Richard Mille RM 35-03 Automatic Rafael Nadal White Quartz TPT

Richard Mille RM 35-03 Automatic 'Rafael Nadal'

Monaco Formula 1 driver Charles Leclerc, who races for Ferrari, wears the rare 2021 release Richard Mille RM 35-03 Automatic “Rafael Nadal”.

This is the fourth model in the RM 035 series, and thanks to the use of quartz TPT material, it is ultra-light despite its 43 mm wide case. It featured a skeletonized dial and a user-adjustable rotor, the first wristwatch ever to offer this feature to its wearer.

The newest Richard Mille RM 035 "Baby Nadal" collection is a technical distillation for any lover of excellence. In addition, it is also influenced by the RM 027 series tourbillon timepiece that Nadal used on the tennis court. The new RM 35-03 Automatic Rafael Nadal is the fourth watch in the series and deserves a place in this illustrious company. It revolutionized watches in the form of a butterfly rotor.

Richard Mille RM 35-03 Automatic Rafael Nadal consists of many layers of parallel filaments made by separating carbon fiber or silica threads. It measures 43.15mm x 49.95mm and is 13.15mm thick. The surface has changing stripes that give the model a unique look.

Originally, the RM 35-02 already had a variable geometry rotor (a hallmark feature of Richard Mille automatic movements). However, the innovative butterfly rotor of the RM 35-03 enables the user to interact directly with the rotor geometry. They can also adjust the winding speed of the movement according to their lifestyle and activity level, enabling complications that are as fun as they are useful.

The butterfly oscillating weight of the skeletonized self-winding RMAL2 Caliber consists of 2 weights in grade 5 titanium. The gravitational radial movement of the weight in its starting position creates the precise force that turns the barrel.

A gear system dedicated to the oscillating weight distributes the two weights at 180 degrees, exerting moderate pressure on the pusher at 7 o'clock. The center of gravity is then reset, bringing the oscillating weight back into balance and terminating the winding operation, as well as the winding of any additional calibers in the event of movement. If you apply pressure to the button again, the oscillating weight will start to move and wind the movement.

The infinite balance with dynamic inertia oscillates at 28,800 vibrations per hour (4 Hz). This ensures increased reliability if subjected to shocks, even during movement setting and extraction, resulting in better timekeeping performance over time. With four compact, replaceable weights on the balance, the adjustment index is removed, allowing for more precise and repeatable adjustments.

Twin barrel technology helps to maintain power consistency over a longer period of time by ensuring a power reserve of up to 55 hours. This is achieved by distributing the stored energy between the two barrels. As a result, it balances torque and minimizes friction on bearings and pivots for better long-term function.

Simply press the pusher at 2 o'clock to select the winding (W), neutral (N) and time setting (H) functions. The designated function is indicated by the pointer at 2 o'clock. The crown is also made of grade 5 titanium and carbon TPT with a rubber o-ring cap. Plus, it's water-resistant up to 50 meters (165 feet).