Skeletonised automatic-winding movement with hours, minutes and off-centre monoblock platinum rotor.
The manufacturing of these components in grade 5 titanium with Titalyt® treatment for the baseplate and black PVD coating for the bridges endows the entire ultra-thin assembly with great rigidity and the precise surface flatness essential for perfect functioning of the gear train as well as stability of the movement.
The skeletonised baseplate and bridges were subjected to separate and extensive validation tests to ensure they met rigorous strength requirements.
MONOBLOCK MICRO ROTOR
Following on from the variable-geometry rotor that contributed to the success of Richard Mille’s automatic calibres, a new winding device is introduced in the RM 033. One of the defining features of the automatic extra-flat calibre lies in the placement of the RMXP1 calibre’s automatic micro rotor to one side of the movement, rather than the centre, saving precious millimetres in total height. As a result, this movement has a diameter of 33.00 mm while its thickness is only 2.60 mm.
To ensure the decentralised rotor’s optimal winding efficiency, it has been designed to wind unidirectionally and manufactured from solid platinum, thus providing it with an optimal weight to volume ratio.
MOVEMENT CHARACTERISTICS
Movement diameter: 33.00 mm
Thickness: 2.60 mm
Number of jewels: 29
Barrel arbour: AP 20 steel
Balance: Glucydur®, 4 arms, moment of inertia 5.75 mg•cm2, angle of lift 53°
Frequency: 21,600 vph (3 Hz)
Balance spring: Nivaflex®
Shock protection: INCABLOC 908.22.211.100 (transparent)
Escapement wheel jewels: Rubifix (transparent)
Two-position stem: Manual winding, hand setting
CASE
The case retains the same characteristic attention to detail found in all Richard Mille creations, with a vast number of stamping and machining operations required for this round case, which reaches a total thickness of merely 6.30 mm.
The design and execution of the watch demonstrate a holistic approach to conception of the movement, case and dial. For example, a casing ring is no longer used and the movement is mounted on chassis mounting rubbers (ISO SW), affixed by grade 5 titanium screws.
The tripartite case is assembled with 16 spline screws in grade 5 titanium and abrasion-resistant washers in 316L stainless steel, further complemented by integration of the lugs into the case’s torque screw system. The tripartite case is water resistant to 30 metres, ensured by 2 Nitrile O-ring seals.
SPLINE SCREWS IN GRADE 5 TITANIUM FOR THE BRIDGES AND CASE
This permits better control of the torque applied to screws during assembly. These screws are therefore unaffected by physical manipulation during assembly or disassembly and age well.