If Rafa Nadal’s return to the circuit is just around the corner (it will be at the Australian Open in January), there’s nothing left to wait for to admire the brand-new Richard Mille RM 35-03 Automatic Rafael Nadal, the watch inspired by the ones the Spanish champion has been wearing on the court for some time now. The RM 35-03 Automatic Rafael Nadal, the fourth piece in the exclusive collection, has an ace up its sleeve: the butterfly rotor. It took three years of development to bring this project to life, allowing the wearer of the new superwatch to interact directly with the rotor’s geometry. In simple terms, you can control the winding speed of the movement based on your lifestyle and activity level, making it a playful and practical life companion. Salvador Arbona, the technical director of Richard Mille, explains the innovation: “Imagine being behind the wheel and being able to switch from city driving to sports mode by activating the turbo mode.” Aesthetically speaking, the RM 35-03 is a work of art. Available in three versions – blue and white Quartz TPT®, Carbone TPT® and white Quartz TPT®, and Carbone TPT® – with cutouts inspired by the Tourbillon RM 27-04, it has a complete skeleton that can be admired from both sides thanks to sapphire crystals. The baseplate and titanium bridges accentuate the bold look. While the perforated hands sweep along the edge with the numbers 3, 6, 9, and 12 slanted inwards for extra depth. “Richard Mille and I speak the same language, we are passionate about our work,” says Rafa. “In our fields, we both seek excellence. Keeping the flame of passion alive is essential for me. It’s nice to feel part of this unique adventure (photo Rafa Nadal: Mathieu Cesar).” By Germano D’Acquisto