The Richard Mille RM-UP-01 Ferrari, The Thinnest Watch of the World

Stepping into the realm of horology, the names Richard Mille and Ferrari resonate as pillars of distinction. Renowned for their unwavering commitment to excellence, precision, innovation, and an unrelenting quest for perfection, both brands embarked on a transformative journey in 2021, forging a long-term partnership that bore witness to the creation of something truly extraordinary – the RM-UP-01 Ferrari, a timepiece that has etched its name into history as the world’s thinnest watch.

A Triumph of Technical Prowess

Measuring a mere 1.75 millimeters in thickness, the RM-UP-01 Ferrari is a testament to the technical prowess and innovation that define both Richard Mille and Ferrari. This ultra-flat timepiece challenges the traditional notions of watch mechanics, where technicity takes center stage, dictating aesthetics in a whole new way.

The collaboration between Richard Mille and Ferrari extends beyond just the name on the dial. It is reflected in the choice of materials, execution, and the competitive spirit that drives both brands to push the boundaries of what’s possible in the world of horology.

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The Essence of Ferrari in a Watch

The RM UP-01 Ferrari is not just a watch; it’s an embodiment of Ferrari’s values. It seamlessly marries sporting mechanisms with elegance, creating a timepiece that is both recognizable and distinctive. Richard Mille and Ferrari have combined their expertise, understanding, and shared values to craft this unique masterpiece.

The journey to create the RM UP-01 Ferrari was not easy. It required years of work, dozens of prototypes, and over 6,000 hours of development and laboratory testing. But the result is a watch that meets the same validation requirements as all other Richard Mille models.

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The Ingenious Engineering Behind It

Creating an ultra-flat watch presented significant challenges. Unlike traditional movements with superimposed gears and hands, the RM UP-01 utilizes a unique approach. It establishes a perfect symbiosis between the movement and case, ensuring the necessary rigidity of both components.

To maintain shock resistance under all circumstances, a traditional architecture was retained, with the movement assembled within the case. This design choice speaks volumes about Richard Mille’s commitment to durability and precision.

Calibre RMUP-01: Where Innovation Meets Performance

The RM UP-01 is powered by an ultraflat manual winding movement that features hours, minutes, and a function selector. Its limited edition status, with only 150 pieces available, adds to its exclusivity.

With a power reserve of around 45 hours, the watch boasts exceptional functionality. The baseplate and bridges are crafted from grade 5 titanium, a biocompatible, corrosion-resistant alloy known for its rigidity. This material is commonly used in aerospace, aeronautics, and automotive industries, highlighting its reliability.

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Innovative Escapement and Balance Wheel

One of the groundbreaking innovations in the RM UP-01 is the patented ultraflat escapement with a variable-inertia balance wheel made of grade 5 titanium. This innovative design reduces the thickness of the watch while maintaining the security of a traditional Swiss anchor escapement.

Traditional escapements rely on parts like the dart and safety roller to bank the lever in case of shocks. The RM UP-01’s escapement eliminates these components, reducing the overall height. The movement transfers energy to the variable-inertia balance wheel, ensuring stability during assembly, disassembly, and exposure to shocks or vibrations.

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Fast-Rotating Barrel for Enhanced Performance

The RM UP-01 features a fast-rotating barrel that offers several advantages, including reduced mainspring adhesion, improved power reserve/performance ratio, and enhanced regularity.

With its impressive specifications, the movement demonstrates the highest level of craftsmanship:

Movement dimensions: 41.45 x 28.85 mm
Thickness: 1.18 mm
Jewels: 23
Frequency: 28,800 vph (4 Hz)

Fighting for Perfection

Creating the RM UP-01 Ferrari required setting aside conventional knowledge and standards. Collaborating with the laboratories of Audemars Piguet Le Locle, the teams at Richard Mille tirelessly worked to shave off those last hundredths of a millimeter. This demanding and lengthy process resulted in a watch that is just 1.75 millimeters thick.

A Case That Complements the Movement

The RM UP-01’s case is a marvel in itself. It perfectly complements the movement, showcasing a comprehensive conceptual approach. Crafted entirely from grade 5 titanium, the case offers exceptional lightness and resistance. Its monobloc construction optimizes rigidity while ensuring water resistance to 1 atm (10 m).

Meticulously finished with satin-finished caseback and bezel, polished bevels, and laser-engraved details, the RM UP-01’s case is a work of art in its own right.

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Conclusion

The RM-UP-01 Ferrari by Richard Mille and Ferrari is not just a watch; it’s a symbol of innovation, precision, and the relentless pursuit of perfection. In a world where luxury meets technical prowess, this ultra-flat timepiece stands out as a true marvel of engineering and design.

It’s a testament to what can be achieved when two iconic brands come together to redefine the boundaries of watchmaking. With its unmatched thinness and exceptional performance, the RM-UP-01 Ferrari is a watch that will undoubtedly make hearts beat faster for generations to come.