The Richard Mille RM036 Tourbillon G-Sensor Limited Edition Jean Todt

Richard Mille is never one to shy away from the extreme. And with the new RM036 Tourbillon G-Sensor Limited Edition Jean Todt, he is staying true to form but with a new complication. In addition to the lightweight architecture and large tourbillon that you're no doubt familiar with, Mr. Mille has added a G-Force sensor to the RM036.
The RM036 starts with the thick (16.15mm to be precise) tonneau shaped case that Richard Mille is known for, this time crafted from lightweight titanium. Inside is a skeletonized carbon nano fiber baseplate, grade 5 titanium bridges, rigidified arcap central bridge, and the usual Richard Mille spline screws holding everything together. The idea here is to maximize rigidity and longevity of performance, even under harsh conditions.




Beyond this architecture, the RM036 is still a tourbillon. The tourbillon has a free spung variable inertia balance, which helps the watch maintain accuracy after suffering shocks, and the barrel is both fast-rotating and has progressive recoil, making the force delivered more constant over time.
But the centerpiece of the RM036 is the G-Force recorder, the first in a Richard Mille watch. In the event of rapid deceleration, the amount of G-Force experienced by the wearer is displayed at 12 o'clock. The scale is graded from green to red, alerting the wearer as to whether or not the amount of force is safe for the human body. Presumably if the needle flies into the red zone you won't be checking your watch, but it is a cool complication nonetheless. To reset the meter at any time, you just pump the push-piece at 9 o'clock.




The crown at 3 o'clock also has a push-piece in the center, which allows you to select winding, neutral, and hand-setting modes. At 4 o'clock there is a small display marked W N H, so you never have to wonder which mode you're in. A simple push and the needle jumps to the next mode. Additionally, the module for setting the time is actually located behind the rest of the movement, making repairs easier and less invasive should they be needed. Very cool idea.
The RM036 will be produced in a limited edition of 15 pieces. Both pricing and availability will be finalized at SIHH in January, so stay tuned for details.