GMT "Spring-summer-2009-#19"Christophe Persoz
RM 019 Tourbillon "Celtic Knot"
Before getting down to the fundamental topic of this column, it is doubtless worth rendering to Richard that which belongs to Richard. Since his arrival on the watchmaking scene, Richard Mille has truly lent a new face to the architecture of both watch movements and exteriors. While one can doubtless associate De Bethune and Urwerk with Richard Mille in a non-exhaustive list of brands that have established landmarks for 21st century watchmaking, a number of others with an obvious lack of inspiration are pursuing the trail already blazed by Richard Mille. The famous catch-phrase “often imitated, never equalled” could easily apply to his work. The long list of those who have attempted (with varying degrees of success) to apply the Richard Mille concept offers definitive proof of his credibility.
The new RM 019 Tourbillon “Celtic Knot” is a vivid embodiment of the brand philosophy: innovative design and construction, the use of original materials, as well as technical performance-enhancing solutions, combine in a consistent harmony that appears natural and almost self-evident.
One striking example of this successful alchemy is the mainplate of the RM 019 movement, which is machined from black onyx. This gemstone offers the advantage of not reacting to differences in temperature, along with remarkable aesthetic quality and its reputation for absorbing negative energies and bringing great emotional stability to the person wearing it. The entire mechanism carried by this mainplate is secured by a bridge shaped like a Celtic knot and set with diamonds. A powerful emblem of the art stemming from this ancient civilisation, the Celtic knot suggests that existence has no beginning and no end and reminds us of the timeless nature of the mind.
The specifications of this tourbillon specially developed for women include other features including a differential power-reserve indicator on the exit barrel and rendered visible on a red line between 10 and 11 o'clock. The variable-inertia balance promotes optimal isochronism, while the tourbillon carriage pillars bearings are made in ceramics, which considerably reduces wear while ensuring an optimal technical response to tribological phenomena. Finally the use of a progressive-recoil winding click enhances winding efficiency by 20%.
The curve of the brand-signature tonneau-shaped case is highlighted by the airy lightness and depth of the movement it houses. The only new distinctive feature personalising the case of this newcomer to the collection is its crown equipped with an Alcryn collar. Its generous size facilitates grip and enables smooth and easy wind-ingguaranteeing 48 hours of running autonomy.
Once again, Richard Mille has pushed the limits of technology and aesthetic equilibrium in a highly accomplished and indeed unique manner. My choice this time is a means of saluting what I see as the finest ladies' watch that at last meets the expectations of a long-neglected market segment. With such incredibly ingenious and innovative products as the RM 019, one can only wish the brand all the best in its worthy efforts to avoid the effects of the current economic crisis.
RM 019 Tourbillon "Celtic Knot"
