The Blazing Richard Mille RM011 Orange Storm
No other watch brand is as connected to sports as Richard Mille. Whether you're in the stands at Le Mans or only feet from centre court at Rolland Garros, you're apt to spot one of Richard Mille's creations somewhere in the crowd (or strapped on an athlete's wrist).
The RM011 Orange Storm is more than perfect for a fast-paced environment--a 200 mph kind of "fast-paced environment." Its jet-black, ultra scratch-resistant, TZP ceramic case is built to endure extreme shock. Most ceramic pieces are generally not durable. For example, Omega's Dark Side of the Moon, a superb chronograph wristwatch for the money, is also crafted from a high-grade black ceramic. I'm not looking to derogate any manufacture, but finishing processes for the ceramic used in Omega's Dark Side of the Moon is slightly different than that of Richard Mille, resulting in a more fragile ceramic.
Another rarity of this RM011 is the utilization of a second unusual substance: NTPT (North Thin Ply Technology) carbon. NTPT carbon is an unbelievably light-weight carbon more commonly seen in aerospace technology and F1 car production. This material can be found in the center "caseband," crown, and pushers.
A trademark feature of many Richard Mille timepieces is a tonneau case shape and, even more captivating, a skeletonized dial. At first glance, boldly-colored orange indices, hands, and registers appear. Though with a closer look, you'll notice a totally skeletonized movement resting behind the dial and sapphire crystal. Without the chronograph function running and with a fully-wound mechanism, this sports watch will have a power reserve of 55 hours.
To keep everything sleek and sporty, RM includes an orange rubber strap and titanium folding clasp.
Pricing is said to be at $160,000 and the Richard Mille RM011 Orange Storm is exclusive to the Americas in a limited edition of 30 pieces. For further information, please visit www.richardmille.com or www.westime.com.