Description

The present watch is the Richard Mille RM 004 V2 Split-Seconds Chronograph in rose gold, a landmark creation that exemplifies the brand’s uncompromising approach to high-performance watchmaking. Designed with a focus on precision, durability, and mechanical transparency, the RM 004 stands as one of the earliest expressions of Richard Mille’s philosophy—reimagining traditional complications through cutting-edge engineering and materials.

The tonneau-shaped case, measuring 39 mm in width and 48 mm in length, is crafted in rose gold, offering a striking contrast between classical precious metal and the highly technical nature of the watch. Secured by spline screws and fitted with a sapphire caseback, the construction ensures both structural rigidity and full visibility of the intricate mechanics within.

At the heart of the watch lies the manual-winding Calibre RM 004 V2, a sophisticated movement comprising 31 jewels and engineered to deliver exceptional chronometric performance. Its defining feature is the split-seconds (rattrapante) chronograph, one of the most complex complications in watchmaking, allowing the measurement of intermediate times with remarkable precision. Richard Mille addresses one of the traditional drawbacks of chronographs—the initial “jump” of the seconds hand—through an advanced mechanism that virtually eliminates this phenomenon, ensuring smooth and accurate engagement.

The semi-skeletonised dial, crafted from carbon nanofiber, reveals the technical depth of the movement while maintaining legibility through the use of luminous accents. Integrated within the display is a torque indicator, a unique feature that informs the wearer of the optimal tension within the mainspring, helping to maintain performance while reducing mechanical wear. Additionally, the function indicator, marked by the “W-H-N” display, allows the wearer to easily identify whether the crown is set to winding, hand-setting, or neutral—an intuitive system inspired by automotive gearboxes.

Every element of the RM 004 reflects Richard Mille’s pursuit of mechanical efficiency and innovation. By combining advanced materials, architectural movement design, and practical performance indicators, the watch transcends the traditional chronograph, becoming a true instrument of precision.

The RM 004 V2 in rose gold is both technically formidable and visually compelling—a statement piece that captures the essence of modern haute horlogerie, where engineering and aesthetics converge at the highest level.

 Richard Mille – bio

Richard Mille (born 13 February 1951, in France) started work at Finhor, a local watchmaking company in 1974. The company was bought by Matra in 1981 and Richard Mille rose to manage Matra’s watchmaking business, which then included the brands Yema and Cupillard Rième. Matra’s watchmaking activities were sold to Seiko, who Mille left in 1992 to start a watchmaking business for jewellery firm Mauboussin. In 1999 he founded the company Richard Mille SA in collaboration with Audemars Piguet. Its first product, the RM001 went on sale in 2001