Originally introduced in 2011 as a round, dressy-ish watch that was distinct from most other Richard Mille watches, the RM 33 has now been revamped and looks like, well, other Richard Mille watches. The new RM 33-02 is still round, but is aggressively styled and executed in a striking combination of materials.

Just as it is with Richard Mille’s better known tonneau-shaped watches, the RM 33-02 has an angular, notched bezel, while the case is a sandwich combining carbon composite and gold held together by large, visible screws. The bezel notches at six and 12 are continued onto the integrated rubber strap, which has a fin running down its length, accentuating the sporty look.

The bezel and back are made of Carbon TPT, a carbon composite made by North Thin Ply Technology (NTPT), a Swiss materials specialist that supplies the material for all of Richard Mille’s composite cases.

Layers of carbon fibre within the composite give it a distinctive, striped appearance that is now found on most Richard Mille watches. In between the carbon composite is a case middle in 18k red gold.

Also in red gold are the large Arabic numerals, which sit on a pair of black-coated titanium rings mounted on the base plate of the movement – necessary because the watch has no dial.

Despite the bold styling, the RM 33-02 is a relatively compact watch, measuring just 41.7mm in diameter, and a slim 8.8mm high.

That’s thanks in part to the extra-thin RMXP1 movement inside. It’s an automatic that’s just 2.6mm high. Like most Richard Mille movements, it is produced by Vaucher, but customised for Richard Mille and given open-worked, black-coated bridges, resulting in a monochromatic, technical look.

Key facts and price

Richard Mille RM 33-02

Diameter: 41.7mm
Height: 8.8mm
Material: Carbon TPT and red gold
Water resistance: 30m

Movement: RMXP1
Functions: Hours and minutes
Winding: Automatic

Frequency: 21,600 beats per hour (3Hz)
Power reserve: 45 hours

Strap: Rubber

Limited edition: 140 pieces
Availability: Richard Mille boutiques
Price: US$145,000

For more information, visit Richardmille.com.