Simply Abu Dhabi Magazine XIX

1 1 5 S I M P LY A B U DH A B I B razilian Formula 1 driver Felipe Massa was the first sporting figure to join the Richard Mille family. It was his invaluable input that allowed the brand to successfully manufacture a carbon nanofibre baseplate. To mark Massa’s 10th year test-driving Richard Mille timepieces, the brand has dedicated a special collection of RM 056 and RM 011 timepieces to Massa, appropriately named ‘10th Anniversary’. Coincidentally, the release of these stunning new watches comes on the heels of Massa securing 40 podium finishes during his career and works to emphasise his importance both in the world of elite racing and also for the brand. Renowned by experts for its uncompromising technicality, at the very core of the RM056 tourbillon calibre is a synthesis of the brand’s most exciting innovations. Comprised of more than 500 individual components, the grade 5 titanium RMCC1 calibre plays host to one of horology’s most exquisite complications: a split-seconds chronograph. This tourbillon movement also boasts indicators for the power reserve and torque as well as a function selector. As meticulous in their craft as Felipe Massa in his own racing sphere, the engineers at Richard Mille have optimised the movement, fine-tuning its timekeeping precision and improving the operation of its split seconds by reducing friction and ensuring the long-term reliability of the calibre. Just as in Formula 1, timing is everything in horology. These mechanics of the piece are presented to perfection by their case, produced using sapphire cut from a single block, in a process that required several years of research and testing in order to meet the highest standards of comfort and resistance. Often imitated but never equalled, this tour de force of style and engineering represented a considerable challenge. Machining sapphire is an exceedingly complex procedure, requiring no less than 1000 hours of work for each case, including 430 hours of filing and 350 hours of polishing for the bezel, case middle and caseback ensemble. You’ll agree the result is worth every ounce of energy that went into creating it. The RM 011, the second timepiece in the ‘10th Anniversary’ collection, is an emblematic model by RichardMille, named for Felipe Massa from its very conception. The so-called RMAC1, an automatic winding movement, heralds the brand’s first flyback chronograph. Crafted entirely in grade 5 titanium and hand -finished, the calibre features an annual calendar, a 60-minute flyback chronograph and a countdown function, assembled for this anniversary edition inside an NTPT carbon case, a material as stunning as it is unique to the Richard Mille brand, offering remarkable resistance and a unique appearance unmatched by any other watchmaker.