RICHARD MILLE RM 17-02 Manual Winding Tourbillon Watch

The Richard Mille RM 17-02 Titanium Manual Winding Tourbillon represents a new chapter in the brand’s exploration of advanced materials and architectural watchmaking. As the first RM 17 model crafted entirely in titanium, this release highlights Richard Mille’s long-standing expertise in combining lightweight construction with extreme mechanical sophistication.

The tonneau-shaped case of the Richard Mille RM 17-02 Titanium Manual Winding Tourbillon measures 48.15 mm by 40.1 mm with a thickness of 13.08 mm. Both the bezel and middle case are manufactured from Grade 5 titanium, a material prized for its high strength-to-weight ratio and corrosion resistance. The case construction is secured by twelve titanium spline screws, a signature element of Richard Mille design that ensures structural rigidity while reinforcing the watch’s technical aesthetic. The torque-limiting crown system further protects the movement by preventing accidental overwinding.

Visually, the titanium case provides a neutral and industrial backdrop that enhances the vivid colors of the skeletonized movement. Compared with precious metal versions, the RM 17-02 Titanium offers a lighter and more contemporary wearing experience without compromising presence on the wrist.

The openworked dial of the Richard Mille RM 17-02 Titanium Manual Winding Tourbillon is a showcase of color, depth, and technical detail. Yellow hour markers contrast with blue movement bridges, gold-toned gear trains, black chapter rings, and ruby bearings. Arabic numerals are printed on both sides of the sapphire crystal dial, creating a subtle three-dimensional effect that enhances legibility while preserving the transparency of the design.

Functional indications are clearly integrated into the layout. The power reserve indicator at 2 o’clock and the crown function indicator at 3 o’clock are set against grey backgrounds that echo the tone of the titanium case, ensuring visual coherence and improved readability.

At the heart of the watch is the RM 17-02 manual winding movement, engineered with a focus on both performance and aesthetics. The movement operates at a frequency of 21,600 vibrations per hour and delivers a substantial 70-hour power reserve. Its baseplate and bridges are crafted from Grade 5 titanium and finished entirely by hand, featuring chamfering, polishing, satin brushing, sandblasting, and rhodium plating.

The tourbillon, positioned prominently on the dial, serves as both a technical regulating organ and a visual focal point. The skeletonized architecture allows unobstructed views of the rotating cage and gear train, emphasizing the mechanical animation that defines the Richard Mille identity.

The Richard Mille RM 17-02 Titanium Manual Winding Tourbillon is fitted with a black fabric strap that reinforces its modern, lightweight character. Despite its skeletonized construction and complex movement, the watch remains water-resistant to 50 meters, underscoring its functional robustness. Official retail pricing has not yet been announced. Additional technical background and brand information can be found on the official Richard Mille website.

Specifications:

Case: Grade 5 titanium, 48.15 mm x 40.1 mm x 13.08 mm,
Crystal: Sapphire,
Dial: Skeletonized sapphire with Arabic numerals,
Movement: RM 17-02 manual winding, 23 jewels,
Frequency: 21,600 vph,
Power reserve: 70 hours,
Strap: Black fabric,
Water resistance: 50 meters,
Complications: Tourbillon.