Richard Millle partners with Ferrari to create the ultimate split-second tourbillon, the RM 43-01

Swiss luxury watchmaker Richard Mille first collaborated with renowned Italian marque Ferrari in 2021, unveiling the RM UP-01 Ultraflat Ferrari—a timepiece that, at just 1.75mm thick, stunned the watch world with its razor-thin profile. When it was officially launched in 2022, the watch sparked controversy over its unconventional design, yet it nonetheless demonstrated Richard Mille’s horological prowess. It also edged out Bulgari’s Octo Finissimo Ultra, which debuted the same year, to claim the title of the world’s thinnest mechanical watch.

This year, Richard Mille and Ferrari have teamed up once more to create the RM 43-01 Tourbillon Split-Seconds Chronograph Ferrari—a million-dollar watch limited to just 150 pieces.

Unlike its predecessor, the UP-01, the RM 43-01 features the signature Richard Mille tonneau style case—a rounded, barrel-like shape that curves to the shape of the wrist.

It comes in two iterations, each limited to just 75 pieces, underscoring the exclusivity of the model. For the more traditional collector, the first version features a polished grade 5 titanium case—prized for its strength-to-weight ratio and resistance to corrosion—paired with striking red accents visible throughout the dial and movement. The metallic sheen of the titanium contrasts beautifully with the vibrant red detailing, offering a refined yet sporty aesthetic.

Meanwhile, the second version pushes the envelope with a case made from Carbon TPT, a lightweight and resilient thin-ply composite developed exclusively for Richard Mille. Recognisable by its distinctive layered surface pattern, Carbon TPT is not only exceptionally durable and scratch-resistant, but also contributes to the watch’s ultra-light feel on the wrist. Yellow accents on the dial and movement provide a bold contrast to the dark carbon case, echoing Ferrari’s racing livery and reinforcing the automotive connection.

What truly sets the RM 43-01 apart is its intricate engineering and highly complex movement. Inside a titanium carriage is a 60-second tourbillon, prominently positioned at 9 o’clock (an unusual design choice). It houses a free-sprung balance beating at 3 Hz, offering greater precision and stability over time. Adding to the technical appeal, the tourbillon cage is constructed with five arms, each indexed in 12-second intervals, subtly marking the passage of time in a dynamic and visually captivating way.

The movement itself is suspended by a system of 12 tiny cables, a complex architectural feat that ensures shock resistance while giving the illusion that the calibre is floating mid-air. This cable-suspension mechanism, combined with a manual winding tourbillon calibre and skeletonised dial, makes the RM 43-01 not just a design piece but a showcase of mechanical virtuosity.

Another impressive feat within the RM 43-01 is the rattrapante feature—a split-second chronograph, which allows the wearer to time two events simultaneously. This mechanism is the Maison’s latest generation of the split-seconds chronograph, developed in collaboration with Audemars Piguet Le Locle.

The watch, which was three years in the making, features plenty of elements that pay tribute to its partnership with Ferrari: One standout feature is a fin design at the back of the watch, modelled after the tail end of the Ferrari 499P race car. It is also complete with the brand’s famous ‘Cavallino Rampante’ prancing horse logo.

The titanium version of the RM 43-01 Tourbillon Split-Seconds Chronograph Ferrari is $1,300,000, while the Carbon TPT version comes in at $1,535,000.

Go further with the Richard Mille RM 43-01 Tourbillon Split-Seconds Chronograph Ferrari.

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