The RM 65-01 McLaren W1: A Fusion of Watchmaking and Supercar Engineering

The RM 65-01 McLaren W1 is the latest collaboration between luxury watchmaker Richard Mille and British automotive powerhouse McLaren. Unveiled days after the announcement of the McLaren W1, this limited-edition timepiece represents the fourth creation born out of the partnership between these two brands.

Inspired by the McLaren W1 supercar, the RM 65-01 McLaren W1 mirrors its automotive counterpart's precision, performance, and innovation. Designed to reflect the engineering feats of McLaren's supercars, this watch offers a high-performance automatic chronograph and showcases the shared values of passion and innovation.

The RM 65-01 McLaren W1 is powered by the RMAC4 automatic chronograph movement, which operates at an impressive frequency of 5Hz (36,000 vibrations per hour). This high-speed movement allows the split-seconds chronograph to accurately measure time down to one-tenth of a second.

Additionally, the movement is designed with a vertical clutch and six-column wheels, ensuring that the chronograph's activation is smooth and precise.

High-Performance Features

One of the most innovative features of the timepiece is its rapid winding system, which allows the watch's 60-hour power reserve to be fully recharged quickly. In addition to this, the movement is placed on chassis mounting rubbers to ensure that it's well-protected and robust enough for daily use.

Being a true driver's watch, it offers precision timing with an added function selector crown that allows the wearer to choose between winding, date-setting, and hand-setting functions. The crown is crafted from grade 5 titanium with rubber coatings and features the iconic McLaren ' Speedmark.'

Bespoke Design Inspired by the McLaren W1

The 43.84 x 49.94 x 16.19 mm case of the RM 65-01 McLaren W1 is made from Carbon TPT®, a material chosen for its strength and lightness. The case design draws direct inspiration from the shape and lines of the McLaren W1 supercar, with the double bezel reflecting the compact, muscular appearance of the car.

This bezel was one of the most technically challenging aspects of the watch's creation, requiring nine months of development and multiple prototypes to perfect. The bezel's thinness, just five-tenths of a millimeter at its narrowest point, marks a new achievement in Richard Mille's watchmaking.

Adding to the bespoke design, the titanium dial of the watch is skeletonized, evoking the patterns of the McLaren W1's wheel rims. The bold use of McLaren papaya orange accents across the watch—including the push-pieces, rapid winding button, and rubber strap—further emphasizes the connection to McLaren's motorsport heritage.

A True Driver's Watch

Just as the McLaren W1 supercar is built for the ultimate driving experience, the RM 65-01 McLaren W1 is designed as the ultimate driver's watch. The watch's ergonomic design allows for ease of use, with push-pieces that are shaped to mimic the cut-outs of lightweight seats found in supercars.

These push-pieces are mounted on titanium frames, further demonstrating the high level of craftsmanship and attention to detail. With its aerodynamic design, the rubber strap mirrors the angles and patterns seen on the McLaren W1's engine covers and ground-effect spoilers.

The sapphire crystal case back reveals the intricate movement and finishing. The movement's grade 5 titanium baseplate is treated with grey electroplasma, and the black PVD-treated bridges showcase Richard Mille's fusion of functionality and aesthetics.

Only 500 units will be made and if you want one, it'll set you back a cool $274,000 before taxes.