Richard Mille introduces the RM 16-02 Automatic Extraflat, a reimagined take on the brand’s original rectangular RM 016. Price from CHF 120,000
Richard Mille introduces the RM 16-02 Automatic Extraflat, a reimagined take on the brand’s original rectangular model, the RM 016. This latest addition to the collection features a bold reinterpretation of Richard Mille’s signature aesthetic, balancing minimalist lines with technical ingenuity.
The timepiece is available in two versions: Titanium and the newly introduced Terracotta Quartz TPT.
Its architectural design enhances the watch's visual depth and demonstrates the brand’s dedication to integrating advanced mechanics with refined aesthetics. Drawing inspiration from Brutalist architecture, the RM 16-02’s rectangular case and interlaced forms create a visually compelling structure that highlights the precision of each detail.
At the heart of this model is the in-house Calibre CRMA9, an automatic movement specifically developed for this model.
The skeletonised baseplate in microblasted Grade 5 titanium with a grey electroplasma coating covers the entire visible surface of the watch. Only the minutes bridge stands out, distinguished by its black PVD coating.
The extreme skeletonisation of the CRMA9 Calibre underscores Richard Mille’s technical expertise.
This process involves the meticulous milling and finishing of 67 openings of varying sizes, each with chamfered edges. Completing this step requires nearly two hours of milling per plate and dozens of manual operations, resulting in an impression of lightness and transparency.
The baseplate reinforces the watch’s modern aesthetic while revealing its intricate inner workings. The bridges on the back lend its silhouette complexity. Like the baseplate, these parts have undergone rigorous 10-year aging and shock-resistance tests to ensure durability in daily wear.
Against the background of the 4 Hz (28,800 vibrations per hour) movement, the platinum oscillating weight, fitted with two Grade 5 titanium inertia blocks, is engineered for efficiency. The bidirectional rotor, mounted on ceramic ball bearings, ensures reliable winding of the 50-hour power reserve.
A distinctive feature of this timepiece is the hour markers on the dial, designed with a thread-like decal that appears to flow through the skeletonised maze of the movement, bringing the hours to life.
The extra-flat case, measuring 36 mm x 45.65 mm with a thickness of 9.50 mm, has been subtly refined for improved ergonomics compared to the original RM 016.
Its smaller size, 10% reduced from its predecessor, enhances wearability while preserving the brand's characteristic lines. The case is water-resistant to 3 ATM (30 metres/100 feet).
Two interpretations are available for the case of this watch. One is clad in full Grade 5 titanium with microblasted, satin finishing and polished bevels. The other sports Terracotta Quartz TPT, and entirely new colourway.
This singular shade is the result of an innovative process: silica threads just 45 microns in diameter are impregnated with a coloured matrix, then stacked with a 45° angle between layers and heated to 120°C at 6 bars of pressure.
The raw composite milled for the case is set atop a caseband made of Creamy White Quartz TPT. The result fully embodies the original intention of designing an object devoid of affectation, aligning with Brutalist principles.
The price for the Richard Mille RM 16-02 Automatic Extraflat in Titanium is CHF 120,000, while the Terracota Quartz TPT version is CHF 140,000. All prices exclude local sales taxes. richardmille.com
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