Introducing: The Richard Mille RM 33-02 Automatic

December 18, 2019

The RM 033 was first introduced in 2011, and today the successor has been realized as the RM 33-02. The new watch shares the same objective as its predecessor: Execute an ultra-thin, round watch (most Richard Mille pieces are not round) in a very Richard Mille way. This iteration is made from Carbon TPT and red gold, and the case is sized at 41mm. The caliber RMXP1 powers the watch, showcased by sapphire crystals on the front and back. The case, dial, and finishing have been updated to make the watch more versatile and sporty. The guiding vision of the watch was to design something that still had signature Richard Mille elements, like a host of next-gen materials and numerous finishes, but that can be worn for any occasion. Its also noteworthy that the company considers the watch suitable for both men and women; it suggests that the soft nature of rose gold and the tough properties of carbon create a duality fit for both genders to wear.? Initial Thoughts In 2013 Paul Boutros wrote a Week On The Wrist review of the Richard Mille RM 033, the watch that the RM 33-02 is based on. He was taken by the watch, and noted that its sensuous, wrist-fitting curvature worked on his 6.75 inch wrist. If the new RM 33-02 is a general improvement of the former design, then it may open new folks up to the brand who had not previously looked into Milles circular designs.?As an exercise in how materials work together and an effort to simply push the envelope of material science in horology, the RM 33-2 stands out. It features bits of titanium, platinum, stainless steel, carbon fiber, red gold, and rubber. All in one watch. The uber tech-forward aesthetic isnt something Im often drawn to, but when something like a Richard Mille is produced in a design thats closer to conventional shapes and patterns that Im accustomed to, it calls for closer examination. Watch design is generally quite conservative, and to a degree, stagnant. Im hoping that the technology and material innovation that Richard Mille is pioneering trickles down and is explored further throughout the industry. Whats most interesting is that even though it takes some serious machinery and engineering to produce materials like Titalyt and Carbon TPT, its still all finished by hand. Theres something romantic about that.? The watch is limited to 140 pieces, and theyre priced at $145,000 each.? The Basics Brand: Richard MilleModel: RM 33-02 AutomaticDiameter: 41.7mmThickness: 8.8mmCase Material: Rose gold, carbon fiberDial Color: Titanium and carbonIndexes: Oversized, luminousLume: Super-LumiNovaWater Resistance: 30 metersStrap/Bracelet: Rubber strap The Movement Caliber: RMXP1 (Based on Vaucher 5104)Functions: Hours, minutes, secondsDiameter: 33mmThickness: 2.6mmPower Reserve: 45 hoursWinding: AutomaticFrequency: 3 Hz (21,600 vph)Jewels: 29 Pricing & Availability Price: $145,000Availability: Authorized retailersLimited Edition: 140 pieces?For more, click here.