New Release
SJX reports live from Singapore, detailing Richard Mille's presentation of his 2009 collection. The article captures Richard Mille's enduring philosophy on innovation and contrarian design, offering insights into his perspective on the luxury watch market and the brand's creative direction.
A couple of days ago, Richard Mille came to Singapore to present his 2009 collection at the latest uber-luxury hotel in Singapore, the Capella Resort on Sentosa. He invited Dr Bernard Cheong to be on stage with him during the presentation. Bernard asked several interesting questions, most notably if the prices of watches will continue to rise. Richard indicated he believes they will because the cost of components and labour will continue to rise. He did not say if prices of watches will rise at a higher rate the the rise in cost of parts.
Richard also spoke about certain themes which he always touches on. They included his passion, innovation and being a contrarian. He gave the examples of the RM009 ultra-light tourbillon ('people think expensive watches must be heavy... that is perceived value, not real value') and the RM020 pocket watch to prove that being different can be incredibly successful, and lucrative also though he left that unsaid.
A moment of humour came when Bernard asked what was his biggest regret in life so far. The response: "Not learning Italian!" Throughout the event, Richard was Richard, a bon vivant who is always engaging.
Photos of the new collection are contained in my follow-up posts to this one.
- SJX
This message has been edited by SJX on 2009-05-09 03:41:37The Richard Mille RM009 represents the brand's approach to the tourbillon complication within a 39mm case format. This reference was produced from 2005 to 2012, establishing its position as part of Richard Mille's numbered series lineup during the brand's formative years.
The RM009 features a 39mm titanium case fitted with sapphire crystal and offers 50 meters of water resistance. The manual-winding RM009 caliber provides a 70-hour power reserve, displayed through a skeletonized dial construction. The watch is completed with a rubber strap.
This reference appeals to collectors seeking Richard Mille's interpretation of the tourbillon complication in a titanium construction. The seven-year production run and specific caliber designation make the RM009 a defined entry point into the brand's tourbillon offerings from this period. The skeletonized dial allows visibility of the movement architecture beneath.
This one is easily the star of the show, the RM019 Celtic Knot Ladies Tourbillon. When I first saw pictures of this I thought it was another lame attempt to create a high-priced ladies watch but in the metal, this is one of the best looking ladies watches unveiled this year. That is particularly notable since this is a year with several amazing ladies high complications, for example the Chalcedony tourbillon from AP at SIHH. The diamond-set Celtic Knot weaves its way through the dial side of the
of the piece is from the RM006. Built up from the carbon fibre base plate. I loved the way the diamond celtic knot forms an eternal loop - much like the idea of tourbillon escapement - the balance spring in perpetual motion against the cage. Thanks Andrew H
says RM002 PG . Hmm a reflection of the Co's QC standard ???
Apologies for not stating so in my post. - SJX
A manual wind tourbillon pocket watch; a brilliant idea with deftly sculpted case and muscular chain. One independent watchmaker cited this watch earlier this year as an example of RM's brilliance and contrarian instincts. Isn't the pocket watch dead? But at about EUR200,000 and a whopping 62 x 52 mm in size, one would need deep pockets in both senses to accomodate this. Personally I'd prefer this as a small desk clock rather than in my pocket. - SJX This message has been edited by SJX on 2009-0
worn either as a pocket watch or as desk clock. Jeans, blazer, and this with chain in the pocket would look so cool one would imagine. However, the price simply does not help me either! Thanks for some great photos of the watch. Andrew H
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