Richard Mille

Tourbillon Chronograph Sapphire

Reference Number :

RM 056

Series : RM 56

Retail Not Listed

This watch is not for sale, this page is just for reference purposes only. If you would like to purchase this watch, please contact Richard Mille. If you are interested in selling this watch to us, you can contact us here.

Quick TakeThe Richard Mille RM 056 Tourbillon Chronograph Sapphire is a marvel of watchmaking engineering, boasting a sophisticated tourbillon chronograph movement encased entirely in virtually indestructible sapphire. This transparent enclosure offers a captivating glimpse into the heart of the watch, where intricate components orchestrate the ballet of timekeeping. The complex yet lightweight construction, coupled with the robust and water-resistant build, makes this timepiece a true testament to Richard Mille's commitment to innovation and technical prowess. On the wrist, the RM 056 transcends mere functionality; it is a statement piece, a conversation starter, and a fusion of cutting-edge technology with timeless artistry.

DescriptionThe Richard Mille RM 056 Tourbillon Chronograph Sapphire is a limited edition timepiece (only 5 pieces were made) that showcases the brand's expertise in complex watchmaking and innovative materials. The watch's most striking feature is its case, which is entirely crafted from sapphire. This transparent material, known for its exceptional hardness and scratch resistance, offers a unique view of the intricate workings of the manual-winding tourbillon chronograph movement within.

The RM056 caliber, visible through the sapphire case, is a highly skeletonized movement, meaning that its components have been reduced to their essential parts while maintaining functionality. This meticulous skeletonization process not only showcases the watch's mechanical beauty but also contributes to its lightweight design. The movement boasts a variety of complications, including a split-seconds chronograph, which allows the timing of two separate events simultaneously, a 30-minute totalizer for recording elapsed time, a power reserve indicator displaying the remaining amount of energy in the mainspring, and a torque indicator that reveals the efficiency of the power transmission.

The sapphire case of the RM 056 is not only visually impressive but also technically complex to manufacture. Machining sapphire is a challenging process that requires specialized tools and techniques. Richard Mille's engineers spent years developing a method to create the sapphire case for this watch, ensuring it meets the brand's high standards for strength, durability, and transparency. To achieve this, the case components are first pre-formed, taking approximately 430 hours. This is followed by a meticulous 350-hour polishing process to achieve the watch's signature crystal-clear finish. The bezel components are further treated with an anti-glare coating to enhance readability, ensuring optimal clarity under various lighting conditions. Despite its transparency, the RM 056 Tourbillon Chronograph Sapphire maintains a water resistance of 50 meters, thanks to strategically placed Nitrile O-ring seals. The case is assembled using 20 spline screws made from grade 5 titanium, a lightweight and high-strength material commonly used in luxury watches due to its exceptional properties. Additionally, abrasion-resistant washers crafted from 316L stainless steel are incorporated to provide further protection against wear and tear.

GenderMen

SignaturesRichard Mille

Country of OriginSwitzerland

Case Size50.5 mm

MovementHandwound

CaliberRM056

FunctionsSplit-Seconds Chronograph, Hours, Minutes, Power Reserve, Torque, Functions

Power Reserve70 Hours

Case MaterialsSapphire

Bezel MaterialsSapphire

Lug MaterialsSapphire

Case BackSapphire Crystal