Richard Mille and Ferrari Unleash the Striking RM 43-01 Split-Seconds Tourbillon
“A RACING MACHINE ON THE WRIST”
NEW RELEASE | 320 WORDS | 3 MIN READ
21st March, 2025: The partnership between Richard Mille and Ferrari, though only formalized in 2021, continues to deliver high-octane horological creations. Following the record-breaking thin RM UP-01, a new chapter in their collaboration has been unveiled in Paris: the RM 43-01 Tourbillon Split-Seconds Chronograph Ferrari.
While the RM UP-01 stunned with its ultra-slim profile, the RM 43-01 firmly embraces the classic Richard Mille design language. It features a robust, curved tonneau case crafted from exotic and lightweight materials, housing a movement that is as powerful as the Prancing Horse it represents. This new timepiece marks the fifth in Richard Mille's lineage of Split Second Tourbillon watches, a journey that began in 2003 with the RM 008, showcasing a clear evolution and, for the first time, an asymmetric presentation.
Beneath its dynamic exterior lies the all-new caliber RM 43-01, a technological marvel three years in the making. Comprising 514 individual components meticulously assembled on a titanium baseplate, this movement offers an impressive array of complications. The deep connection between Richard Mille and motorsport is evident not only in the watch's aesthetics but also in its mechanics. Inspiration from Ferrari's iconic designs is woven throughout, from the shapes reminiscent of the SF90's taillights to the exhaust-inspired elements of the F80 flagship.
The dial, while skeletonized – a signature Richard Mille touch – presents its complications in a relatively practical manner. A 30-minute totalizer for the chronograph sits at 9 o'clock, the only traditionally framed sub-dial. An intriguing running seconds indicator is positioned at 5 o'clock, integrated within the 60-second tourbillon that features a free-sprung balance beating at 3 Hz and a cage with five arms marking 12-second intervals. Adding a distinct Ferrari touch is a decorative fin, inspired by the tail of the Ferrari 499P race car, proudly displaying the iconic "cavallino" prancing horse logo.
The true innovation lies within the latest generation of the split-seconds chronograph mechanism, a collaborative effort between Richard Mille and APLL (Audemars Piguet Le Locle). The operation of the timing functions is seamless thanks to the finely tuned internal workings, providing a satisfyingly crisp and smooth feel through the three pushers on the case. This sophisticated mechanism is also linked to the power reserve and torque indicators, ensuring optimal performance of the chronograph, which can time events up to 30 minutes and utilize the rattrapante (split-seconds) function to simultaneously time two separate events.
Every facet of the RM 43-01 exudes excellence, from the contrasting finishes to the intricate architecture of the chronograph components. True to Richard Mille's style, the watch reveals new details and perspectives from every angle, offering a captivating glimpse into the depth of its movement. Despite its substantial 17.1 mm height, the curved tonneau case ensures a surprisingly comfortable and ergonomic fit on the wrist, delivering a distinctly "old-school" Richard Mille experience in its form and textures.
The Richard Mille RM 43-01 Tourbillon Split-Seconds Chronograph Ferrari is more than just a watch; it's an emotional experience, a tangible expression of the drama and innovation that defines both Richard Mille and Ferrari. It continues their shared commitment to motorsport and represents a singular vision of horological and automotive excellence.
The Richard Mille RM 43-01 Tourbillon Split-Seconds Chronograph Ferrari will be available in two limited editions of 75 pieces each: a titanium version priced at $1,300,000 and a Carbon TPT version priced at $1,535,000.
For further information, please visit richardmille.com