The new RM 75-01 Flying Tourbillon Sapphire exists in three distinct expressions. Two of these, produced in editions of 10 pieces each, combine clear and coloured sapphire crystal, while the third, crafted entirely of clear sapphire, has been issued in an edition of 15.
Blending the crystalline transparency of the oceans with the majesty of gothic architecture, Richard Mille transcribes these influences in striking similes that guide conception of the movement, casing and decorative elements. The fully skeletonised RM 75-01 Flying Tourbillon Sapphire is conceived as an aethereal sculpture, with each component standing out through its precision and finishing, highlighting the flying tourbillon and flying barrel.
Sweeping arcs, omnipresent in this creation, translate fluidity and motion. The flange itself, daring in its proportions, evokes an architectural dome. Inspired by the ribbed vaults that have witnessed millennia and sustained artistic movements, this monumental frame in microblasted red gold rests on pillars of satin-polished titanium. Playing on vivid contrasts between solid and empty space, it imbues the heart of the calibre with light when darkness falls, thanks to touches of SuperLuminova.
A balancing act
The titanium baseplate, practically metallic lacework, firmly holds the wheels with their involute-profile gear teeth, the tourbillon and the barrel. The absence of upper bridges to hold these elements is what makes them ‘flying’, accentuating the skeleton effect of the movement, while nonetheless ensuring resistance to any situation. The bridges reveal ultra-precise craftsmanship that plays with volume and perspective, enhanced by pellucid sapphire and meticulously executed microblasted satin finishes. To contrast with the rhodium-treated wheels, the titanium baseplate in 5N gold PVD treated brings a touch of warmth to the mechanics.
A matter of transparency
The RM 75-01 is an ode to transparency, offering an unimpeded view bathed in the subtle hues diffused through the caseback. Machining sapphire represents a true technical feat. Working from a block weighing several dozen kilos, extracting a tripartite case requires over 1,000 hours, including 40 days of grinding around the clock.
The creation of coloured sapphire through the incorporation of metallic oxides into the crystal structure marked a second stage in the exploration of this material. The process requires extremely precise control of temperature and growth rate. The slightest variation can result in uneven colour distribution or the formation of bubbles.
With these latest references in the RM 75-01 Flying Tourbillon Sapphire collection, Richard Mille has gone above and beyond technical virtuosity to offer a veritable aesthetic reinterpretation of sapphire and, as always, assert a bold vision for contemporary watchmaking.
- A new sapphire collection comprising three models
- A movement specifically designed for a sapphire case
- Flying tourbillon and flying barrel
Reflections and architecture
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more information: richardmille.com
Photo Credit By richardmille.com
