Richard Mille Wins Big With Yohan Blake
Source: Phil Walter / Getty Images Europe
Yohan Blake may not have been able to replicate the success he enjoyed in Jamaica a few months ago against his training partner and mentor, Usain Bolt, a.k.a the world’s fastest man, in last night’s 100m men’s final but he did emphatically announce his arrival on the Olympic stage. Nicknamed the Beast – for obvious reasons – the current world champion clocked an impressive time of 9.75 seconds to claim Silver in his first Olympic appearance.
Along for the blistering ride was a very cool looking Richard Mille tourbillon prototype strapped firmly to Blake’s right wrist. An impressive feat to be sure, and one it seems that not even one of the watchmaking’s industries best showmen could match – although his ambassador was in the race too.
Source: Richard Mille
The New RM 0??
Unfortunately not too much information is available about this new prototype as Olympic policy supposedly prevents Richard Mille from revealing anything, including their new ambassadors name, until 3 days after the closing ceremony. Unlike the details of the Olympic Opening Ceremony however, this had to be one of the worst kept secrets. The color scheme, coupled with the fact that RM made a point of saying the new ambassador would be a sprinter all but confirmed Blake new role (especially given that Bolt is already signed with Hublot). Plus he hasn’t been shy about wearing it in the lead up to the 100m final.
On first impressions the movement and dial design seem to share some similarities with Rafael Nadal’s RM 027 and you can bet it is just as light, if not lighter, however the brand has already announced that in 2013 the partnership will continue with the development of a new caliber. The case is white and contrasts nicely with the green flange and crown, whilst the index points and weight-saving Velcro strap have been finished in a nice bright yellow.
No word on pricing yet or availability, but based on previous collaborations you can expect production will be limited and RRP will be well into six figures.
The only thing missing from this photo is Bolt’s Hublot…
Source: Stu Forster/Getty Images Europe
The Final Word
Hats off to Richard Mille for not only recognizing the potential of Yohan Blake to become a global superstar but also for strapping something incredibly cool to his wrist. He may not be as outspoken as his rival and compatriot Usain Bolt (yet) but he is definitely on an upward trajectory and it is only a matter of time before he starts breaking some records of his own. And you can be sure that a Richard Mille tourbillon is going to be there every step of the way.
For more information please visit the official Richard Mille website: www.richardmille.com
Category: Watch News
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