A DASH OF DELICACY
Asymmetrical geometrics, pastel primary colors, and mixes of possibilities shape the personality of these enigmatic, fun-filled, variations, a world away from conventions.
Design’s a serious matter in Italy. As the 1980s came around, a group founded by Ettore Sottsass decided to turn it on its head. The members of Memphis intended to mix artistic movements from around the globe and fashion. This desire was embodied in a never-seen-before use of colors and shapes based on basic materials. In a nutshell, creativity cast aside functionality, set itself free. The RM 07-01 Coloured Ceramics imagined by Richard Mille take their identity from these principles. “The Memphis Group fascinates with its diversity and freedom. Its founders wanted to break free from the restrictive structures of modernist styles, and they were trailblazers by embracing all sorts of materials in their creations. The idea at the heart of this collection’s creative process was in the juxtaposition of colors which varied based on the materials. We then adorned the dial with guilloché engraving, a centuries-old decorative technique. There was perfect symbiosis between the ultra-modern and traditional watchmaking”, explains Cécile Guenat, the brand’s Director of Creation and Development. On their dial, this trio of watches showcases fun-filled scenographies concocted with a wide array of geometric patterns. All are highlighted through the use of blush pink, lavender pink and powder blue TZP ceramic.
Inside the case, the selfwinding CRMA2 caliber drives the hour and minute hands accurately. This movement stands out with its variable-inertia balance wheel, its fast-rotating barrel and its variable-geometry rotor. Thanks to these components, the 50-hour power reserve is always finely-tuned. To break free from conventional codes, you have to master them.
