This year’s Salon International de la Haute Horlogerie (SIHH) is just getting started in Geneva but already some of the most decadently luxurious timepieces of 2015 have been unveiled to the crowd of press and aficionados of fine watches. Here are two dazzling new models from one of the world’s top watchmakers, Richard Mille. Both of these stunning timepieces combine eye-popping beauty with impeccable craftsmanship.
Richard Mille RM19-02 Tourbillon Fleur
Richard Mille has boldly stated that he’s all about the luxury and his latest creations prove it. The RM19-02 Tourbillon Fleur reeks of glamour and femininity, concealing its technical expertise beneath a magnolia blossom set with sparkling gemstones.
In the lower left corner of this eye-catching beauty you’ll find the gravity-defying flying tourbillon escapement surrounded by five delicate hand crafted magnolia petals. Those perfect petals are attractive enough to stand on their looks alone, but with just a press of the button located at the 9 o’clock mark the petals open to reveal their secret—the tourbillon escapement. When the petals are fully open, the jeweled stamen of the magnolia moves upward like the stamen of a real flower.
On the underside of the petals you’ll find the grade-5 titanium tourbillon caliber and its five levers. A separate system powered by a second winding barrel controls the pinion that elevates the flying tourbillon and stamen.
This exquisitely beautiful and intricate watch will be made in a very limited edition of just 30 pieces. If the RM19-02 sounds like the ideal gift for that discriminating lady in your life, be prepared for a very fancy price tag.
Richard Mille RM51-02 Tourbillon Diamond Twister
Equally dazzling and bejeweled is the RM51-02 Tourbillon Diamond Twister which sets a whirling galaxy of diamonds against a base plate of black onyx. Reflecting this year’s fascination with astronomy and the mysteries of the Milky Way, a spray of 14 rays composed of diamonds shoot out from the tourbillon escapement at the 6 o’clock position for a dynamic display of the watchmaker’s art.
Diamonds abound, as each of these rays is set with a single row of the precious stones and more adorn the case, which is also accented by black sapphires. As if this watch needed more shimmer and sparkle, three more rows of diamonds are set into the crown. The 18K white gold dial is set with a total of 270 precious stones.
On the inside, the RM51-02 has a free sprung balance and skeletonized bridges, another hot trend in watchmaking this year. A torque limiting crown protects the watch from over winding.
For the lady who’s not shy about admitting her love for diamonds, this watch would be the ultimate gift, one that she will treasure for years to come. Like the Richard Mille RM19-02 Tourbillon Fleur, the RM51-02 Tourbillon Diamond Twister will be available in a limited edition of only 30 pieces. Prices for both watches are upon request.
