Richard Mille's latest creation, the RM 33-03 Automatic, marries the sporty essence of their signature tonneau aesthetic with the timeless appeal of a circular case. As the successor of the RM 33-02, this timepiece introduces greater mechanical complexity while maintaining exceptional wearability. Available in full Grade 5 titanium or Carbon TPT with 5N red gold middle case and accents like the watch we are reviewing here, the RM 33-03 delivers Richard Mille's uncompromising standards in a surprisingly approachable 41.7 mm package that wears just perfectly.
Things to Know About the Watch
The RM 33-03's visual architecture reveals Richard Mille's obsession with three-dimensional design. A semi-instantaneous date display at 5 o'clock features a black PVD-treated titanium disc suspended above its crisp white aperture. More unusually for Richard Mille, a small seconds display at 6 o'clock adds both functional utility and mesmerizing movement to the dial, with mint-green accents.
The most striking element emerges from the 18K 5N red gold numerals mounted on rigid titanium rails that hover between the flange and the movement, creating extraordinary depth and dimensionality. This structural storytelling demands exceptionally thin components and surgical precision in execution.
Both variants showcase cutting-edge materials. The tripartite case, secured by titanium spline screws, combines a carbon TPT bezel and case back with a satin-brushed middle case in 5N red gold. The case measures 41.7 mm in diameter and 9.7 mm in thickness. The entire watch—case, movement, strap, and buckle—weighs a mere 73.4 grams, a figure that seems almost impossible given the technical complexity within and the use of 5N red gold for the middle case and clasp. Extremely light, it delivers remarkable lightness on the wrist while maintaining scratch resistance and visual appeal. The crown, in a combination of titanium and 5N red gold, is very unique in shape and resembles a torque wrench.
The Movement
At the heart of the RM 33-03 beats the newly developed RMXP3 calibre, an ultra-slim automatic movement measuring just 3.28 mm in thickness. This remarkable thinness is achieved through an ingenious off-centered monobloc micro-rotor crafted from solid platinum, a material choice that transcends mere luxury. The platinum's density and positioning create optimal winding efficiency while maintaining the movement's compact architecture, mounted on ceramic ball bearings for whisper-quiet bi-directional operation.
The movement's foundation rests upon a Grade 5 titanium baseplate enhanced with Titalyt treatment, an electroplasma oxidation process that transforms the metal's surface properties. Combined with black PVD-treated bridges, this construction achieves exceptional rigidity and surface flatness essential for consistent timekeeping. The variable-inertia balance operates at 21,600 vph with four adjustable micro-weights, allowing nuanced regulation without altering the hairspring's length. The power reserve delivers approximately 40 hours. The movement visible through the display case back is a real treat for the eyes.
On the Wrist & Price
On the wrist, the RM 33-03 Automatic wears incredibly well and with a featherlight presence. Without a doubt, it represents one of the brand's most wearable offerings. The lightness of this watch exemplifies Richard Mille's mastery of advanced materials, where the marriage of 5N red gold and Carbon TPT achieves structural integrity without mass. The slim profile dramatically enhances wrist comfort, while the case's rounded contours ensure perfect skin contact.
The skeletonized calibre, visible from both sides, transforms the watch into a kinetic sculpture, revealing layers of technical artistry at every angle.
This watch represents Richard Mille's philosophy in its purest form: uncompromising engineering meets wearable luxury. For those seeking the brand's technical prowess in a package that balances everyday wearability with unmistakable presence, the RM 33-03 Carbon TPT 5N Red Gold delivers exceptional value within the Richard Mille universe.
Sticker Price CHF 145,000 Swiss Francs—approx USD 181,500. For more info on Richard Mille click here.
