by Vanessa Schmitz-Grucker
Richard Mille. Men's watch in titanium and red leather, "RM053 DLC" model, 2020, unique piece, weight: 84.2 g/2.97 oz. Estimate: €1/2 M
When Richard Mille set out to create a tourbillon regulator watch specifically for polo, it was a considerable challenge. This is a highly physical sport involving unpredictable and violent clashes. Timepieces are put to the test by numerous sharp turns and collisions between horses. So this model features an armored case with double bossing in titanium carbide and two reading windows inclined at 30°—the ideal viewing angle for a rider. Richard Mille innovated further with an extremely compact tourbillon movement, especially as regards the geartrain and barrel. This light, unified system is thus less subject to the centrifugal forces generated during matches. Its materials were rigorously tested to optimize their resistance potential, and the watch can withstand impacts of up to five kg (11 lbs). Click here to read more