Richard Mille unveils the RM 43-01 Tourbillon Split-Seconds Chronograph Ferrari, the latest outcome of this partnership. Price from CHF 1,150,000
Richard Mille has unveiled the RM 43-01 Tourbillon Split-Seconds Chronograph Ferrari, the latest outcome of its partnership with the Maranello sports car manufacturer.
Inspired by Ferrari’s legacy, this new cutting-edge chronograph follows the first creation delivered in 2022 by this creative alliance, the exceptional RM UP-01 Ultraflat Ferrari, a watch just 1.75 mm thick.
The RM 43-01 Tourbillon Split-Seconds Chronograph Ferrari is limited to 75 pieces in microblasted and polished Grade 5 titanium with a Carbon TPT caseband; and 75 in Carbon TPT, a lightweight and durable thin-ply composite used exclusively for Richard Mille.
Measuring 42.90 mm × 17.10 mm × 51.20 mm, the case features a tripartite construction, ensuring water resistance to 50 metres / 165 feet with two Nitrile O-ring seals. Secured by 20 grade 5 titanium spline screws and abrasion-resistant 316L stainless steel washers, it is designed for maximum durability and structural integrity.
Ferrari’s Centro Stile contributed to the design, influencing key elements such as the crown, hands, and strap, which features a pattern inspired by the Purosangue seats.
A microblasted and satin-finished titanium plate, laser-engraved with the Prancing Horse logo, occupies the open space within the movement architecture, its form referencing the rear wing of the Ferrari 499P.
‘We have two cases to express two distinct personalities: a ‘gentleman driver’ ethos for the titanium case, and a more high-octane attitude in the carbon version,’ explains Julien Boillat, Richard Mille’s casing technical director.
Flavio Manzoni, Ferrari’s Chief Design Officer, adds: “In terms of performance, anything that has a technical purpose can also be beautiful. The concept of functional beauty is something that we really love.”
The architecture of the hand-wound RM 43-01’s movement draws from Ferrari’s mechanical language. The metallic finish of the baseplate echoes sandcast engine components, while microblasted bridges resemble the matt surfaces of Ferrari engine covers.
Angular structures, raised ridges, and contrasting finishes are complemented by golden hexagonal socket-head screws, design elements referencing Ferrari’s engine blocks and crankcases.
The barrel jewel setting is inspired by a V8 engine’s clutch wheel, while the case, pushers, and indexes reflect design cues from the 488 Challenge Evo, Daytona SP3, and SF90 Stradale. Like a Ferrari dashboard tachometer, the skeletonised 30-minute totaliser is prominently positioned within the dial.
Developed over three years, the 3 Hz (21,600 vibrations per hour) RM43-01 calibre is built on a lightweight, skeletonised grade 5 titanium baseplate with titanium and Carbon TPT bridges.
It offers a 70-hour power reserve, shown at 2 o’clock on a 5N PVD titanium dial, with a torque indicator displaying energy quality. A function selector completes the display.
The off-centre tourbillon escapement features a titanium carriage and an innovative active seconds display that uses five radial blades read against a 12-second index.
Developed with Audemars Piguet Le Locle (APLL), the movement refines the split-seconds mechanism through intensive R&D and simulations. A new generation of components has been developed to optimise power consumption whilst delivering more consistent torque levels throughout the power reserve.
“Our work as movement manufacturers is becoming increasingly scientific, which is helping us create components that are even more durable whilst delivering even better performance,” explains Salvador Arbona, Richard Mille’s movement technical director.
Every aspect of the RM 43-01 Tourbillon Split-Seconds Chronograph Ferrari was designed with performance in mind, much like a Ferrari automobile. From material selection to micro-component engineering, each decision influences both integrity and functionality.
Rigorous shock testing, simulations, and research ensure that every part meets Richard Mille’s exacting standards.
The Richard Mille RM 43-01 Titanium is priced at CHF 1,150,000 (excl. taxes), while the RM 43-01 Carbon TPT is CHF 1,350,000 (excl. taxes).
Exemplifying the fusion of watchmaking and automotive innovation, these new timepieces capture Ferrari’s racing spirit in a mechanical masterpiece. richardmille.com
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