Collection Gift Guide: Parallel Twin Racer for the Wrist
December 1, 2006
The French watchmaker BRM (Bernard Richards Manufacture) produces exotic
timepieces from the Val-d’Oise region, not far from Paris. To the seasoned Formula One
enthusiast, BRM also means British Racing Motors, whose black P578 the late Graham Hill piloted to
the 1962 World Championship. That was before Richards’ time, but his watches confirm the way
racing components inspire him—the MT automatic chronograph has been dubbed “the
ultimate engine block for the wrist.”
Even these remarkable creations are surpassed by Richards’ new
limited-edition Birotor, priced at around $62,725. The name indicates the parallel rotors at 6 and 12
o’clock for automatic winding; the upper one turns faster and is more sensitive to slight
motion. Ceramic ball bearings eliminate the need for oil lubrication, and their
differential action mandates consistency and guards against physical jolts. In all, seven arms
with heavy tantalum bob weights (in red) are employed. Each round weight has an aluminum
core to improve balance. The movement features a 50-hour power reserve and the watch
is water resistant to 100 feet.
Richards clearly finds mechanical processes beautiful, because the
case—available in titanium or rose gold—aims for unusual transparency, with windows in the side
of the case as an option. The movement couples to a four-prong suspension anchored by what
look like miniature auto shocks, their carbon-fiber coils shining in red. This color
motif extends to the hands, in circles and arrow points. For comfort, the stem on this
rectangular instrument has been placed at 2 o’clock, and incorporates a rotary mechanism for setting
time and winding. Notable are the three-position case lugs, supplied with an
accompanying tool, that allow for perfect adjustment for each wearer’s wrist. All hardware is
designed and fabricated at BRM, down to the trademark strap buckle with 12 parts.
Customers should expect a waiting list, though. “We are doing something completely different here,”
Richards says, “and it takes time.”
BRM, 214.231.0144, www.brm-manufacture.com
available
at King Jewelers, 305.935.4900, or Chatel, 831.626.3445
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