The 41.7mm case of the new RM 33-02 has been reworked to project a sportier style. Photo: N. Boon
Source:
https://scmp.com/magazines/style/watches/article/3047127/style-edit-richard-milles-sleek-new-rm-033-automatic-sporty Watches
STYLE Edit: Richard Mille’s sleek new RM 033 Automatic is sporty, extra slim and suitable for both men and women
The RM 33-02 joins Richard Mille’s diverse range of watches made of carbon TPT, a hi-tech material the manufacturer introduced to watchmaking in 2013
Richard Mille has unveiled a sleeker version of the RM 033 Automatic in a carbon TPT case. Photo: N. Boon
In tune with the trend for slim watches, Richard Mille introduced its first ultra-thin round watch – the RM 033, in 2011. The svelte 6.33mm case of the timepiece housed a skeletonised, self-winding calibre only 2.6mm tall. To start the new year with a bang, the brand has just unveiled a sleeker version of the RM 033 Automatic in a carbon TPT case.
Much sportier than its predecessor, the new timepiece is a watch for “every day and any day”. The taut lines of the RM33-02 case combine the curves of a tonneau shape and the elegance of a round form. “We have reinterpreted its aesthetics without disservice to the original version by accentuating its lines. Meanwhile, the exterior decoration, case and dial have been reworked to project a sportier vibe. The RM 33-02 thus achieves a delicate synthesis of so-called lifestyle style and sporty style,” says Julien Boillat, who has overseen this project at Richard Mille.
The taut lines of the RM33-02 case combine the curves of a tonneau shape and the elegance of a round form. Photo: Jerome Bryon
The RM 33-02 joins Richard Mille’s diverse range of watches made of carbon TPT, a hi-tech material the manufacturer introduced to watchmaking in 2013 and which it has been using in many high-profile models. The 41.7mm case of the new RM 33-02, downsized from the original 45.7mm, has been reworked to project a sportier style than its previous version.
The three-part case has a middle section made of satin-finished 18ct rose gold for a touch of luxury (the original RM 33-02 models had precious metal cases); the bezel, case middle and back are secured by 14 spline screws made of titanium and abrasion-resistant washers made of steel. The solid metal, stencil-look Arabic hour numerals on the dial side are mounted on two linked, rigid titanium rails that are attached directly to the movement. The lugs flow seamlessly into the rubber strap, which visually prolongs the two indentations positioned at six and 12 o’clock on the bezel.
The RM 33-02 is limited to 140 pieces. Photo: Jerome Bryon
Powered by the skeletonised RMXP1 calibre in grade-five titanium, the RM 33-02 is limited to 140 pieces. Interestingly, Richard Mille is offering this watch as a timepiece suitable for men and women, thanks to its versatile characteristics. While the use of carbon TPT makes the watch tough and suited for men, the soft nature of rose gold makes it attractive for women as well.
The RM 33-02 offers the best properties from precious metals such as titanium, platinum, stainless steel, carbon fibre, red gold and rubber. Photo: Jerome Bryon
The RM 33-02 offers the best properties from precious metals such as titanium, platinum, stainless steel, carbon fibre, red gold and rubber.