RM 021 TOURBILLON WRISTWATCH “Aerodyne”Richard Mille’s pioneering reputation began eight years ago with his landmark production of theRM 001 and RM 002 wristwatches. Models, as the press and public alike unanimously agreed, whichset the highest limits for watchmaking both in terms of their design, mechanical inventiveness and useof materials. However, this was only a beginning, a warning shot across the bows of watchmaking soto speak. More important than their eye opening originality, those models set the groundwork for anew form of 21st century horology that would energize, open and even change the essence of thewatchmaking industry. The RM 001 and RM 002 proved beyond a doubt that innovative ideas andtechnology could be integrated simultaneously with all that was rare, exceptional and traditional in theworld of haute horology.Now, eight years after that watershed moment, in a moment of simultaneous recollection andforesight, the RM 021 is introduced. A watch that takes its place at the center of everything 21st centurywatchmaking is all about. The numeric composition of this model number is not just a coincidence, it isa statement. The model number reflects those first two landmark models, as well as the number ofour present century. It also marks the entrance of the theme of air, space and supersonic speed tothe brand’s imagery and inspiration.Orthorhombic titanium aluminides are new group of alloys, developed from the main class of titaniumaluminides, which possess a specific crystalline molecular structure ordered on the orthorhombicphase of Ti2AlNb. Its use within a honeycombed geometrical pattern was originally the subject ofresearch by NASA for application as a core material of supersonic aircraft wings, where resistanceto extremely high temperatures and torsion is paramount. The alloy in this honeycombed form hasunparalleled stiffness, a low thermal expansion coefficient and exceptional torsion resistance.The actual shape of the baseplate itself as seen from the dial side resembles the trench-like V- shapedprofile of a flying wing aircraft where the wing tips are positioned higher than the central body ofthe aircraft itself. The winding barrel and the tourbillon are both placed in the central depth of thisaerodynamic structure, balancing on light and airy bridges with four arms on two sides.Available in titanium and 18-carat red or white gold, with alligator strap and matching buckle.
![](http://www.iwatch365.com/data/attachment/forum/month_0902/20090225_d56933f9c0e8a185f6ea2uLCyW2CFJmT.jpg)