The Richard Mille RM 70-01 Tourbillon Alain Prost is not just a watch; it's a statement. A testament to innovation, collaboration, and a deep understanding of the needs of a very specific, demanding user: the serious cyclist. Born from the partnership between legendary watchmaker Richard Mille and four-time Formula One World Champion and avid cyclist Alain Prost, this timepiece is a unique blend of horological artistry and practical functionality, designed to track mileage and enhance the cycling experience.

This article delves into the intricacies of the RM 70-01, exploring its unique design, complex mechanics, and the philosophy behind its creation. We'll also touch upon other notable Richard Mille collaborations and designs, including those related to Jackie Chan, McLaren, and other skeletonized models.

A Collaboration of Legends: Richard Mille and Alain Prost

Richard Mille's brand is synonymous with pushing boundaries, both in design and engineering. Their watches are often characterized by their bold aesthetics, use of unconventional materials, and incredibly complex movements. Alain Prost, on the other hand, is a racing icon, known for his precision, strategic thinking, and relentless pursuit of excellence. His passion for cycling is well-documented, making him the perfect partner for this project.

The collaboration between these two visionaries resulted in a watch that addresses a specific need for cyclists: accurately tracking distance travelled. While electronic devices offer this functionality, Prost and Mille sought to create a mechanical solution, a testament to the beauty and precision of traditional watchmaking. The RM 70-01 isn't just a time-telling device; it's a sophisticated mechanical odometer, a wearable companion for the serious cyclist.

The RM 70-01: A Deep Dive into its Unconventional Design

The first thing that strikes you about the RM 70-01 is its unconventional shape. The tonneau case is not symmetrical; it's ergonomically designed to be worn on the right wrist, allowing cyclists to comfortably read the time and track their mileage while riding. This asymmetrical design is not merely aesthetic; it's a functional element crucial to the watch's purpose.

The case itself is crafted from Carbon TPT®, a material renowned for its exceptional strength and lightweight properties. Carbon TPT® is created by layering hundreds of parallel filaments obtained by separating out carbon fibers. These layers, with a maximum thickness of 45 microns, are then impregnated with resin and woven on a special machine that modifies the direction of the weft by 45° between layers. The material is then heated to 120°C at a pressure of 6 Bar in an autoclave before being machined at Richard Mille's factory. The result is a material that is both incredibly strong and exceptionally light, perfect for a sports-oriented timepiece.

The dial is open-worked, showcasing the intricate mechanics of the movement. The skeletonized design allows the wearer to appreciate the complexity and craftsmanship that goes into creating this horological masterpiece. The use of vibrant colors, such as the bright red accents on the pushers and mileage counters, adds a sporty and dynamic touch to the watch.

The Heart of the Matter: The RM 70-01 Movement

At the heart of the RM 70-01 beats the Calibre RM70-01, a manually wound tourbillon movement. The tourbillon, a rotating cage that houses the escapement and balance wheel, is a highly complex mechanism designed to counteract the effects of gravity on the accuracy of the watch. It's a symbol of horological excellence and a testament to Richard Mille's commitment to pushing the boundaries of watchmaking.

However, the most unique feature of the RM 70-01 is its mechanical odometer. Located on the right side of the watch, this mechanism allows cyclists to record their mileage. The wearer can input the distance travelled using two pushers, one to advance the tens of thousands digit and the other to advance the single digits. The mileage is displayed on a series of rotating rollers, allowing cyclists to track their progress over time.

The odometer is designed to track distances up to 99,999 kilometers. While this might seem like an excessive amount, it reflects the dedication and commitment of serious cyclists who often log thousands of kilometers each year. The mechanism is also incredibly robust, designed to withstand the shocks and vibrations associated with cycling.

The movement boasts a power reserve of approximately 70 hours, ensuring that the watch will continue to function even after extended periods of inactivity. The finishing of the movement is impeccable, with hand-polished bridges, beveled edges, and intricate engravings. Every detail of the movement is meticulously crafted to meet the highest standards of horological excellence.

More Than Just a Watch: The RM 70-01 as a Statement

The Richard Mille RM 70-01 Tourbillon Alain Prost is more than just a watch; it's a statement. It's a symbol of passion, innovation, and a commitment to pushing the boundaries of what's possible. It's a watch for those who appreciate the beauty and complexity of traditional watchmaking, but also demand functionality and practicality.

richard mille rm 70