka My New Favorite

A while back, I purchased a Richard Mille RM005. I thoroughly enjoyed my time with the watch (sold). However, I continued to long for one of Richard Mille’s other models that not only had the unique case design, but also incorporates one of Richard Mille’s technically advanced movements (manufactured by Renald & Papi) that have become the hallmark of the brand – a model that better reflects the technical sophistication that is, IMHO, the essential character and soul of Richard Mille.

The Richard Mille RM004, with its advanced split second chronograph movement, has always been one of my absolute favorite watches. While there are other intriguing split second chronos available (e.g., the Lange Double Split and the Patek 5004), the RM004 is my favorite. Moreover, I did not previously own a split second chrono and, given the complexity of the movement, I wanted one for my collection.

While the RM004 called out to me loudly, I could never quite figure out where to fit it in my collection. It certainly is not a classic dress/work watch for an office environment. On the other hand, it is a lot of watch for sport/weekend duty. I considered the RM002 Tourbillion. However, while Richard Mille’s Tourbillons are certainly impressive and well executed, I personally prefer tourbillons offered by other brands. Moreover, the RM004 seems to better embody the Formula 1 inspiration underlying Richard Mille’s designs. Thus, I continued to long for the RM004.

A couple of days ago, a brand new RM004v2 became available to me and I simply could not pass on it. I was determined to find a place for it in my collection. I decided that, for me personally, the RM004 is best utilized as a weekend/sport watch, with an occasional foray into the midweek rotation. Thus, I pulled the trigger.

I cannot possible begin to explain the technical specifications of the RM004, which are considerable and state-of-the-art. A detailed description of the watch can be found here: www.richardmille.com .

What I can tell you is this: The RM004 is a visually captivating watch that is nearly impossible to stop staring at. When I wear the watch, I can not take my eyes off of it . . . more so than any watch I have owned to date. There is something hypnotic and compelling about the watch.

The unique case design is solid and robust, yet sexy as hell. There is, admittedly, a lot going on with the dial, but it is well organized, balanced, and wonderfully artistic in its presentation. Likewise, the movement is also a genuine work of art – this is another watch that I would gladly wear upside down.

Both the dial and the movement have a fantastic three dimensional feel, like a living organism growing from the core of the watch. I absolutely love the three dimensional feel of the dial and movement.

Equally important, the RM004’s split second chrono operates with seamless perfection . . . no jump or jerk . . . smooth as silk. The second hands split apart, then reunite, effortlessly, in perfect synchronicity.

I purchased a RM brown croc strap for the watch, which works great against the brushed RG case.

Needless to say, I am thrilled with this watch! It is like no other watch I have owned before. I hesitate to say, but I think my RM004 may be my favorite watch in my collection, and I may not be able to preserve it for the weekends.