Introducing: The Richard Mille RM 12-01 Tourbillon

September 21, 2018

Richard Mille is back at it again with a new limited edition series that combines their TPT case construction with a equipped movement that is the evolution of that seen in the award-winning RM 012 Tourbillon.?Available in a handful of colorways and various signature Richard Mille materials, the new RM 12-01 Tourbillon blends specialized movement architecture and a classic complication with RM's recognizable chunky but easy-wearing tonneau case shape.? Initial Thoughts While I know it seems like RM drops a bonkers watch every week, even if (like me) you're not wild about tourbillons, the new RM 12-01 is quite the thing. Offered in four versions (each limited to 18 pieces via RM boutiques in the Americas), the RM 12-01 Tourbillon can be had in full Carbon TPT (black), Carbon and red Quartz TPT, Carbon and white Quartz TPT, or Carbon and Gold TPT. The 12-01 Tourbillon's lightweight case is 39.3 mm across, 48 mm lug to lug, 13.84 mm thick, and all four iterations come mounted to sporty black rubber strap with a titanium clasp.? The Carbon and Gold RM 12-01 (left) next to the Carbon and Red Quartz TPT model. The movement, which offers just hours, minutes, and the tourbillon, is based on the movement used in 2006's RM 012 Tourbillon, which would later win Aiguille d'Or at GPHG 2007. Along with a very technical unibody baseplate, the bridges of the movement are made from titanium and offer a buttressed architectural layout that works well with Richard Mille's usual application of skeletonized details. ? With limited production, availability only in the Americas, and an expression of a complicated movement that is important to Richard Mille, perhaps I shouldn't be surprised by the starting price of $828,000. These aren't watches designed for more than a handful of loyal RM enthusiasts, and while the insane price and the relative value of a tourbillon are easy to criticize (very easy), I implore all of you to endeavor to try a Richard Mille on your wrist at some point in your life. It's a distinct experience within the watch world and never fails to make me smile and marvel at their creation.? The Basics Brand: Richard MilleModel: RM 12-01 TourbillonReference Number: RM 12-01Diameter: 39.3mm (48mm lug to lug)Thickness: 13.84mmCase Material: Black Carbon TPT, red or white Quartz TPT, and gold and carbon TPTDial Color: Black/silverWater Resistance: 50 metersStrap/Bracelet: Rubber strap with titanium clasp Limited to 18 pieces, this is the full Carbon TPT RM 12-01 Tourbillon The Movement Caliber: RM 12-01Functions: Hours, minutes, tourbillonPower Reserve: 70 hoursWinding: Hand-wound Additional Details: Unibody baseplate and bridges in titanium Pricing & Availability Price: $828,000+ depending on version. Availability: Via Richard Mille Boutiques in the AmericasLimited Edition: 18 pieces of each versionFor more click here.