A SYMBOL OF PROTECTION
Manual winding tourbillon caliber is assembled around a black rhodium-plated, 18K white gold black sapphire set baseplate.
Hours, minutes and power-reserve indicator
Power reserve : Circa 48 hours (± 10%)
Dimensions : 46.40 x 38.30 x 12.45 mm
SPIDER AND BASEPLATE IN GEM-SET GOLD
The rhodium-plated gold spider, set with precious stones, forms an integral part of the movement. The opisthosoma, the abdominal part of the spider’s body, stiffens the tourbillon bridges, and its legs support the two barrels.
The whole baseplate is machined from 18K white gold, polished by hand and then black rhodium-plated. Taking the spider web as its motif, the baseplate is then decorated and set with hundreds of black sapphires, an aesthetic tour-de-force.
MOVEMENT CHARACTERISTICS
Movement dimensions: 30.20 x 28.60 mm
Thickness: 4.97 mm
Tourbillon diameter: 12.30 mm
Balance wheel diameter: 10.00 mm
Number of jewels: 21, set in white gold chatons
Balance: Glucydur®, 2 arms, 4 setting screws, moment of inertia 11.50 mg•cm2, , angle of lift 53°
Frequency: 21,600 vph (3 Hz)
Balance spring: elinvar by Nivarox®
In the world of horology, the Richard Mille watchcase is considered among the most difficult to manufacture. This tripartite tonneau-shaped case is fully curved, which ensures the watch is ergonomic and comfortable.
The specific tonneau shape of the RM 19-01 requires 47 stamping operations including 21 for preparation alone. Tooling takes 4 hours, and the RM 19-01 is obtained after 250 milling operations. The finishing process requires a full day for grinding, glazing and polishing.
The power-reserve indicator is displayed using a differential power-reserve system with a printed red line on a moving disc located between 10 and 11 o’clock.
This type of barrel provides the following advantages:
• The phenomenon of periodic internal mainspring adhesion is significantly diminished, thereby increasing performance.
• Provision of an excellent mainspring delta curve with an ideal power reserve/performance and regularity ratio.
The central involute profile of the winding-barrel teeth and pinion provides an optimal pressure angle of 20°. This promotes effective rotary motion and compensates for possible variations in the engagement of the going train, thus ensuring excellent torque transmission with a distinct improvement in performance.
This additional security system prevents from accidental overwinding, which can cause damage to the winding stem or put extreme pressure on the barrel spring.
Finishing
Other features