SimplyAbuDhabi XXXIII

1 1 0 S I M P LY A B U DH A B I O ne of the most talked about new lines of the SIHH 2019 was the kaleidoscopic trip down memory lane that is the Richard Mille Bonbon Collection. For a brand that has built a solid reputation on high technique, trailblazing innovation, ultimate precision— “Racing machines for the Wrist” as the tagline goes— this is an unexpected and unashamedly exuberant sidestep. The collection features 10 models divided into two lines: Fruits and Sweets, each produced in an edition of 30 pieces. This will be the last collection revealed at SIHH as the brand will not join the event in future. A company statement announced, “The Richard Mille brand has developed considerably its international distribution network over the last few years, notably by opening a growing number of dedicated mono- brand boutiques. In turn, it has drastically reduced its representation through multi- brand retailers in order to qualitatively satisfy a constant increase in demand. Consequently, the brand’s presence at exhibitions no longer corresponds to its strategy for exclusive and selective distribution. It is with deep regret therefore that we are announcing our withdrawal from the Salon International de la Haute Horlogerie (SIHH) following the 2019 edition.” The final SIHH showing bears the same uncompromising commitment to technology and performance in materials and mechanics, which is the foundation of the brand—it’s simply been combined with a light-hearted spirit and playful twist. Cécile Guenat, the Artistic Director for the collection, says, “Bonbon—just saying the word is enough to make you smile. It manages to convey a combination of pleasure, good cheer and sharing all at once.” Reflecting on the inspiration and impetus for the unusual change in direction, Guenat adds, “For me it was truly an opportunity to let loose and have fun revisiting childhood. Nonetheless, it was an ambitiously daring project entailing 18 months of development, and entirely faithful to the spirit of Richard Mille, a serious brand that’s not afraid to break with tradition.” With the RM 16-01 Automatic Fraise and the RM 16-01 Automatic Citron, breaking with tradition has another element in that, unlike other watches in the collection with the Richard Mille signature tonneau shape, these watches have a rectangular case. All the watches in the Bonbon collection are actually based on three iconic Richard Mille models— the RM 07-03, RM 16-01 and RM 37-01. The RM 16-01 marked the first appearance of RICHARD MILLE RM 1 6 - 0 1 AUTOMA T I C F R A I S E AND RM 1 6 - 0 1 C I T RON