Richard Mille, the trailblazing Swiss luxury watchmaker, has recently unveiled the Richard Mille RM 21-02 Tourbillon Aerodyne. This latest release showcases the brand’s commitment to marrying cutting-edge technology and timeless design.
The RM 21-02 Tourbillon Aerodyne takes inspiration from its predecessors, with the core concept and RM21-02 movement dating back to 2009. However, this year’s model takes a bold step into the future with high-tech materials and a contemporary aesthetic. The watch features a striking black and white colorway that exudes sophistication and modernity.
Crafted from a blend of white Quartz TPT, Carbon TPT, and titanium, the watch’s 42.68mm case is a masterpiece in itself. The use of grade 5 titanium for the center caseband and black Carbon TPT for the pillars creates a visually captivating contrast. The multi-component bezel, combining black Carbon TPT and white Quartz TPT, is another testament to Richard Mille’s commitment to precision and artistry.
The watch is as functional as it is beautiful. An anti-glare sapphire crystal protects the dial, and it boasts a water resistance of 50 meters for everyday durability. The strap, made from white rubber with black inlays, completes the sleek black and white color scheme.
What sets the RM 21-02 Tourbillon Aerodyne apart is its innovative winding crown, which also serves as a function selector switch. This unique feature enhances user experience, allowing easy mode switching without pulling out the crown, akin to a car’s transmission.
The dial features skeletonized hands for hours and minutes, along with applied Arabic numeral hour markers. At 6 o’clock, the tourbillon takes center stage, while a function selector switch indicator is strategically placed near the 4 o’clock marker.
Two additional multi-colored arc-shaped displays near the top of the dial offer a power reserve indicator and a torque indicator, providing a visual representation of the mainspring’s tension and its impact on timekeeping accuracy.
The watch’s mainplate is crafted from HAYNES 214, an alloy known for its extreme stiffness and resistance to high temperatures. It’s finished in jet-black PVD to match the overall color scheme.
Powering this masterpiece is the Caliber RM21-02 manual-wind movement, with a frequency of 21,600vph and a generous 70-hour power reserve. The movement features grade 5 titanium bridges and incorporates a modular time-setting assembly for easy maintenance.
With an official retail price of $928,000, the Richard Mille RM 21-02 Tourbillon Aerodyne is a testament to the brand’s dedication to luxury and innovation. Limited to just 50 pieces worldwide, it’s a collector’s dream and a statement of uncompromising excellence in watchmaking.
For another recent release from Richard Mille, check out the RM 30-01 With Declutchable Rotor.
