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Bell and Ross BR 05 Artline Streamlines the Iconic Square Diver
Bell and Ross really made a name for themselves with the BR 03. The iconic circle in a square design—inspired by cockpit instrumentation—successfully moved Bell and Ross up the line when it comes to high-end timepieces. The BR 05 is a derivative of that classic design, and it adds to the legacy, but that pedigree is continuing to surge forward, with the BR 05 Artline.
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Bell and Ross BR 05 Artline | Image: Bell & Ross
The Artline keeps the classic look of the BR 05, invoking the industrial design trend of the 1930s while adding a flair of artistic interpretation—an effort reflected in the name. “This name indicates that it incorporates an artistic dimension (art) in its design (line),” explains Bruno Belamich, one of the co-founders of Bell and Ross. “When you look at it, you immediately think of the American style of the Stream-Line.”
Additionally setting the watch apart is that despite its origins in military instruments, it still has the capacity of dressing up for a night out. “We wanted to launch a watch that is dressed, decorated,” adds Belamich. “The BR 05 had potential. Its case indeed offers a vast surface to decorate.” That decoration comes as gadroon, or relief engraving, and is found on the bezel. Additionally, gadroon is also featured on the centre links of the bracelet.
Bell and Ross BR 05 Artline | Image: Bell & Ross
This adornment harkens back to the military inspiration, as the first transport planes used in the 1940s had corrugated aluminium fuselages. Another source of inspiration for the watch is the use of aluminium in architecture. With such numerous and varied references being used, it seems likely that the Artline might suffer from a lack of identity, but it instead offers the perfect blend of all these ideas.
In the middle of it all is the sunburst ruthenium grey dial—a new shade for the BR 05. The colour contrasts with the case and blends well with the photo-luminescent super-luminova used on the hands and indexes. At 3 o’clock is a date window. The mechanics of the watch are powered by an in-house self-winding BR-CAL 321 calibre. Peering through the sapphire case back, you can see the oscillating weight. Bell and Ross is limiting the production of the BR 05 Artline to just 250 pieces, which they will be selling exclusively through Bell and Ross boutiques.
Bell and Ross BR 05 Artline | Image: Bell & Ross
Bell and Ross BR 05 Artline
Diameter: 40mm
Height: 10.5mm
Case: Satin-finished and polished steel
Movement: BR-CAL.321. Automatic mechanical.
Strap: Satin-finished and polished steel with striated links
Crystal: Sapphire
Water Resistance: 100M
Price: AUD$8,000
Bell and Ross BR 05 Artline | Image: Bell & Ross
Mr Mark Jessen
Mark Jessen studied English at Brigham Young University, completing a double emphasis in creative writing and professional writing/editing. After graduating, Mark went to work for a small publisher as their book editor. After a brief time as a freelance writer, Mark entered the corporate world as a copywriter. These days, his hours are spent mostly in proofing and editing, though he continues to create content for a wide variety of projects. In 2017, Mark completed UCLA's Creative Writing Certification. A prolific writer, Mark has over 20 years of experience in journalism.
