In the world of luxury watches, where engineering meets artistry, Richard Mille has once again pushed the boundaries with the RM 43-01 Tourbillon Split-Seconds Chronograph Ferrari. This isn’t just a watch; it’s a statement, a fusion of high-performance automotive design and cutting-edge horology. Following the ultra-thin UP-01, the 43-01 takes a maximalist approach, packing in complications and design elements that scream Ferrari.
The RM 43-01 is available in two versions: one with a titanium and Carbon TPT mid-case, and another in full Carbon TPT. Each version is limited to 75 pieces, making this a rare gem for collectors. The watch measures 42.9mm wide, 17.1mm thick, and 51.2mm lug to lug, with a water resistance of 50 meters. It’s not small, but then again, neither is Ferrari’s SF90 Stradale.
At its heart lies the manually wound RM43-01 movement, a 3 Hz caliber that offers timekeeping, a tourbillon, a split-seconds chronograph, a power reserve display, and a torque indication. The dial—if you can call it that—is a labyrinth of functions, with running seconds atop the tourbillon, a chronograph minutes display, and a power reserve indicator. The center features traditional hour and minute hands, flanked by the split-second chronograph hands.
This watch isn’t just inspired by Ferrari; it’s infused with its DNA. The markers mimic the shape of the car’s air intakes, and a small Ferrari logo plate sits in the lower left corner, shaped like the endplate on a Ferrari wing. The chronograph system, including the split-seconds function, is a marvel of engineering, using dual column wheels to manage its complex operations. The gold finish on the split-second brake adds a touch of elegance while ensuring functionality under extreme conditions.
Let’s address the elephant in the room: the price. The titanium version starts at $1.3 million, while the Carbon TPT model climbs to $1.535 million. Yes, you read that right. But when you consider that the Ferrari SF90 starts at over $500,000 and the F80 can hit $4 million, the RM 43-01’s price feels almost justified—almost. This is a watch for those who view timepieces as investments, as art, and as extensions of their passion for engineering and design.
The RM 43-01 isn’t just a watch; it’s a celebration of what happens when two giants of their respective fields—Richard Mille and Ferrari—come together. It’s big, bold, and unapologetically complex. For those who can afford it, it’s a piece of history, a wearable testament to the relentless pursuit of perfection. For the rest of us, it’s a reminder that sometimes, the most extraordinary creations are born from the fusion of art and technology.
