The precious metal case, available in rose gold or white gold, is meticulously finished with alternating polished and satin-brushed surfaces. In this diamond-set edition, the bezel and case sides are fully pavé-set with brilliant-cut diamonds. Each stone is individually selected and custom-cut to follow the complex curves of the tonneau case, demonstrating Richard Mille’s mastery of high jewelry techniques integrated into watchmaking.
The proportions of the Richard Mille RM 17-01 Manual Winding Tourbillon Skeleton remain impressively slim for a tourbillon watch, measuring 48.15 mm by 40.1 mm with a thickness of just 13.08 mm. This slender profile allows the watch to sit comfortably on the wrist while maintaining a strong visual presence.
The dial of the Richard Mille RM 17-01 Manual Winding Tourbillon Skeleton is crafted from an ultra-thin sapphire crystal measuring only 0.3 mm in thickness. Printed white numeral hour markers appear to float above the movement, enhancing legibility without obstructing the view of the skeletonized mechanism beneath. At 1 o’clock, a fan-shaped power reserve indicator provides a clear visual reference, while the crown function indicator at 4 o’clock displays winding, neutral, and time-setting positions.
The fully skeletonized construction reveals the intricate finishing of the movement, including beveled edges, brushed surfaces, polished accents, and layered structural components. The visual depth achieved through this openworked design gives the watch a strong three-dimensional character. At 6 o’clock, the one-minute tourbillon takes center stage, its skeletonized bridges creating the illusion that the regulating organ is suspended above the dial as it rotates.
Powering the watch is the RM 17-01 manual winding movement, developed to combine high chronometric performance with exceptional shock resistance. The baseplate and bridges are made from Grade 5 titanium, a material prized for its strength, lightness, and corrosion resistance. The movement operates at 21,600 vibrations per hour and delivers an impressive 70-hour power reserve. A free-sprung balance enhances stability, while the rapidly rotating barrel with a delta-shaped curve optimizes torque delivery throughout the power reserve.
The Richard Mille RM 17-01 Manual Winding Tourbillon Skeleton is paired with a black rubber strap, offering a modern contrast to the refined case and gemstone setting. Despite its jewelry-like appearance, the watch remains water-resistant to 50 meters, reflecting Richard Mille’s commitment to functional robustness. Official retail pricing has not been publicly disclosed. Additional brand and technical information can be found on the official Richard Mille website.
Specifications:
Case: Rose gold or white gold, diamond-set, 48.15 mm x 40.1 mm x 13.08 mm,
Bezel: Diamond-set,
Crystal: Sapphire,
Dial: Sapphire skeletonized dial with printed numerals,
Movement: RM 17-01 manual winding, 23 jewels,
Frequency: 21,600 vph,
Power reserve: 70 hours,
Strap: Black rubber,
Water resistance: 50 meters,
Complications: Tourbillon.
