RM 65-01 McLaren W1 Split-Seconds Chronograph is a true racing machine for the wrist

Richard Mille and McLaren both have in common the fire to strive for the pinnacle of innovation. Now the two brands have fused this ambition into an exquisite timepiece that signifies performance and aesthetic beauty. Meet the RM 65-01 McLaren W1 Split-Seconds Chronograph that carries both these attributes with a flair that’s worthy of a millionaire watch winder collection.

The watch is inspired by McLaren’s latest supercar, the W1 and it is the fourth timepiece created by the duo. The first one came in 2016, and the idea still seems as fresh as a teenager’s love affair. The RM 65-01 is not just about the premium feel of sporting it on your wrist, since it carries advanced features, a horologist will be proud of.

Designer: Richard Mille and McLaren

Richard Mille’s automatic winding chronograph gets the highest speed oscillation movement of 36,000 times per hour, and the ability to record the elapsed time down to one-tenth of a second. They’ve included the rapid winding system for a power reserve of 60 hours. RM 65-01 comes encased in a polished grade 5 titanium carbon case which emulates the bodywork details of the supercar such as the high waistline and anhedral doors. You will notice them at first instance, and instantly know that there is a McLaren story in there.

Going into the intricate details, the watch has an upper bezel measuring five-tenths of a millimeter thick, which technically makes it the thinnest ever from the Swiss brand. The similarities with the McLaren’s latest show stopper don’t end there as the skeletonized titanium dial and the crown are inspired by its wheel rims. Of course, the UK-based automotive company takes a lot of pride in its papaya shades, so we can see the subtle use of the hue on the watch face and the rubber strap. According to Richard Mille’s technical director for casing, this fourth watch in the series “left us with the feeling that Richard Mille and McLaren are perfectly in-tune” and we second that view.

Richard Mille is only going to sell a limited edition of 500 RM 65-01 timepieces each one having a mind-numbing price of approximately $274,000. Whether it’s a day at the track or a usual day at the office, this chronograph is the perfect match for your supercar.