Richard Mille has introduced its fourth collaboration with McLaren: the RM 65-01 McLaren Automatic Split-Seconds Chronograph W1.
Limited to 500 pieces, this watch is inspired by McLaren’s new W1 supercar and is the most complex automatic chronograph in the Swiss watchmaker’s collection.
The RM 65-01 McLaren W1 features a Carbon TPT case measuring 43.84 x 49.94 x 16.19 mm. Its design, inspired by the W1’s “aero-cell” architecture, includes a unique ‘double’ bezel, which posed significant technical challenges during development.
McLaren W1 Supercar inspires new Richard Mille timepiece
The watch is powered by the RMAC4 movement, which operates at 5Hz and can record times to one-tenth of a second. It includes a ‘rapid winding’ system and a variable geometry rotor.
“This project perfectly illustrates Richard Mille’s philosophy of constantly pushing technical boundaries to create innovative watches that include the latest watchmaking developments with a functional, practical and high-performance approach,” Salvador Arbona, Technical Director for Movements at Richard Mille said.
The watch’s design incorporates elements from the W1, including a crown inspired by the car’s drive shafts and pushers reminiscent of McLaren’s lightweight seats. The strap features patterns reflecting the W1’s aerodynamic elements.
This release marks the fourth watch in the Richard Mille-McLaren partnership, which began in 2016. Previous models include the RM 50-03, RM 11-03, and RM 40-01.
The RM 65-01 McLaren W1 aims to reflect the high-performance features of the W1 supercar in terms of shape, materials, and functionality.