While the new RM 30-01 Automatic with Declutchable Rotor timepiece is a highly complex mechanism, requiring craftsmanship par excellence, it still maintains the timeless lines of the classic Richard Mille tonneau shape.
To put it simply, Richard Mille does not make boring watches. If further proof is required, one needs only to gaze upon the manufacture’s latest new release – the extraordinary RM 03-01 Automatic with Declutchable Rotor – which is a revamped and more advanced rendition of the original RM 030 (which made its debut back in 2011). Essentially it can be described as a self-winding watch with a date display and power reserve indicator, although this only scratches the surface of what this tour-de-force timepiece encompasses.
The first thing to consider is the completely overhauled display, which has a much more open-worked aesthetic. The dial, interestingly, features a two-layer construction, with the first layer crafted from transparent sapphire, while the other makes use of titanium in a diamond-shaped design that mirrors the appearance of the plates and bridges of the movement.
The grade 5 titanium bridges and baseplate create perspective and depth through the multiplication of their parallel segments, while the curves of previous models have been eliminated to allow a diamond-based geometry to emerge. This, in turn, adds dynamic energy to the display of information, in which the power reserve, clutch engagement, and function-selector indicators all benefit from this unprecedented arrangement, highlighted by coloured transfers for added emphasis.
As the watch’s name suggests, the declutchable rotor feature is of major importance. It’s a complex mechanism that works to remove any tension linked to winding through a variable-geometry rotor that automatically declutches once the power reserve reaches 55 hours, and it does this by disconnecting itself from the winding mechanism. This enables the RMAR2 calibre to operate when the barrel torque benefits from the best constant torque/power ratio.
When energy starts running short – the moment the 40-hour power-reserve threshold is crossed – the rotor then reengages to rewind the barrel spring. This also allows the oscillating organ to operate while delivering excellent chronometric performance. For the wearer, it’s actually possible to observe these phases on the clutch engagement indicator, conveniently located at 11 o’clock on the watch face, which indicates whether the rotor is operating in the winding phase (on) or is disengaged (off).
The intricacies of the function selector are also noteworthy, since this feature facilitates everyday life by allowing the owner to choose their desired mode by simply pressing the pusher located at 2 o’clock. The highly visible indicator, positioned on the dial above the oversized date, illustrates the chosen option at all times – whether in “W” mode, for winding, “D” mode, for date correction, or “H” mode, for setting the hands.
Adding to the intrigue of this latest release, there are actually two uniquely configured iterations of the RM 03-01 Automatic with Declutchable Rotor available. One features a case back and bezel in 5N red gold, teamed with a case middle in grade 5 titanium, while the other is entirely machined in grade 5 titanium – which is not only a hypoallergenic material, but also boasts exceptional resistance to corrosion and shocks. Of course, despite being crafted from different materials both feature exquisite tonneau-shaped cases that measure 42mm in diameter by 17.59mm in thickness, with an overall lug-to-lug profile of 49.94mm.
Whichever version you prefer, both are beautifully enhanced with the same luxurious satin finishes and polished bevels. In addition, the overall weight has been reduced as much as possible – to a mere 96 grams, including the strap – while superior ergonomics result in a remarkably comfortable feel on the wrist. Finally, sapphire crystals with anti-reflective treatment are fitted to both the dial sides of the watch and its display caseback, while the water resistance clocks in at an impressive 50 meters.
The RM 30-01 Automatic with Declutchable Rotor epitomises the quintessence of the brand, revealing a true synthesis of the identity of its collections. It stays true to Richard Mille’s key values – ergonomics, pure lines, and exceptional finishes – despite the fact that all that complexity, coupled with the intricate geometry of the case, make it one of the most demanding timepieces to develop and produce in the entire watchmaking industry.
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As the Features Editor for Prestige Magazine Thailand, Canadian-born Bruce Scott keeps a close eye on what’s trending both in Bangkok and beyond. He enjoys live music, documentary films, and dinners with fancy wine pairings. When not hard at work keeping up with the latest restaurant and bar openings in town you’ll probably find him at the beach, most likely lying in a hammock with headphones on.
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