In tribute to Asia, Richard Mille introduced the RM 022 Aerodyne Dual Time Zone Tourbillon in NTPT Carbon, at Watches & Wonders earlier this month in Hong Kong. Since the watchmaker’s beginnings in 2001, Richard Mille has been inspird by outer-space and supersonic speed, which the new RM 022 continues to communicate. Being the first timepiece to combine a dual time zone with an external structure in titanium combined with orthorhombic titanium aluminides and carbon nanofibres, the RM 022 is surely unique.
The use of these materials is seen on a base plate on the dial, in a honeycombed geometrical pattern, which was originally the subject of research by NASA for application as a core material on supersonic aircraft wings.
At first glance, the RM 022 Aerodyne Dual Time Zone Tourbillon is unabashedly technical, with an innovative design and the latest technology imbuing exclusivity and tradition, synonymous with horology in the 21st Century. An in-depth look exposes the dual time zone indicator with hours on a transparent sapphire crystal disc, which can be seen when suspended above the light colored field located near 3 o’clock.
Not only does it look fantastic on the wrist – it rivals the new Evil Eye RM 26-02 Tourbillon in that respect – the dual time zone is simple to adjust via a pusher located at 9 o’clock. Aesthetically, it remains faithful to the Richard Mille brand.
As found in a car’s gearbox, a push-button situated in the middle of the crown gives a chance to choose the winding, neutral and hand setting functions, with an easy push. On the dial, one sees a hand at 4 o’clock which displays the selected function: W (Winding) – N (Neutral) – H (Hands).
It seems that Richard Mille’s quest for surprises in a never-ending one. The RM 022 Aerodyne Dual Time Zone Tourbillon is powered by the in-house Caliber RM022, a manual winding tourbillon movement with hours, minutes and dual time zone. The watch comes with 70 hours of power reserve, indicated on the power reserve barrel located between 11 and 12 o’clock.
The RM 022 Aerodyne dual Time Zone Tourbillon Asia edition will be produced in a limited edition of 8 timepieces and only available in Richard Mille boutiques in Shanghai, Hong Kong, Macau, Seoul, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur and Jakarta.
