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Watch Collecting lists its most expensive watch yet...

The RM 004 Split seconds chronograph was introduced in 2004 after more than 5 years of research and development. All aspects of the movement architecture were re-examined and traditional approaches questioned.

Improvements to the geometry of the column wheels that control the switching of the chronograph virtually eliminated the jumping of the seconds hand that affects many split-chronographs.

A carbon nanofibre baseplate was used, an isotropic composite material moulded under high pressure of 7,500 N/cm2 at a temperature of 2,000˚C, for lightness and rigidity.The bridges were all constructed from grade 5 titanium.

Taking cues from motor racing, the torque indicator shows the state of the mainspring and whether it is at the optimum tension for running the chronograph.Below 53dNmm is considered too slack, while above 65dNmm is too high.

The status of the crown is indicated by the WNH display which shows if the function is winding, neutral, or hand-setting. The 30 jewel manual-wind movement provides 60 hours of power reserve.

With the use of cutting-edge materials and original manufacturing techniques, similar to what you might expect in an F1 car, it is no surprise the Richard Mille position themselves as 'A Racing Machine for the Wrist'. 

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