Richard Mille looks to the colored sapphire prism of the first 07-02 model with the new Automatic Sapphire collection.
The new collection includes four new models, including a brand-new lilac sapphire color, gem-set pink sapphire, green sapphire and gem-set green sapphire.
Richard Millie first designed watch cases made entirely of colored sapphire in 2015.
The openwork, geometric dial draws attention to the CRMA5 in-house skeletonized automatic movement which displays the hours and minutes.
It is wound by a variable-geometry rotor making it possible to configure the winding of the movement to the activity of the wearer by adjusting two small weights, and the compact caliber has a power reserve of approximately 50 hours.
A true technical feat, Richard Mille introduces diamond settings to the new 07-02, decorating the dial, bezel and flange.
An intricate and complex operation, a laser is required to perform the mitraillage – drilling holes for the stones. This must be accurate to the nearest micron.
Prongs in hand-polished gold, made separately, are then inserted, creating the settings that hold the precious stones in place. The creation of this case requires over 1,000 hours of machining.
Alongside diamonds, blue sapphires and vibrant yellow sapphires are combined with ornamental stones such as orange spessartite, white agate or opal, and various shades of green tsavorite, chrysoprase and malachite.
The RM 07-02 Automatic Sapphire is limited to seven timepieces for each of the four colorways.
Price available on request.