Bell and Ross prove its hip to be square with the new BR 05 Chrono...
Bell & Ross are known for their modern timepieces which take inspiration from aircraft flight instruments. A lot of their pieces have the strong vibe of being precision instruments, and none more so that the BR 05 collection. These square watches all look as though they came straight out of a cockpit, and they temper this look through a clever use of integrated straps, and chamfered edges.
The BR05 Chronograph
The BR 05 Chronograph is Bell & Ross’ latest entry to their BR 05 collection. It’s designed as a sporty piece for those who live an “urban lifestyle.” Don’t be fooled by this bit of marketing jargon. The BR 05 Chrono has all the key features of a sporty chronograph. The watch naturally has a sapphire crystal and display case back. It’s also got 100m water-resistance, so you don’t need to worry about getting it wet. Also, the hands and markers of the BR 05 Chrono are filled with Super-LumiNova, so legibility in low light shouldn’t be an issue.
The BR O5C is available in either black or blue, and there’s the choice of either a steel bracelet or a rubber strap. Whilst it’s a limited choice of options, it does cover the main bases a customer will look for in terms of colour and strap options, and realistically the BR O5 Chrono’s design is most suited to these types of strap.
Specifications
Reference: BR 05C
Case width: 42mm
Movement: Calibre BR-CAL.301. Automatic mechanical.
Functions: Chronograph, date.
Case: Stainless steel.
Water-resistance: 100m
Crystal: Sapphire with anti-reflective coating.
Strap: Black rubber or stainless steel.
Price: £4,800 on rubber or £5,200 on the steel bracelet.
Availability: Available from Bell & Ross’ Website or any Authorized Dealer.
First thoughts
The BR 05 Chrono is a natural addition to the Bell & Ross line-up. Despite the case being square, Bell & Ross have done an excellent job of blending the lines of the case into the bracelet. What’s more, whilst mechanical chronographs tend to be quite thick, Bell & Ross seem to have done an equally good job of mitigating this. Their use of bevelled edges and in-steps in the case make the BR 05 Chrono look thinner than it really is.
The dial of the BR 05 Chrono is well-balanced and doesn’t look too cluttered. The addition of a date window at 4:30 looks somewhat out of place, but a date feature is a useful one.
I think the BR 05 Chrono looks equally at home on both the steel bracelet and the rubber strap. The former dresses the watch up, and the polished centre links are a nice touch of detailing. In contrast the rubber strap makes the BR 05 Chrono look casual and it looks to be a great weekend option. Overall, the BR 05 Chrono is a good choice of release from Bell & Ross. The watch is sure to find a market amongst those fans of the brand who’re after a chunkier chronograph.
For more information on the new BR 05, visit Bell & Ross' website here.
