Simply Abu Dhabi XXVI

T he incomparable Richard Mille brand is renowned for many things – extreme technique, pushing the boundaries of what is possible in watchmaking, utilising technologies and innovative methods from other industries and applying them to its unique timepieces… but gemsetting? This is new ground for RichardMille, but in redoubtable fashion, they have nailed it. The new adventure with setting gems into NTPT carbon is exemplified by two newmodels for women: the RM 07-01 and RM 037. NTPT carbon has been a core material in the men’s collection, so it’s great to see the extreme qualities expanded into the women’s range of timepieces. The RM 07-01 model is priced at approximately $110,000 and is housed in Richard Mille signature tonneau case. The ultra- lightweight NTPT carbon is exceptionally hard and resistant; since ordinary machinery and tooling simply aren’t up to the job, custom machinery and diamond tooling is required. The main challenge arises when it comes to the gemsetting. Gold can be worked directly with tools to create the prongs that hold the diamonds, but the hardness and resistance of NTPT carbon requires the aforementioned machinery – special CNC machines for milling equipped with diamond tools for the mitraillage involved in a pavé setting. As well as dazzling on the outside, both the RM 07-01 and RM 037 boast incredible elements in the movements too. There is a free spring balance with variable inertia which guarantees increased reliability if ever the watch is subjected to shock – not that you want to be bashing a hundred-thousand-dollar watch – but should the unexpected happen, it will remain safely intact. The rotor also has variable inertia incorporated into the calibre – the CRMA2 – allowing it to be set according to the wearer’s activity levels. This can be selected and then fixed in place by adjusting two weights with the distinctive Richard Mille Spline screws. Alongside the adjustable rotor geometry, the CRMA2 calibre is a beautiful skeletonised automatic movement. It is a stunning piece that exemplifies RichardMille’s passion, ability and dedication to explore and excel. 1 8 1 S I M P LY A B U DH A B I