SIHH 2011: Preview RM017 Ultra-flat Tourbillon

Just got the press release of the new Richard Mille ultra-flat tourbillon! I am very excited, because this tourbillon has a case of a mere 8.7mm total thickness. This RM017 associates the best of Swiss watch making tradition with innovative and novel solutions, both in the choice of materials and the overall design of the watch. The watch has a power reserve of 70 hours and the movement is made out of grade 2 titanium with a black PVD coating. The tourbillion cage has a ceramic endstone to improve wear and tear and it also features the function selector, which is based on a car’s gear box and displays the selected mode - winding, neutral or handsetting - by a needle situated at 4 o’clock. This stunning tourbillon watch is a numbered limited edition of 50 pieces and will be officially launched at the SIHH 2011 in January. The price is unknown. Here is a picture of the watch and some more specifications.

CALIBER RM 017: manual winding extra flat tourbillon movement with hours, minutes, power reserve indicator and function indicator.
Dimensions: length 49.80 mm x 38.00 mm x 8.70 mm.

FUNCTION INDICATOR
In a manner similar to a car's gearbox, the function indicator allows one to see the winding, neutral and hand setting positions as the crown is pulled out. Each position is indicated via a hand at 4 o’clock displaying the following functions: W (Winding) – N (Neutral) – H (Hands).


DIAL
In sapphire (thickness: 0.30 mm) with anti-glare treatment (both sides), protected by 8 silicon braces inserted in the upper and lower grooves.

CRYSTAL
Bezel side: In sapphire (1800 Vickers) with anti-glare treatment (both sides)
Thickness: 1.15 mm
Case back: In sapphire with anti-glare treatment (both sides)
Thickness: at the center 1.05 mm and outer edges 1.39 mm

OTHER FEATURES
- Movement dimensions: 31.20 x 29.45 mm
- Thickness: 4.65 mm
- Tourbillon diameter: 12.30 mm
- Balance wheel diameter: 10 mm
- Number of jewels: 23
- Balance: GLUCYDUR, 2 arms, 4 setting screws, inertia moment 10 mg.cm2, angle of lift 53º
- Frequency: 21,600 vph (3 Hz)
- Balance spring: ELINVAR by NIVAROX
- Torque indicator with reference measurement in dNmm
- Shock protection: KIF ELASTOR KE 160 B28
- Stone setting in 2N gold
- Barrel shaft in nickel-free chronifer (DIN x 46 Cr 13 + S) with the following characteristics: stainless- antimagnetic- suitable for tempering

Written by: Tobias. S
Source: Richard Mille, 2010