SimplyAbuDhabi X

1 0 3 S I M P LY A B U DH A B I RM26-01 R ichard Mille’s RM26-01 joins a trend of manufacturers releasingmodelswithspecific appeal for theChinese andAsianmarkets. The new model features a glistening panda surrounded by bamboo trees. Limited to 30 pieces in an 18 karat white or red gold gem-set case, this meticulously crafted timepiece features a manual winding tourbillonmovement with hours, minutes and power reserve. The panda traditionally lived in the mountainous regions and plains of mid-west and south-west China. Now a protected species, they can be found in the mountainous regions of the provinces of Sichuan, Shaanxi and Gansu in central China. The giant Panda is emblematic of China and is considered a national treasure by the Chinese people. It’s a very appealing animal and represents innocence and friendship. It’s also the universal symbol for peace. The white gold Panda at the heart of the RM26-01 is set with diamonds and black sapphires. The tourbillon movement is an integral part of the Panda which is happily situated in his bamboo forest of yellow gold, the leaves and stems of which are engraved and painted entirely by hand. Many long hours of delicate and finely detailed work have been applied in the creation of these exceptional pieces. In the world of horology, the case of RichardMille watches is widely considered to be the most difficult to manufacture. The tripartite tonneau-shaped case is fully curved, which enables the watch to be ergonomic and comfortable but is time-consuming during its production and requires a high level of quality control. The new RM26-01 tourbillon calibre is equipped with a baseplatemachined fromblackOnyx, which is said to absorb negative energy and bring great emotional stability to the wearer. BlackOnyx is thus considered to protect against negative thoughts and incarnate balance and inspiration. An artistic and imaginative feat, this symbiosis between fine watchmaking and fine jewellery will delight anyone with a fondness for pandas.