Introducing: The Richard Mille RM 032 Ultimate Edition
What We Know
Richard Mille’s RM 032 Automatic Flyback Chronograph Ultimate Edition marks the final chapter in the RM 032 series. It’s a technical dive watch with a not-so-subtle wrist presence. Measuring 50.00 (FIFTY!) x 17.80 mm, this big-boy combines grade 5 titanium and Carbon TPT® for a robust yet lightweight construction. Designed for “serious underwater use,” the RM 032 offers water resistance up to 300 meters, and its unidirectional bezel is secured with eight-point-star screws.
The watch is powered by the Calibre RMAC2, featuring a flyback chronograph, oversize date, and month display. A running indicator at 3 o’clock utilizes a rotating Super-LumiNova® disc for easy visibility in low-light conditions. The movement includes a variable-geometry rotor and double-barrel system, delivering a 50-hour power reserve. A notable feature is the patented locking crown mechanism, which prevents accidental operation underwater. Rotating the crown’s ring locks the pushers and crown, enhancing safety during dives.
Since its debut in 2011, the RM 032 series has been Richard Mille’s gateway to underwater exploration. The latest model continues the course and can be seen on the wrist of free-diving champion and eight-time world record holder Arnaud Jerald during his record-breaking dives.
Being the “Ultimate Edition,” yes, the large-and-in-charge RM 032 is limited to just 80 pieces, and pricing is set at an equally outsized CHF 210,000.
What We Think
In 2018, comment-section-regular BSide called an older iteration of the RM 032, “the Hummer of dive watches,” which I couldn’t have put better myself. I’ll take it one step further and say that this RM 032 is so gargantuan it borders on the grotesque. I can’t help but think of Ludacris and his giant arms in the 2004 video Get Back (see here for his comically large-sized arm and watch). The RM 032 also makes this year’s yellow gold Rolex DeepSea release look skinny in comparison (44mm x 17.7mm for reference).
I have a soft spot for large, obnoxious early 2000s watches, in case you needed reminding! An early Big Bang, Offshore, 5 Time zone is unapologetically my jam. Aesthetically, this RM 032 is slightly less alluring to me than, say, an RM Stallone or AP RO Offshore Survivor. The design of the RM 032 has fewer frills than the RM watches, which makes me a little giddy (see the RM Bonbon collection and RM 88 Smiley for reference). Sure, this watch has technical credentials, but chances are the watch graces the wrists of those who prefer a sailing spot over a dive.
What we cannot ever put RM down for is its truly singular brand identity. Despite the use of a traditional circular shape (because it’s a dive watch duh), over more commonly used tonneau shape, it’s unmistakably Richard Mille. The material, the typography, the unabashedly loud aesthetic. Let’s just address the 50mm elephant in the room here. Is a round RM even an RM? I would argue yes.
The Basics
Brand: Richard Mille
Model: RM 032
Diameter: 50mm
Thickness: 17.8mm
Case Material: grade 5 titanium and Carbon TPT
Dial Color: NA
Lume: Yes
Water Resistance: 300 meters
Strap/Bracelet: Black and yellow rubber strap
The Movement
Caliber: RMAC2
Functions: • Hours, minutes, date, month, flyback chronograph with central minutes and seconds counters, 12-Hour counter, running indicator
Diameter: 39.15 mm
Power Reserve: 50 hours
Winding: Automatic
Frequency: 28,800 vph (4 Hz)
Jewels: 62
Pricing & Availability
Price: CHF 210,000
Limited Edition: Yes, limited edition of 80.
For more, click here.
Hodinkee
