RM 53-01 Tourbillon Pablo Mac Donough

Description of the Watch

The Richard Mille RM 53-01 Tourbillon Pablo Mac Donough is a groundbreaking timepiece that marries avant-garde engineering with the rugged demands of professional polo. Designed in collaboration with Argentine polo champion Pablo Mac Donough, this limited edition of 30 pieces showcases Richard Mille’s commitment to innovation, durability, and high-performance horology.

Overview

Unveiled at SIHH 2018, the RM 53-01 represents a fusion of resilience and sophistication. Its Carbon TPT® case and laminated sapphire crystal are engineered to withstand the intense shocks experienced during polo matches, while its suspended tourbillon movement exemplifies mechanical ingenuity.

Design and Craftsmanship

The tonneau-shaped case measures 49.94 mm x 44.50 mm, crafted from Carbon TPT®—a material known for its exceptional strength and unique layered appearance. The watch features a laminated sapphire crystal, a world-first in watchmaking, composed of two sapphire layers separated by a polyvinyl film to prevent shattering upon impact. The skeletonized dial reveals the intricate mechanics within, all secured by a vibrant blue rubber strap that adds a sporty flair.

Movement and Performance

At the heart of the RM 53-01 lies the manual-winding Caliber RM53-01, a tourbillon movement suspended by braided steel cables—a design inspired by suspension bridges. This innovative architecture allows the movement to absorb shocks up to 5,000 g’s, ensuring precision even under extreme conditions. The movement offers a power reserve of approximately 70 hours and operates at a frequency of 21,600 vibrations per hour.

Features and Complications

• Functions: Hours, minutes, tourbillon

• Shock Resistance: Engineered to withstand impacts up to 5,000 g’s

• Crystal: Laminated sapphire with anti-reflective and UV coatings

• Water Resistance: 50 meters

• Limited Edition: 30 pieces worldwide

Specifications

Case

• Material: Carbon TPT®

• Dimensions: 49.94 mm x 44.50 mm

• Thickness: 16.15 mm

• Crystal: Laminated sapphire

• Water Resistance: 50 meters

Dial

• Type: Skeletonized

• Features: Suspended tourbillon, luminous hands and hour markers

Strap

• Material: Blue rubber

• Clasp: Carbon TPT® folding clasp

Movement

• Caliber: RM53-01

• Type: Manual winding tourbillon

• Power Reserve: Approximately 70 hours

• Frequency: 21,600 vph (3 Hz)

• Shock Resistance: Up to 5,000 g’s