Cover RM 75-01 Flying Tourbillon Sapphire with a clear sapphire case
RM 75-01 Flying Tourbillon Sapphire with a clear sapphire case
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Blending architectural finesse with ocean-inspired hues, Richard Mille’s RM 75-01 Flying Tourbillon Sapphire arrives in three ultra-exclusive editions—clear, blue, and pink
Whether you are escaping to a secluded beach, discovering the cultural layers of a storied city, or simply soaking in the golden evening light on a rooftop, Richard Mille’s new RM 75-01 Flying Tourbillon Sapphire collection makes the perfect companion. These limited‑edition watches are sculptural statements crafted not just to travel in style, but to evoke and transport its wearer to the very landscapes that inspired them.
Available in three radiant expressions, each RM 75-01 timepiece is inspired by the shifting tones and textures of the sea, as well as the bold architecture of Gothic art. “These inspirations provided us with a path guiding our choices of colours and the style we wanted for these pieces,” says Cécile Guenat, Richard Mille’s creative and development director. “Our goal was to distill the essence of these influences to offer a contemporary interpretation.”
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Above RM 75-01 Flying Tourbillon Sapphire with a lilac pink caseback
RM 75-01 Flying Tourbillon Sapphire with a lilac pink caseback
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There is the fully transparent clear sapphire model, its crystalline structure reminiscent of gentle waves lapping against the shore, paired with a sea green rubber strap that conjures images of coral reefs and verdant tropical beaches. Then there are two editions with coloured sapphire casebacks: one in a rich sapphire blue that mirrors the mysterious depth of the ocean and that is paired with a matching blue rubber strap; and the other in a soft lilac pink—a hue that brings to mind the pastel twilight of a South Sea evening—on a pink rubber strap. This considered use of coloured sapphire casebacks—subtly visible through the transparent casing—creates an effect that is not too loud, yet quietly magnetic.
Naturally, this being Richard Mille, there is substance beyond the stunning surface. The RM 75‑01 Flying Tourbillon Sapphire marks the first time the Swiss luxury watch manufacture has conceived a movement specifically for a sapphire case. The result is a timepiece that feels unusually light, yet anchored in craftsmanship. The fully skeletonised calibre is the perfect complement to the transparent case; almost like a sculpture in a glass showcase. At the heart of this architectural structure lies a titanium baseplate, so finely openworked it resembles metallic lace. It supports the gear train, barrel and tourbillon without the need for upper bridges. This bold decision not only enhances the visual lightness of the movement but also reinforces its resilience.
Above RM 75-01 Flying Tourbillon Sapphire with a clear sapphire case
RM 75-01 Flying Tourbillon Sapphire with a clear sapphire case
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The architecture of the calibre itself, daring in its proportions, evokes the grandeur of an ancient dome. Inspired by the ribbed vaults of Gothic cathedrals—structures that have endured centuries and defined artistic eras—its monumental frame in microblasted red gold is anchored by pillars of satin-polished titanium. Together, these elements form a harmonious interplay of strength and transparency, capturing both the poise of historical architecture and the modernity of Richard Mille’s mechanical vision.
Every detail has been considered: the multilevel baseplate forms a sculptural triangular structure that plays with light and shadow; Super‑LumiNova accents ensure the watch glows softly when night falls. None of this would be possible without the sapphire itself—a material as demanding as it is beautiful. It ranks nine on the Mohs hardness scale, a system that measures how resistant a mineral is to scratching, with 1 being the softest and 10 the hardest. Sapphire is just slightly below diamond, which has a ranking of 10, and machining it into the RM 75-01’s signature tripartite case is a feat that takes over 1,000 hours, of which 430 hours are dedicated to pre-forming the case components, and another 350 hours devoted to polishing the entire watch case.
Above The lilac pink caseback of the RM 75-01 Flying Tourbillon Sapphire
The lilac pink caseback of the RM 75-01 Flying Tourbillon Sapphire
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Meanwhile, the creation of coloured sapphire by incorporating metallic oxides into the sapphire’s crystal structure presented an additional challenge. This process is even more complex and delicate than for creating transparent sapphire, requiring extremely precise control of temperature and growth rate. The slightest variation can result in uneven colour distribution or the formation of bubbles, and achieving an exact colour match between blocks remains no mean feat.
Even the crown of the RM 75‑01 exemplifies Richard Mille’s attention to detail, conceived not merely as a functional element but as a miniature sculptural jewel. Each one requires hours of meticulous work and is set with 28 brilliant-cut white diamonds—an ornamental flourish that never compromises utility. The clear sapphire edition features a crown inlaid with white agate, echoing the purity of ocean foam, while the blue sapphire model is adorned with rose opal, adding a soft, luminous contrast to its deep-sea tones.
Each of the three models in the RM 75-01 Flying Tourbillon Sapphire collection is produced in extremely limited numbers: 15 pieces in clear sapphire, and 10 each of the blue and lilac-pink variants. These watches are not made for mass appeal, but for those who value rarity, precision, and thoughtful design. Every detail of the timepiece—from the complex sapphire case construction to the skeletonised movement—showcases Richard Mille’s mastery of materials and mechanics. With its technical focus, distinct visual identity, and limited availability, the RM 75-01 Flying Tourbillon Sapphire reflects the brand’s uncompromising approach to contemporary high-watchmaking.
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Annabel Tan is the Editor of Watches and Jewellery at Tatler Singapore, where she covers all things luxury timepieces and fine jewellery across both print and digital platforms. She is also the Editor of Tatler GMT Singapore, a role that deepens her fascination with the ever-evolving world of watchmaking. Outside of work, she’s usually on the hunt for her next favourite watch that she can’t afford, planning her next beach getaway, or catching up on the latest Formula 1 race.
