In a world where luxury watches and high-performance cars collide, Richard Mille has once again pushed the boundaries of horology with the RM 43-01 Tourbillon Split-Seconds Chronograph Ferrari. This isn’t just a watch; it’s a statement—a mechanical symphony inspired by the roaring engines and aerodynamic curves of Ferrari’s finest. Following the ultra-thin UP-01, the 43-01 takes a maximalist approach, packing in complications and design elements that scream Ferrari from every angle.
The 43-01 comes in two distinct flavors: a titanium and Carbon TPT version, and a full Carbon TPT model. Each is limited to just 75 pieces, ensuring exclusivity that matches its price tag. The titanium variant leans into classic Ferrari aesthetics with gold and red accents, while the carbon version is a modern, performance-driven beast. Both share the same case dimensions—42.9mm wide, 17.1mm thick—and are water-resistant up to 50 meters. But don’t let the numbers fool you; this watch is as much about artistry as it is about engineering.
At its heart lies the RM43-01 movement, a manually wound caliber that’s as complex as it is beautiful. It features a tourbillon, a split-seconds chronograph with dual column wheels, a power reserve display, and even a torque indicator. The dial—if you can call it that—is a labyrinth of functions, with a 1-minute tourbillon at the lower right, a chronograph minutes display above, and a power reserve indicator in the top left. The centerpiece? Traditional hour and minute hands, flanked by two chronograph hands, all working in harmony to deliver precision and performance.
The design is unmistakably Ferrari. From the markers shaped like car intakes to the small Ferrari logo plate in the lower left corner, every element feels like it was ripped straight from a supercar. The chronograph system, inspired by Ferrari’s SF90 and Daytona SP3, uses a pair of column wheels to manage its intricate functions. Even the gold finish on the split-second brake is a nod to Ferrari’s racing heritage, ensuring the watch can handle shocks as well as any track-tested vehicle.
Let’s address the elephant in the room: the price. The titanium version starts at $1.3 million, while the Carbon TPT model climbs to $1.535 million. Yes, you read that right. But in the world of Richard Mille and Ferrari, this isn’t just a watch—it’s a piece of art, a mechanical masterpiece, and a symbol of exclusivity. For those who can afford it, the RM 43-01 is more than a timepiece; it’s a wearable testament to the pinnacle of engineering and design.
The RM 43-01 isn’t for everyone, and that’s the point. It’s a watch for those who appreciate the intersection of horology and automotive excellence, for those who see a Ferrari and think, “I want that on my wrist.” It’s big, bold, and unapologetically expensive—a true reflection of the brands behind it. Whether you’re a collector, a Ferrari enthusiast, or just someone who loves cutting-edge engineering, the RM 43-01 is a watch that demands attention and respect.
