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Bell & Ross Takes Its BR 05 Collection into Urban Terrain
By Mark Jessen - Sponsored Published: , Last Updated:
Having mastered the skies time and again, watchmaker Bell & Ross is now taking to the city streets. Already synonymous with the world’s best aviation watches, the brand is expanding upon their BR 05 collection by way of two new chronograph models. Despite some advancements, both additions stay completely true to the watchmaker’s unique design language. That means you can still expect the iconic combination of round and square, along with graceful line continuity, flat satin-polished surfaces, and uber-precise timekeeping. It is Bell & Ross, after all.
With the new chronograph function comes an enriched sense of functionality. By measuring time in smaller increments, the piece keeps deft pace with the rhythm of urban life. Like so much of the brand’s output, it also makes powerful statements through stunning architectural gestures. The pushers, crown-guard, and crown form a single piece that flows seamlessly into the case, thereby maximising the robust aesthetic. The square 42mm case of polished steel likewise emits a sense of fortitude, bearing its screws as it surrounds the circular dial in a protective manner.
Along similarly fortitudinous lines, the watch case and bracelet are fused into one cohesive piece. This particular technique dates as far back as the 1970s and remains essential to Bell & Ross’ identity. Not only does it render a bold impression, but the angle of the bracelet attachment follows the contours of the wrist to ensure a better fit. While visually discernible, it’s something you can feel in the form of improved ergonomics. As an equally comfortable and stylish alternative, the brand also offers a blue or black rubber strap.
In the spirit of its skybound predecessors, each BR 05 Chrono delivers prime legibility through a streamlined dial layout. Nearly symmetrical (if not for the subtle date window), the signature display incorporates clever retro elements without losing its contemporary touch. For example, the unique rounded square shape of the two snailed counters pays tribute to 1970s models. The combination of applique numerals and minimalist indices makes for another excellent design choice. All the major markers are filled with Super-LumiNova, as are the metal skeletonised hour and minute hands. It’s all set against a respective backdrop of either navy blue or jet black.
Awash with neo-retro details perhaps, but the new BR 05 Chrono is still a modern beast. Crystal sapphire with anti-reflective coating ensures durability and readability in equal measure. Then we have in-house calibre BR-CAL.301, a chronograph movement engineered to capture the pace of urban life. Indeed, most city-dwellers want to master the fleeting nature of time and so too does the watch’s mechanical complication, which measures and controls short time periods. Putting functionality aside, each model makes for an indisputable eye-catcher across a full host of environments.
Between its updated performance, fluid construction, and seamless dial face, the new BR 05 Chrono is a masterpiece of detail, power, and precision. It’s also a sporty stunner that accommodates the urban lifestyle with absolute success. No matter what the ensemble or occasion, this timepiece delivers extreme durability and no shortage of distinction. Choose between black steel and blue steel models with either a matching rubber strap or satin-finished and polished steel bracelet. Put it on and head outside because these watches are too potent to stay home.
