In pictures: Richard Mille RM 30-01 Automatic with Declutchable Rotor

Exclusive live shots of the Richard Mille RM 30-01 Automatic with Declutchable Rotor, a wearable work of engineering art, captured at the Richard Mil

The Richard Mille RM 30-01 Automatic with Declutchable Rotor stands out for its fusion of original aesthetic solutions and advanced technical features.

From the skeletonised dial revealing the movement’s architectural depth to the declutchable variable‑geometry rotor that automatically disengages at full wind, the RM 30-01 is both a high-performance machine and a wearable work of engineering art.

We recently had the pleasure of handling the 5N red gold version of this masterpiece at the Richard Mille boutique in Milan, and we greatly enjoyed the unmistakable Richard Mille feel on the wrist: light yet solid, with every detail meticulously considered.

Now, we are delighted to share some live pictures of the watch with our readers.

The 42.00 x 49.94 x 17.59 mm tonneau-shaped case features a back and bezel in 5N red gold, paired with a case middle in grade 5 titanium. 

Its tripartite construction guarantees water resistance to 50 metres / 165 feet, ensured by two Nitrile O-ring seals.

Finishes are flawless, with satin-brushed surfaces and polished bevels.

Its weight has been reduced as much as possible (96 grammes including the strap) for exceptional comfort on the wrist.

Combining titanium and sapphire, the skeletonised double dial reveals many details of the sophisticated movement. 

The Grade 5 titanium bridges and baseplate were designed to emphasise perspective and depth.

Perfectly following the complex geometry of the case, the curved 1.50 mm-thick sapphire crystal features an anti-glare treatment on both sides.

Semi-instantaneous, the oversized date display is positioned in a horizontal aperture at 4 o’clock.

Just above it, you can spot the function-selector indicator, which displays the active setting: W for winding, D for date correction, and H for setting the hands. Each function can be selected by operating the push-button located at 2 o’clock, in a manner similar to a car’s gearbox.

To remove any tension linked to overwinding, the RM 30-01’s variable-geometry rotor, visible on the caseback, automatically declutches once the power reserve reaches 55 hours by disconnecting itself from the winding mechanism.

This enables the 4 Hz (28,800 vibrations per hour) RMAR2 calibre to operate when the barrel torque benefits from the most stable torque/power ratio.

As soon as the power reserve drops below 40 hours, the rotor re-engages to rewind the barrel spring. This allows the oscillating organ to continue operating while maintaining excellent chronometric performance.

These phases can be observed via the clutch engagement indicator located at 11 o’clock, which shows whether the rotor is in the winding phase (on) or disengaged (off).

The power-reserve indicator, marked from 0 to 55, is arranged in a visually engaging layout, highlighted by coloured transfers for added emphasis.

For more details on the Richard Mille RM 30-01 Automatic with Declutchable Rotor, including the titanium version, you can read this article. Further information is available at richardmille.com

Suggested reading:

- The history of Richard Mille