Each of Richard Mille's new RM HJ-02 In-House Automatic Tourbillon watches is adorned with a staggering 1,399 precious and ornamental stones. This extensive gem-setting transforms each of the 12 unique timepieces into a true spectacle of light and luxury, according to Robb Report.
For years, Richard Mille built its reputation on technically advanced, often sporty timepieces. Yet, these new high jewelry watches for 2026 mark a bold shift, emphasizing extreme gem-setting while still housing complex in-house automatic tourbillon movements.
Therefore, Richard Mille appears to be further cementing its niche at the intersection of avant-garde horology and unparalleled gem-setting, appealing to ultra-high-net-worth collectors who demand both technical mastery and extravagant aesthetics.
The Collection's Exquisite Details and Technical Prowess
The RM HJ-02 In-House Automatic Tourbillon collection presents 12 unique timepieces, each a vibrant symphony of color. Organized into four chromatic universes—pink, violet, blue, and green (WorldTempus)—these watches are defined by specific gems: ruby, blue sapphire, purple sapphire, and emerald (Richard Mille). This meticulous curation elevates gem-setting to an art form, ensuring each piece is a distinct masterpiece.
Beyond their dazzling exterior, these watches are powered by Richard Mille's in-house automatic tourbillon calibre CRMT2, boasting a 50-hour power reserve and 23 jewels (Robb Report). The integration of 1,399 stones with such a sophisticated in-house movement isn't just luxury; it's a defiant statement. Richard Mille is redefining ultra-luxury, daring competitors to match this dual-axis extravagance or risk being seen as less innovative.
Redefining Luxury: Integrated Artistry and Engineering
The fusion of 1,399 precious stones with the newly developed in-house automatic tourbillon calibre CRMT2 isn't merely a design choice; it's a declaration. Richard Mille isn't just adorning watches; it's engineering a new category of 'hyper-luxury,' where extreme technicality and extreme artistry are inseparable pillars. This vision transcends mere opulence, positioning these 12 unique timepieces as collectible art, not just expensive accessories.
Strategic Horology: Maintaining Credibility Amidst Extravagance
Richard Mille’s decision to develop the new in-house automatic tourbillon, CRMT2, specifically for this high-jewelry collection is a masterstroke. It affirms a profound commitment to horological credibility, even as the brand dives deeper into intricate gem-setting. This integrated approach challenges the traditional separation of watchmaking and jewelry design, proving that extreme artistry can elevate, rather than overshadow, complex mechanical innovation.
What are the latest Richard Mille watch releases?
The RM HJ-02 In-House Automatic Tourbillon collection represents Richard Mille's latest high-jewelry release, featuring 12 unique timepieces for 2026. This collection is distinct from the earlier RM HJ-01 collection, which consists of four watches in white and red gold (Richard Mille).
Richard Mille's continued push to integrate high-jewelry design with complex horology, as exemplified by the RM HJ-02 collection, will likely compel the ultra-luxury market to re-evaluate what truly defines extravagance and innovation.
