Superlative design meets topnotch functionality in Richard Mille’s fourth creation with McLaren.

Text: Abdul Aziz Draim. Images: Richard Mille.

RM 65-01 Automatic Split-Seconds Chronograph McLaren W1 watch by Richard Mille

If your heart beats for horology and motorsport, then behold the new RM 65-01 Automatic Split-Seconds Chronograph McLaren W1, from Richard Mille. Birthed from a partnership with British supercar giant, McLaren, this is a stunning embodiment of cutting-edge technology and audacious design.

The McLaren W1 supercar

The new timepiece is the fourth such creation resulting from this on-going partnership, since it began in 2016. The RM 65-01 Automatic Split-Seconds Chronograph McLaren W takes inspiration from the McLaren W1. The McLaren W1 is the envy-inducing successor to the McLaren F1 and P1—just two of the greatest supercars ever. Naturally, the watch mirrors the car’s high-performance features, from its sleek curves to its robust yet intricate “engine”. Both creations are the epitome of their makers’ joint goal: pushing performance boundaries powered by passion and human interaction.

The heart of the RM 65-01 McLaren W1 pulsates at an impressively high rate of 5Hz or 36,000 vibrations per hour, thanks to its RMAC4 automatic chronograph movement. It accurately records elapsed times to a tenth of a second, offering an unmatched precision. Yet, the true magic lies in its rapid winding system, enabling a full charge of its 60-hour power reserve in a snap. Perfect for those constantly on the move.

A GLAMOROUS STATEMENT

Echoing the innovative spirit of its car counterpart, this wrist luxury doesn’t compromise on durability. The robust 480-part movement is paired with a variable geometry winding rotor that adjusts to your lifestyle. So this watch is not just a glamorous accessory, it’s also a reliable everyday companion.

And glamorous it truly is. Much like its performance, the aesthetics are breathtaking. Embracing the art of detailing, the brand developed a dial design based on the McLaren’s wheel rim patterns. Accents of signature McLaren colours on the dial, hands and counters add to the dynamic character of the watch. Better still, it makes a classy yet avant-garde fashion statement when worn with the black rubber straps. Alternatively, for a sportier and bold look, the papaya orange strap does the trick.

The watch, and the car that inspired it.

But the beauty doesn’t stop there. The watch’s case mirrors the W1’s aerodynamic design, crafted from Carbon TPT®, showcasing an advanced engineering marvel. Its fine lines and curves reveal a depth that brings a new dimension to the timepiece. This adds a visual complexity that perfectly encapsulates the McLaren spirit.

A DRIVER’S COMPANION

This RM 65-01 McLaren W1 model goes beyond design and functionality—it’s a driver’s watch. A “function selector” gives you control at the spin of the crown, offering options for “Winding”, “Date”, or “Hand-Setting”. Drawing inspiration from McLaren’s drive shafts, the crown bears a partial rubber coating in McLaren’s signature papaya orange, enhancing grip and visibility.

So the RM 65-01 Automatic Split- Seconds Chronograph McLaren W1 is not just a watch, it’s a statement. A horological manifestation of Richard Mille and McLaren’s joint desire to break new ground. “Making this fourth watch in the series left us with the feeling that Richard Mille and McLaren are perfectly in-tune,” said Julien Boillat, casing technical director of Richard Mille. “We both work to the highest technical specifications with the most high-tech materials, ergonomics are as important to us as they are to them, and our design language really seems to have gelled. The interaction between our two teams and the partnership that it has created has, simply, become really strong.” 

AUDACIOUS & UNRIVALLED

This horological masterpiece is a testament to that synergistic relationship, a true triumph in luxury timekeeping. As the world of haute horology meets high performance automotive engineering, the RM 65-01 Automatic Split- Seconds Chronograph McLaren W1 by Richard Mille  stands as a beacon of their shared vision, a true embodiment of audacious design and unrivalled functionality.

RM 65-01 Automatic Split- Seconds Chronograph McLaren W1 watch, with black or orange strap, from Richard Mille