PROVING CARBON’S METTLE

Elegance and endurance may seem like an oxymoron, but luxury watchmaker Richard Mille has it down pat. NTPT (North Thin Ply Technology) carbon, a signature feature of the Richard Mille men’s collection, lends watches optimal protection for the calibre. Now, this material has revealed its feminine side as well with the models RM 07-01 and RM 037, which boast gem-set NTPT carbon to ensure elegance as well. This Richard Mille exclusive creates a startling contrast between the sparkle of clear diamonds and the matt carbon contour at the slightest wrist movement. Of course, setting gemstones in NTPT carbon is a new adventure for the brand. Unlike gold that can be worked directly with tools to create the prongs that will hold the diamonds, the hardness and resistance of NTPT carbon requires special machines and equipment. Hand-polished prongs in red or white gold are produced separately and then inserted around the many bearings (0.25mm) that will hold as many as 250 diamonds in the case of the RM 037 Full Set model. Brains and brawn— now that’s a winning combination. Price on request; Available at brand boutiques