Richard Mille RM055 NTPT Carbon Fiber by

Quick Questions

What makes the Richard Mille RM055 NTPT carbon fiber clone from APS Factory stand out?
How does the Dandong RMUL2 movement compare to the genuine caliber?
Is the APS RM055 V2 worth its price for replica watch enthusiasts?
Where can you find a reliable RM055 carbon fiber super clone in 2026?
What details set the APS RM055 apart from other replica versions?

The Richard Mille RM055, a timepiece associated with professional golfer Bubba Watson, has long been a symbol of avant-garde luxury and technical prowess. Its unique barrel-shaped case, crafted from cutting-edge materials, commands astronomical prices in the genuine market. For those who admire its design but balk at the cost, the APS Factory has introduced a V2 upgraded that aims to bridge the gap between aspiration and accessibility. This review dissects the key features of this, focusing on its movement, case, and overall build quality.

Movement: The Heart of the Matter

At the core of the APS RM055 lies the Dandong RMUL2 integrated manual-winding movement, a significant step up from the generic movements found in lesser collectibles. This movement mirrors the skeletonized architecture of the original, featuring a heart-shaped mainplate that is a hallmark of the genuine RM055. The balance wheel operates at 28,800 vibrations per hour, ensuring smooth timekeeping, and the power reserve extends to approximately 70 hours, which is practical for daily wear.

Unlike common that use a standard movement with a decorative cover plate, the Dandong RMUL2 is a purpose-built caliber. All gears are functional and visible through the open-worked dial, offering a satisfying mechanical spectacle when winding or setting the time. The attention to detail, including the placement of jewels and shock absorbers, achieves a reported 95% visual similarity to the authentic movement, making it a delight for discerning enthusiasts.

Case Construction: NTPT Carbon Fiber Excellence

The case of the APS RM055 is a masterpiece of material engineering. It utilizes imported NTPT carbon fiber, a composite known for its exceptional strength-to-weight ratio and distinctive wave-like pattern. When exposed to light, the case exhibits a subtle metallic shimmer, replicating the aesthetic of the genuine article. The V2 version faithfully reproduces the original's 'sandwich' structure, with the middle case and caseback constructed from grade 5 titanium, ensuring robustness without excessive weight.

All visible and hidden metal components, including screws and the crown, are crafted from titanium and finished in a dark gray electroplating. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also ensures durability and resistance to corrosion. The result is a watch that feels substantial yet lightweight, comfortable for prolonged wear—a critical factor for a sports-oriented timepiece.

Crystal and Dial: Transparency and Legibility

The highly curved sapphire crystal is a signature of Richard Mille, and the APS Factory has invested in a high-curvature sapphire with double-sided anti-reflective coating. This treatment minimizes reflections, making the dial appear almost glassless and enhancing readability from various angles. The sapphire's hardness (Mohs 9) provides excellent scratch resistance, while the precise assembly ensures water resistance.

The dial itself is skeletonized, with black numerals and markers contrasting sharply against the white flange. The lume application is even and generous, ensuring visibility in low-light conditions. The three-dimensional printing of the numerals adds depth, and the overall finish is crisp and clean, matching the standards of collectible.

Strap and Clasp: Comfort and Durability

Comfort is paramount for a watch like this, and the APS RM055 does not disappoint. It comes fitted with a natural fluoroelastomer (FKM) rubber strap, which is more resistant to heat, chemicals, and aging compared to standard rubber. The strap is molded as a single piece, with no visible seams or imperfections, and it conforms comfortably to the wrist. The titanium buckle, featuring the brand logo, is sturdy and functional, with all screws being genuine and removable—a rarity in collectibles.

The clasp mechanism incorporates a titanium spring leaf, which offers better flexibility and longevity than steel counterparts. This ensures that the clasp remains secure even after repeated use, a testament to the factory's commitment to quality.

Screw Details: The Devil is in the Details

Richard Mille's iconic spline screws are a defining feature, and the APS Factory has replicated them with precision. All screws, whether on the case or bracelet, are made of titanium and are fully functional, not merely decorative. This attention to detail ensures that the watch can be serviced and adjusted, just like the genuine piece. In contrast, many lower-tier collectibles use steel or plastic screws that may rust or strip, compromising both aesthetics and functionality.

This meticulous approach extends to the overall assembly, where every component is fitted with care, resulting in a cohesive and reliable timepiece.

Comparative Overview: APS V2 vs. Common Replicas

To appreciate the superiority of the APS V2, consider the following comparison:

Movement: APS V2 uses a Dandong RMUL2 integrated movement with heart-shaped bridge and 70-hour reserve; common replicas use generic movements with cover plates, often with poor stability.
Case: APS V2 features imported NTPT carbon fiber with metallic luster; common replicas use ordinary carbon fiber or plastic, which appears dull and lacks texture.
Metal Parts: APS V2 employs full titanium construction, including screws and springs; common replicas use stainless steel or alloy, adding weight and reducing quality.
Crystal: APS V2 includes high-curvature sapphire with dual-sided coating; common replicas may use flat sapphire or none, causing reflection.
Strap: APS V2 uses natural FKM rubber, one-piece molded, soft and durable; common replicas use standard rubber that hardens and cracks.
Clasp: APS V2 has titanium spring leaf, real screws, and crisp engraving; common replicas have steel springs that weaken and fake screws.

In summary, the APS Factory RM055 V2 is not just a superficial copy but a thoughtful recreation that honors the original's engineering and aesthetics. It offers an exceptional opportunity to own a piece of Richard Mille's innovative spirit without the exorbitant price tag. For those who appreciate fine mechanics and bold design, this stands as a benchmark in the world.