Richard Mille

In 2004, Richard Mille introduced its first automatic model, the RM 005, with a semi-instantaneous date-change.

The tremendous difficulty with the RM 005 was creating the titanium baseplate. The brand had to research and invest in the right type of tools to produce it. The challenge was not simply designing these baseplates, but also the methods required in their production. The watchmakers had to be extremely careful not to mark the PVD treatment while assembling the movement. It was a significant challenge with a high rejection rate but this is part of the brand’s identity and no-compromise philosophy.

The model also inaugurated the exclusive variable-geometry rotor, an invention that allows the movement’s winding mechanism to be optimized and personalized to the owner’s lifestyle by adjusting the six-position rib placement setting.

The patented mechanism modifies the rotor’s inertia, either speeding up the winding process in the case of minimal arm and hand movements or slowing it down when high activity sports are pursued.

Cased in luxurious white gold, the current example is in excellent condition and is being offered to the market for the first time.