The Richard Mille RM 43-01 Tourbillon Split-Seconds Chronograph Ferrari is a highly exclusive 42.9mm luxury timepiece crafted in grade 5 titanium, limited to just 75 pieces. This model features a signature tonneau-shaped case with a thickness of 17.1mm and a lug-to-lug distance of 51.2mm. The skeletonized dial and movement are designed to evoke the aesthetic of a Ferrari engine, utilizing microblasted and satin-finished surfaces reminiscent of sandcast engine components. It is powered by the manual-winding Caliber RM 43-01, a 3 Hz movement offering a 70-hour power reserve and a remarkable shock resistance of over 5,000g.
The watch is defined by its complex complications, most notably a split-seconds chronograph with dual column wheels and a tourbillon located at the 6 o’clock position. The tourbillon serves as the base for a unique running seconds display featuring a five-pointed hand segmented into 12-second intervals. Additional technical indicators include a power reserve display and a torque indicator, which provides information on the tension of the mainspring. The crown is paired with a function selector, allowing the wearer to easily switch between winding, neutral, and time-setting modes.
General reviews of the RM 43-01 highlight its “no-holds-barred” overengineering and the seamless integration of Ferrari’s design DNA, such as pushers shaped like air intakes and a crown modeled after drive-mode selectors. While critics appreciate the extreme technical prowess and lightweight feel on the wrist, some find the highly skeletonized dial to be visually overwhelming for daily use. Despite its substantial dimensions, the watch is noted for its ergonomic comfort due to the curved case design, though its seven-figure price tag and extreme rarity make it accessible only to a very small group of collectors.