Introducing the RM 65-01 Automatic Split-Seconds Chronograph McLaren W1, the latest masterpiece from Richard Mille, blending cutting-edge watchmaking with McLaren’s automotive prowess. Limited to only 500 pieces, this is the most complex automatic chronograph Richard Mille has ever created, embodying both high-performance mechanics and luxurious design.
Inspired by McLaren’s Supercar Legacy
The RM 65-01 is influenced by the McLaren W1 supercar, a revolutionary successor to the iconic McLaren F1 (1992) and McLaren P1 (2013). This connection between horology and automotive engineering is evident in every aspect of the watch, mirroring McLaren’s commitment to excellence in performance and precision.
A Movement Like No Other
At the heart of the RM 65-01 McLaren W1 is the RMAC4 automatic chronograph movement. This high-performance engine runs at 5Hz (36,000 vibrations per hour), allowing for split-seconds chronograph accuracy to within a tenth of a second. The vertical clutch and six-column wheels ensure smooth operation, echoing the precision of McLaren’s automotive engineering. This movement is mounted on chassis rubbers for enhanced stability, much like a car’s suspension system.
Additionally, the watch features an innovative rapid winding system, which fully charges the impressive 60-hour power reserve quickly using a unique pusher crafted from orange Quartz TPT®, a nod to McLaren’s signature color.
A Design to Match
The body of the RM 65-01 mirrors the sleek and muscular aesthetics of the McLaren W1 supercar. The Carbon TPT® case—measuring 43.84 x 49.94 x 16.19 mm—wraps around the movement, similar to how the W1’s body envelops its powerful engine. The design was inspired by exclusive access to the W1’s initial clay models, with a special focus on the car’s aerodynamics and aero-cell architecture.
The indented ‘double’ bezel—crafted from Carbon TPT® and mounted on a satin-finished, polished grade 5 titanium second bezel—required nine months of meticulous development. This level of craftsmanship demonstrates Richard Mille’s commitment to engineering watches as complex as McLaren’s supercars.
High-Tech Materials & Craftsmanship
The skeletonised titanium dial is inspired by McLaren’s wheel rim designs and features colors reminiscent of a supercar dashboard, enhancing both practicality and style. The dial design took great inspiration from the dynamic and aggressive design of McLaren cars, ensuring that the watch isn’t just a tribute but a true extension of the McLaren driving experience.
Ergonomics and Wearability
In keeping with McLaren’s “performance everywhere” principle, the RM 65-01 is designed for both track and daily wear. The function selector crown operates like a car’s transmission selector, allowing users to switch between Winding (W), Date setting (D), or Hand-setting (H). The crown, pushers, and rapid winding pusher are crafted with exquisite attention to detail, featuring design elements from McLaren’s lightweight seats and drive shafts.
A Driving Watch for Every Day
With its rugged build, 480-part movement, and variable geometry winding rotor, the RM 65-01 is a powerful yet practical timepiece. The papaya orange rubber strap, reflecting McLaren’s branding, features aerodynamic patterns inspired by the W1’s foils and engine cover. Through the sapphire crystal case back, wearers can admire the meticulous finishing of the movement, echoing the craftsmanship visible in McLaren’s engine compartments.
A Shared Vision of Innovation
This fourth collaboration between Richard Mille and McLaren exemplifies a partnership rooted in pushing the limits of performance. As Julien Boillat, Casing Technical Director at Richard Mille, puts it: “Our design language has really gelled. Both teams work to the highest technical specifications, and ergonomics are just as important to us as they are to McLaren.”
Similarly, Andrea Bermudez, Global Marketing Director at McLaren Automotive, highlights the synergy between both brands: “The W1 delivers epic power and performance, both on track and road. Reflecting this in a watch was daunting, but Richard Mille has surpassed all expectations with the RM 65-01 McLaren W1.”
A Collector’s Dream
The RM 65-01 is not just a timepiece but a horological manifestation of McLaren’s automotive ingenuity. It follows in the footsteps of previous Richard Mille-McLaren collaborations such as the RM 50-03 Tourbillon Split-Seconds Chronograph F1 (2017), RM 11-03 Automatic Flyback Chronograph McLaren (2018), and RM 40-01 Automatic Tourbillon McLaren Speedtail (2021).
Each of these watches, like the McLaren supercars, is a testament to pushing boundaries, making the RM 65-01 McLaren W1 a watch lover’s dream and an ultimate collector’s item.
