Richard Mille Redefines The Universal Symbol Of Happiness With The RM 88 Automatic Tourbillon Smiley

By Adrienne Faurote September 30, 2022

Richard Mille is embracing the innate joy in the universal happiness symbol: the smile. This week, the brand released its new RM 88 Automatic Tourbillon Smiley, which houses a new in-house CRMT7 automatic tourbillon caliber and explores the intricate mechanics of a smile.

Photo Credit: Courtesy of Richard Mille

“The smile, universal and multivalent, is fundamental to our social interactions; an expression of our innate desire to connect with others. Like the little yellow face that appeared in 1972 in the pages of the French newspaper, France Soir, which rapidly went viral, the Smiley conveys positive energy. It is a symbol of communication that comes to life today in the effervescent world of the RM 88 Automatic Tourbillon Smiley,” notes Richard Mille in the press notes. A true tribute to the Smiley world, the new tourbillon — from the inside out — embodies the spirit of the smile.

Limited to just 50 pieces, the RM 88 Automatic Tourbillon Smiley teems with vibrant, cheerful elements. The dial features a blossoming flower, the sun’s warm rays, a delicious pineapple, a blooming cactus, a pink flamingo, and a brightly-colored rainbow, made with pristine craftsmanship and is a true labor of love.

Photo Credit: Courtesy of Richard Mille

Inside, the new highly technical CRMT7 caliber, a skeletonized automatic tourbillon movement with hour, minute, and function displays was developed in-house and took three years to perfect. Its bridges and micro-blasted baseplate are made of grade 5 titanium to ensure rigidity and flatness. The bridge of the explosive micro-blasted, beveled, and drawn-out tourbillon is graced with a complex double PVD coating in black and gold. This finish is replicated on the bridge at the back of the baseplate, accentuating its lightning bolt form.

Photo Credit: Courtesy of Richard Mille