Richard Mille’s RM 69 Erotic Tourbillon
Automated phrases of passion scroll across this limited edition automatic watch
There’s something innately personal about a wristwatch. It rests on the body as a reflection of one’s aesthetic values and design interests. It’s more than an item of utility, it’s one of the rare accessories men wear with frequency. Channeling this notion, luxury Swiss watchmaker Richard Mille announced a new limited edition timepiece, the RM 69 Erotic Tourbillon. The very face of the watch contains open proclamations of sexual desire, dubbed the “Oracle” complication. An interior mechanism, activated by pressing a button near the 10 o’clock indicator, powers three grade-five titanium engraved rollers which shift to another phrase. For clear visibility, the hands can disappear, thanks to another pusher. This isn’t the first time eroticism has been incorporated into fine watchmaking—in fact, it’s an important part of horological history—but it’s distinct in its use of text rather than image.
In addition to the flirtatious design elements, this Richard Mille timepiece bears tremendous engineering advancements. The movement—designed in collaboration with Audemars Piguet Renaud & Papi—contains 505 components and 41 jewels, and still stays relatively compact due in part to a Duopian build that aligns the tourbillon and barrel. The watch sports a 69-hour power reserve, and a tripartite case in grade fivetitanium. While it’s large, at 50mm, it’s ergonomically designed for resting on the wrist, making it a comfortable but not-so-discreet way to reveal your erotic thoughts, or ponder them yourself.
The RM 69 Erotic Tourbillon will be available exclusively through Richard Mille boutiques worldwide in late August.
Images courtesy of Richard Mille
