RM35-01 Rafael Nadal Signature

Description of the Watch

The Richard Mille RM 35‑01 Rafael Nadal is a tour de force in lightweight luxury sports watches. Celebrating the brand’s high-performance ethos and tennis legend Rafael Nadal, this 49.94×42×14.05 mm masterpiece features a skeleton dial, manual-winding RMUL3 movement, and a Carbon TPT® case synthesizing durability, comfort, and Swiss craftsmanship.

Overview

Unveiled in 2014 as part of Richard Mille’s iconic “Baby Nadal” line, the RM 35‑01 is the follow-up to the RM 027 tourbillon series. It delivers extreme shock resistance (up to 5,000 g) and weighs just ~50 g including strap performance-focused design that complements professional sport on court or off .

Design and Craftsmanship

The tonneau-shaped Carbon TPT® case is hand-milled into a woodgrain-like layered pattern, making each piece visually unique . Its skeletonized dial reveals the RMUL3 calibre, featuring a grade‑5 titanium baseplate with black PVD finish. A vibrant red crown and minute track echo Nadal’s Spanish heritage, while CNC-finished carbon ensures lightness and durability .

Movement and Performance

At its core is the manual-winding Caliber RMUL3, weighing only 4 g and fitted with a free-sprung balance running at 4 Hz (28,800 vph). It offers approximately 55 hours of power thanks to a double-barrel system. The movement, equipped with 24 jewels and suspended within a grade-5 titanium frame, endures shocks exceeding 5,000 g—an essential feature for Nadal’s intense gameplay .

Features and Complications

• Time-only display (hours, minutes, seconds)

• Skeleton dial for movement visibility

• Exceptional shock resistance (tested to 5,000 g)

• Carbon TPT® structure and PVD-treated titanium for strength

• Water resistance to 50 m

Specifications

Case

• Material: Carbon TPT®

• Dimensions: 49.94 × 42 mm

• Thickness: ~14.05 mm

• Screws: 20 spline-grade titanium

• Weight: ~50 g (with strap)

Dial

• Type: Skeletonized with grade‑5 titanium movement frame

• Markers: Minimalist dots on flange

• Hands: Skeleton, lumed tips

• Highlight: “RM 35‑01 RAFA” branding and colored minute track

Bracelet/Strap

• Material: Black nylon or rubber strap

• Closure: Velcro or folding clasp (depending on release)

• Comfort: Ultra-light, secure fit for athletic use

Movement

• Caliber: RMUL3 (manual-wind)

• Jewels: 24

• Frequency: 28,800 vph (4 Hz)

• Power Reserve: ~55 hours via twin barrels

• Innovation: Grade‑5 titanium and PVD-coated, skeletonized movement