I have a mate called Warren who this year will celebrate his 80th birthday. This soon to be octogenarian is one of the most flamboyant characters I know. For example, his normal attire at the gym is fluorescent tops, accessorised with gold jewellery. A few days ago I visited his home and he was proud to show me his wardrobe. It mainly comprises tailor-made jackets in a variety of outrageous colours and tones. Interesting my friend also likes glitzy dress watches, which compliment his outfits. For that reason, I’m sure that he would really appreciate the aesthetic of the Richard Mille RM 38-02.
Over the last few years, brands within the luxury industry have really focused on celebrity or sports superstar collaborations. Even though I think using brand ambassadors to promote your products is very effective it also is artificial. Would Rafa Nadal or Bubba Watson actually go out and purchase these from a boutique if they were not sponsored? Maybe consumers don’t care as long as they see their favourite personalities sporting the watch. However, from an editorial point of view, the RM 38-02 makes great copy because it is exceptionally well designed timepiece.
The RM 38-02 is the fourth watch for brand ambassador Bubba Watson and in my opinion the boldest. Richard Mille has created a contemporary 43.70 x 50.04 x 15.95 mm case fabricated from pink and white Quartz TPT®. I love the strawberry and cream aesthetic but concede it might not appeal to everyone. However, as mentioned before the 50 limited pieces will sell because it linked to a famous pro golfer. Although it is pertinent to mention you’ll need exceptionally deep pockets because this piece will set you back a staggering CHF 900,000 (approximately $898,535) Other features include a multi-layered skeletonised dial with Carbon TPT® baseplate and titanium bridges.
Beneath the radical pink and white façade is a sophisticated manual winding tourbillon movement. The Calibre RM38-02 comprises 21-jewels and oscillates at a frequency of 21’600 vibrations per hour. This mechanism has a KIF Elastor KE 160 B28 shock absorber and Glucydur®. Functionally the RM 38-02 features hours, minutes and a tourbillon facility. The watch also has a power reserve of 70-hours and is water-resistant to depth of 50-metres. Therefore the timepiece isn’t suitable for extreme water sports but ideal for the golf course.
