Text: Noor Amylia Hilda
The RM 43-01 Tourbillon Split-Seconds Chronograph Ferrari is inspired by the automotive and motorsports icon.
Following the release of Richard Mille’s ultra-thin UP-01 in 2022, the new RM 43-01 Tourbillon Split-Seconds marks the second Ferrari collaborative timepiece for the watchmaker, and this time, it’s jam-packed with high-performance features.
While the previous collaboration showcases the engineering feat of manufacturing an ultra-thin minimalist watch, the 43-01 features an impressive showcase of complex complications. Both Ferrari and Richard Mille are engineering powerhouses, each bringing a common unwavering pursuit for technical innovation and landmark design.
This technological prowess is showcased in the RM 43-01 calibre, an exceptionally lightweight yet durable movement that was engineered over a three-year development process. The movement rests on a highly skeletonised grade 5 titanium baseplate with a 70-hour power reserve.
Performance Timekeeping
Exceptionally lightweight and strong, the RM 43-01 calibre rests on a highly skeletonised grade 5 titanium baseplate.
What’s impressive is how two of watchmaking’s most complex complications are fused in the timepiece: the tourbillon and the split-seconds chronograph. Notably, the off-centre tourbillon escapement brings a distinctive kineticism, which is then enhanced with the active seconds display.
As you’d expect from a collaborative timepiece between Maranello and Les Breuleux, style and performance play a pivotal role in this creative exchange. The RM 43-01 is geared up as you’d expect from any Ferrari automobile, as the watch underwent rigorous shock testing, simulations, and deep research to ensure that it meets the watchmaker’s uncompromising standards.
Richard Mille is limiting the timepiece to 75 units in microblasted titanium and 75 in Carbon TPT.
The two versions of the timepiece showcase two distinct personalities. Each limited to 75 pieces, the microblasted polished grade 5 titanium version signifies a more refined “gentleman driver” elegance, while the Carbon TPT version brings a performance-driven attitude.
The Cavallino logo, whose shape is inspired by the rear wing of the 499, is beautifully laser-engraved on a titanium plate.
This is a timepiece that comes with a big dose of high performance, durability, and plenty of style—and when it comes to cutting-edge engineering, the RM 43-01 is truly a remarkable feat of modern watchmaking.
(Images: Richard Mille)
