The RM 47 Tourbillon explores Bushido – the moral code of the samurai whose values still dominate Japanese society today – through a favorite historical moment in the 18th century when 47 ronin set out to avenge the death of their leader, Nagamori Asano, and then followed him into the afterlife. The idea for the theme came from a conversation between Richard Mille and Fernando Alonso, the Formula One world champion, who was passionate about traditional Japanese art and samurai principles. 
Instead of dedicating space to the movement, the replica watch offers its case to a hand-engraved miniature armor in 18ct gold. It took 16 hours to engrave the 11 parts that make up the samurai and another 9 hours to paint them. The tiniest details were included, such as the expression on the mask, which had to convey the samurai’s warrior spirit.
An actual work of art is the hand-wound tourbillon featuring the Asano family, which initially came from Hiroshima and is said to symbolize the spirit of Bushido.
Each samurai clan had its Kamon – a family symbol- worn in battle on clothing, sabers, and flags. The bird was considered a symbol of strength in war.
The crown, made of titanium, carbon TPT and polished gold, has a Japanese maple leaf. A symbol of beauty, elegance, and the brevity of life, it is the autumn equivalent of the cherry blossom, a symbol of rebirth in spring. Every November, the maple leaf changes color, breaks away from the branches and falls gyroscopic.
The skeleton base and bridges are grade 5 titanium, a highly corrosion-resistant alloy that allows the gear system to function correctly. This alloy comprises 90% titanium, 6% aluminum, and 4% vanadium, which enhances its mechanical properties and explains its frequent use in the aerospace and automotive industries.
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