Richard Mille continues in their quest to seek innovative technical avenues to redefine watchmaking art. The RM 30-01 Automatic with Declutchable Rotor represents a blend of the RM 029 and the RM 030, two models leaving the collection. This new watch inherits the most exceptional qualities from both predecessors, creating its own timepiece.
Before we dive into the intricate technical aspects of this timepiece, it is important to understand the concept of a declutchable variable-geometry rotor. Typically, an automatic wristwatch works with a small rotor that rotates as you move, transferring energy to the winding barrel. The winding barrel reaches its ideal tension when fully wound. It is crucial to note that excessive tension from overwinding can occur and should be avoided.
This issue is usually addressed through a sliding flange mechanism that allows the mainspring to slip, preventing the movement from being overwound. While the traditional system serves its purpose, it can accumulate harmful debris inside the timepiece over time. This can pose a problem for active individuals who wear their watches frequently. The continuous friction between the flange and the winding barrel’s interior can, over time, impact the watch’s accuracy.
Fortunately, Richard Mille’s declutchable rotor disengages when the mainspring is fully wound. This mechanism is intricately linked to the power-reserve indicator, ensuring precise winding control. This synchronisation enables the movement and oscillator to maintain a consistent torque-to-power ratio, ultimately delivering optimal chronometric performance.
Every element — from the declutchable variable-geometry rotor and function selector to the power-reserve indicator — plays a role in crafting an exceptional piece. In this new model, the meticulous finishing highlights the watchmakers’ commitment to perfect craftsmanship and their pursuit of technical excellence. Precision and performance are their defining hallmarks, prominently showcased on the dial, allowing real-time appreciation.
A skilled team meticulously crafted the RM 30-01 Automatic with a Declutchable Rotor. This timepiece embodies Richard Mille’s core values, where mechanical complexity aligns with reliability to improve usability. Present in this iteration is the iconic contoured tonneau-shaped case that has evolved over the years, always with finesse and purpose.
These dimensions provide a fertile canvas for utilising advanced technical materials and housing movements that consistently push the boundaries of technical expertise. The graceful curves of RM 30-01’s movement extend seamlessly into a harmonious perspective, inviting the line to flow effortlessly without disrupting the field of vision.
Powering the timepiece is the RMAR2 calibre, which incorporates a dual-barrel system, enhancing stability in torque delivery. The adaptable variable-geometry rotor efficiently generates power when necessary, and the variable-inertia balance ensures superior shock resistance and long-term precision. Eliminating the regulator index enables a more precise and consistently repeatable calibration of inertia, achieved by including four small adjustable weights directly on the balance.
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Exploration and innovation have always been in the DNA of the Richard Mille universe and this watch proves it. The goal is set toward a distant limitless horological destination, far from the well-trodden paths of convention. For the brand, diverging from the norm is not about seeking shortcuts; it is a journey that enriches experiences and delves into the boundless realms of imagination, ultimately leading to a reconnection with the fundamentals.
Successive timepieces stand as a testament to its success, with Richard Mille’s narrative built on deliberate choices. Just like its predecessors, the RM 30-01 Automatic with Declutchable Rotor draws upon the artistic and technical innovations forged, piece by piece. Future models will continue to inherit creative possibilities inspired by the legacy of this remarkable timepiece.
The finer details
Movement
RMAR2 calibre: self-winding skeletonised movement with hours, minutes, power-reserve and clutch engagement indicators Power reserve: Circa 55 hours (±10 %).
The power-reserve indicator is located in the upper-left corner of the dial.
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Movement dimensions: 31.25mm x 29.45mm
Thickness: 5,41mm
Number of jewels: 38
Balance: Glucydur, four arms, moment of inertia 4.8 mg.cm2, angle of lift 53°
Frequency: 28,800 VPH (4Hz)
• Baseplate and bridges in grade 5 titanium
• Oversized date
• Function selector
• Variable-inertia balance
• Declutchable variable-geometry rotor
• Double-barrel system
• Spline screws in grade 5 titanium for the bridges and case
Case
Case dimensions: 42mm x 49.94mm x 17.59mm
Two variations: a case entirely made of grade 5 titanium or a case in red gold with a titanium caseband
• Flange in carbon fibre and DLC-treated titanium with markers filled with an approved luminescent material
• Sapphire crystals (1,800 Vickers) with an anti-reflective coating (both sides)
