A horological tribute to Japanese craftsmanship: tourbillon precision encased in hand-engraved Samurai armor.
Overview
The RM 47 Tourbillon “Time of the Samurai” is a work of intense reflection spanning nearly four years of design, merging art and spirituality in mechanical form. It was conceived through a discussion between Richard Mille and brand partner Fernando Alonso, who shares a deep passion for Japanese traditional arts and the ethos of Bushido. This limited edition—75 pieces worldwide—houses a compact tourbillon movement beneath a hand-engraved and painted Samurai armor in 3N yellow gold, reflecting ancestral Japanese culture.
Technical Specifications
- Reference: RM 47 “Time of the Samurai” (Historical Model)
- Movement: Manual-winding tourbillon, Caliber RM47 (hours and minutes)
- Power Reserve: Approximately 72 hours (±10%
- Case Dimensions: ~42.7 × 50 mm, tonneau-shaped; materials include scratch-resistant TPZ black ceramic and 18K 3N yellow gold, secured with Grade 5 titanium screws; torque-limiting crown; water-resistant to 30 m
- Decoration: Samurai armor meticulously hand-engraved by Pierre-Alain Lozeron and painted by Valérie Lozeron; armor in 3N yellow gold includes the crest of the Asano clan—an emblem of the Samurai code, Bushido
- Movement Specs: Dimensions approx. 32.8×30.9 mm; thickness 6.8 mm; tourbillon cage diameter ~10.9 mm; 19 jewels; balance frequency 21,600 vph (3 Hz); Glucydur® balance; elinvar balance spring; KIF shock protection
A Fusion of Horology and Art
More than a high-end timepiece, the RM 47 is wearable sculpture: a striking dialogue between mechanical mastery and cultural reverence. Each element—from the state-of-the-art tourbillon mechanics to the handcrafted Samurai armor—speaks of exclusivity and the future of haute horlogerie. Designed for horizons beyond mere timekeeping.
