While the new Richard Mille RM 011 Red TPT Quartz was officially released at the beginning of October of 2015, it wasn't until the SIHH 2016 Salon International de la Haute Horlogerie last week, that the watch was available to the press and the rest of the world for hands-on review.  The new Richard Mille RM 011 Red TPT Quartz we finally saw at the SIHH 2016, is not a quartz watch —battery operated— as the name might suggest, but quartz as in one of the components used in its case material. Coupled with its RM 011 automatic flyback chronograph caliber, Richard Mille presents the latest incarnation of its TPT quartz case dressed in vibrant red. A unique color in fine watchmaking, it redefines the graphic limitations of this material.

Since it was unveiled two years ago, Richard Mille’s NTPT carbon has enabled the Jura-based brand to produce cases and components with exceptional mechanical performances. The creation of TPT Quartz cases involves inserting layers of silica no thicker than 45 microns between layers of the NTPT carbon, using an automated application system which modifies the orientation of the fibers between each layer by 45°. After being heated to 120°C in an autoclave similar to those used for aeronautical parts, the material is ready to be worked by ProArt, the Manufacture dedicated to machining Richard Mille cases and components.

Research carried out on red TPT quartz led to the creation of an intense red resin, whose shine is enhanced by the quartz fibers. Selected for its stability and bio-compatibility, this pigment satisfies all the REACH regulations. The combination of red TPT quartz and black NTPT carbon guarantees the uniqueness of every case, as the machining process randomly reveals the pattern formed when these two materials merge.

Featuring an oversized date at 12 o’clock, a month display at 4 o’clock and a flyback chrono with a countdown function, this iconic Richard Mille timepiece reveals a fresh new look. The RM 011 TPT red quartz edition will be limited to 50 pieces and only available at the Richard Mille boutiques worldwide.

The new red TPT quartz and NTPT carbon case ensures that the automatic RMAC1 caliber equipping the famous RM 011 is fully protected. This grade 5 titanium movement has a power reserve of 55 hours powered by a double barrel system wound by a variable-geometry rotor. The movement is fully visible via the display case back and is a real treat for the eyes.

On the wrist, the watch is light as a feather but not as light as the RM 27-01. The watch wears true to its size and remarkably nice thanks to its bright red case.

Sticker Price $160,000 USD. For more info on Richard Mille click here.