When it comes to luxury timepieces, Richard Mille stands out as a brand that blends cutting-edge technology with futuristic design. Known for their bold, robust cases and engineering marvels, Richard Mille watches are often described as "racing machines for the wrist."
However, not all Richard Mille watches are built like tanks. In recent years, the brand introduced slimmer versions of their iconic models, giving collectors and enthusiasts more options depending on their style and comfort preferences.
But what exactly separates a normal Richard Mille from a slim Richard Mille? Let’s dive into it.
1. Case Thickness
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Normal Richard Mille watches — like the RM 011 or RM 035 — are known for their substantial presence. Case thicknesses can range anywhere from 12mm to over 16mm, depending on the complication inside. These watches are designed to feel hefty and ultra-technical.
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Slim Richard Mille models — such as the RM 67-01 or RM 016 — dramatically cut down on thickness. Some slim models have cases measuring just 7mm to 8mm thick. That’s nearly half the thickness of a standard RM, making them much more discreet on the wrist.
2. Wearing Comfort
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A normal Richard Mille offers a bold, statement-making wear. It’s meant to be seen — and felt. While surprisingly lightweight (thanks to materials like titanium and carbon TPT), the larger case size might not slide easily under a shirt cuff.
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A slim Richard Mille is designed for comfort and versatility. It's much easier to wear with formal attire, and its lower profile hugs the wrist better, making it ideal for everyday wear without sacrificing the futuristic RM design DNA.
3. Movement Design
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The movements inside traditional Richard Milles are often highly complex — think chronographs, tourbillons, and split-seconds counters — leading to larger case sizes to house all those components.
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In contrast, slim Richard Milles use ultra-thin movements. For example, the RM 67-01 features an ultra-thin automatic movement with a micro-rotor. These slimmed-down movements require incredible watchmaking expertise to maintain performance while shaving off millimeters.
4. Aesthetic and Target Audience
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Normal Richard Mille watches tend to be sportier, often associated with athletes like Rafael Nadal and sprinters like Yohan Blake. They’re built to withstand shocks, speed, and impact.
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Slim Richard Milles have a more elegant, refined look, targeting collectors who want the RM style without the massive wrist presence. They're perfect for business settings, formal events, or collectors who simply prefer sleeker silhouettes.
5. Price Point
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Both normal and slim Richard Mille models are extremely expensive, but the ultra-thin pieces can sometimes command a premium because ultra-thin movement technology is incredibly difficult and costly to manufacture.
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In some cases, rare slim models like the RM 67-02 (especially in limited colorways) are even more collectible than some of their thicker counterparts.
Final Thoughts
Whether you prefer the bold and rugged look of a traditional Richard Mille or the sleek, understated elegance of a slim model really comes down to personal taste.
Both versions represent the brand’s obsession with materials, craftsmanship, and futuristic engineering. But if you want something that offers the unmistakable Richard Mille flair with more comfort and wearability, a slim RM could be the perfect choice.
Either way — once you strap a Richard Mille on your wrist, slim or standard — it’s hard to go back to anything else.