This week, Richard Mille and Rafael Nadal marked a remarkable 14 years of partnership with the release of the RM 27-05 Flying Tourbillon. Now, this is no ordinary watch. This is modern engineering at its absolute finest, a testament to what happens when luxury meets innovation, all while keeping an eye on the clock for Wimbledon 2024.
The Evolution of the RM 27 Series
The journey of the RM 27 series began in 2010 with the RM-027, which graced Rafael Nadal's wrist, entering the world of ultra-sportswear. This watch series has consistently pushed the boundaries of lightweight and robust design. From the original RM-027, weighing less than 20 grams, to the RM 27-01 with its fully suspended movement at 18.83 grams, the evolution has been nothing short of impressive. Richard Mille continues to refine and push the boundaries.
The New Benchmark | RM 27-05
Enter the RM 27-05, a limited edition of just 80 pieces, and the lightest of them all, tipping the scales at a mere 11.5 grams. This watch is designed to be featherlight, with a full blend of cutting-edge technology and meticulous craftsmanship.
Advanced Materials and Engineering
Carbon TPT® B.4
At the heart of this incredible weight reduction is Carbon TPT® B.4, a material originally used in Formula 1. This isn’t your average carbon composite. Compared to standard Carbon TPT, it’s 4% denser, its fibres are 15% stiffer, and the resin is 30% more resistant. This allows Richard Mille to machine thinner components without compromising on the strength or durability of the watch.
Monobloc Case Design
The RM 27-05 features a monobloc case design, which means the case and case back are crafted from a single piece of the aforementioned Carbon. This design eliminates the need for screws, with the entire mechanism sitting inside the monobloc case back, topped by the bezel, and the crystal. This results in an ultra-light, ultra-rigid structure.
The Ultra-Flat Movement
The RM 27-05 houses a super flat movement, borrowing innovations from the RM UP-01 Ultraflat Ferrari. This movement is not only thin but also incredibly light, thanks to its skeletonized components. Every milligram and millimetre have been carefully pared away to achieve this feat.
The Flying Tourbillon Mechanism
One of the standout features of the RM 27-05 is its single-sided (flying) tourbillon. Traditional bridges have been removed, reducing weight, and the tourbillon is stabilised by a base fitted with ball bearings. This ensures that even under the intense shocks of a tennis match, the watch maintains its precision.
Rigorous Testing and Durability
The 'Nadal' Test
Rafael Nadal's watch is built to withstand the rigors of his powerful game. The RM 27-05 underwent extensive testing, enduring vertical and horizontal shocks with accelerations of up to 300 gs, tested by the man himself.
Aesthetics and Practicality
While the RM 27-05 may have a more subdued aesthetic compared to its predecessors, its design is purposeful. The movement’s sweeping arc, reminiscent of the bridges on the RM 27-02, adds a dynamic element to the watch. Despite its high-tech interior, it maintains an elegant exterior. The thinner profile adds additional luxury and sleekness to this new watch.
Price of Innovation
All this technology and craftsmanship come at a price. The RM 27-05 is priced at a staggering $1,150,000 (£900,000).
As Wimbledon 2024 approaches, Rafael Nadal will once again be wearing a Richard Mille masterpiece on his wrist. The RM 27-05 is a celebration of what’s possible when precision engineering meets athletic excellence. And who knows, maybe this summer we'll see Nadal rise to new heights, just as Richard Mille continues to do with each new creation.
