A few hours ago, at the 2018 Geneva International Motor Show, Richard Mille announced the launch of their first McLaren automotive-inspired timepiece, the new Richard Mille RM 11-03 McLaren Automatic Flyback Chronograph in a combination of orange and black. For years now Richard Mille has been associated with bold, highly technical, colourful and automotive inspired watches and this new release is no exception.
This year Rob Melville, McLaren’s Design Head and Richard Mille’s Engineer, Fabrice Namura, have combined their expertise to introduce a timepiece that is unique in design and plays with the use of unique materials. The case of the new RM11-03 is made of Carbon TPT interlaced with Orange Quartz TPT, resulting in a watch which is rugged and extremely light in weight.
The design of the titanium chronograph pushers are inspired the headlights of the McLaren 720S and titanium inserts on the bezel; reminiscent of the McLaren F1’s air-intake snorkel. And it doesn’t just end there. The crown which is made from Grade 5 titanium is shaped like a McLaren lightweight wheel and covered with orange rubber. Finally, the rubber strap incorporates McLaren’s Speedmark logo; specially made for this timepiece.
The dial may seem a little busy at first, but the indications are clearly visible and enhanced with the use of different colours to improve readability. There is also an Annual Calendar, big date window between 10 and 2 o clock, 12 hour chronograph and countdown counters on the dial. Beating inside the new RM 11-03, is the automatic RMAC3 movement which features a flyback chronograph and a power reserve of 55 hours. The bridges and plates are once again made from PVD-treated grade 5 titanium for improved gear train functionality.
Limited to just 500 pieces globally, the RM 11-03 McLaren Automatic Flyback Chronograph is priced at CHF 194,000