Watchmaker Richard Mille is introducing a brand new model in the form of the RM 21-01 Tourbillon Aerodyne. As its name suggests, the watch draws on the influence of aeronautics. Featuring a 5N red-gold and Carbon TPT case, the watch integrates a tourbillon and is a limited edition of only 50 pieces.
The new model’s case measures 42.68 (width) x 50.12 (length) x 14.30 mm (height). It is made of 5N red-gold as well as Carbon TPT. The latter material is highly technical, consisting of 600 layers of parallel filaments obtained by separating out carbon fibres.
These layers, which are no more than 30 microns thick, are stacked in layers and saturated with a black matrix. The composite is then heated to 120°C in a kiln similar to those used for the production of aeronautics parts. Interestingly, during this phase, the layers of Carbon TPT create random patterns that make each piece unique.
Likewise, the dial of the RM 21-01 Tourbillon Aerodyne features a baseplate with a Carbon TPT core. However, the defining feature is the baseplate’s use of HAYNES 214. In combination with Carbon TPT, this nickel-chromium-aluminium-iron alloy is notably stiff and provides exceptional torsion resistance. Additionally, the alloy, with its honeycombed geometrical pattern, benefits from blue PVD treatment to highlight its construction. Additionally, a third material is also on show; the bridges, as well as the interior flange, are titanium.
The Richard Mille watch displays the time with central hour and minute hands. At 1 o’clock, the RM 21-01 Tourbillon Aerodyne displays a torque indicator. This provides a visualisation of the mainspring’s internal tension, allowing optimisation of the movement’s timing. Meanwhile, a power reserve indicator lies at 11 o’ clock. Interestingly, the watch also integrates a function selector, which is visible at 4 o’clock. This allows the wearer to differentiate between the winding, neutral and hand-setting functions. These functions switch via a push-button located at the centre of the crown. Last but not least, the dial exposes the timepiece’s tourbillon on the lower half of the dial.
Powering the RM 21-01 Tourbillon Aerodyne is the calibre RM21-01. The manual winding tourbillon movement offers hours, minutes, a function selector, a power-reserve display, and torque indicator. As well as having an approximate 70-hour power reserve, the watch has a frequency of 3 Hz. The sapphire crystal caseback also allows for a view of the movement. This includes impressive finishing, such as hand-polished anglage and locking sections, as well as lapped and polished contact points.
The movement also includes several other notable qualities. To name but a couple, the free-sprung balance offers greater reliability in the event of shocks or movement assembly and disassembly, and also guarantees better chronometric results over time. Elsewhere, the caseback displays the watch’s wheel-based time-setting system, which provides smooth time-setting functions by eliminating engaging friction and replacing it with rolling friction.
Finally, the RM 21-01 Tourbillon Aerodyne comes with a white rubber strap with a matching red-gold clasp, and is priced at 750,000 Swiss francs. As mentioned, it is a limited edition of only 50 pieces.
