More Stealth From Bell & Ross
I can’t quite recall what I was up to in 2017, but for Bell & Ross, it was a landmark year. That year saw the debut of their distinctive circle-in-a-square dial design. Which has since become iconic for the brand and almost defined a new genre in watchmaking. Over the past seven years, there have been numerous iterations. Each is a nod to aviation but designed as divers with rotating bezels and 300 meters of water resistance. One of my personal favourites is the BR03 Black Matte Ceramic. Not only do these watches look exceptional on the wrist, but they are also as tough as nails.
The new lineup for 2024 features five models in total, each showcasing improvements in almost every area. Let’s take a closer look at these marvels of dive watch engineering.
As far as dimensions, go, there are no changes, still, the 42mm x 42mm case we knowingly recognise. The one I have in for review has the black matte ceramic case, super cool to the touch and very tactile. The new ceramic bezel insert offers a 60-minute time scale on a unidirectional bezel, with an added 15-minute scale for diving. Filled with white Super LumiNova, to match the hour markers and hands.
A discreet date window sits at 4.30, with redesigned larger indices and new arrow hour and minute hands, to make the super legible. They boast new typography too, but I can’t see any noticeable differences. With 300m of water resistance and a chunky screw-in signed crown, this watch is a joy to behold.
Discreet Power
The BR03 Black Matte Ceramic’s stealthy aesthetic and undeniable comfort make it ideal for extended wear. The sapphire crystal is coated with an anti-reflective layer on the underside, while the solid case back, fastened with four screws, enhances its durability. The ceramic bezel and insert, bold typeface and newly designed rubber strap give this timepiece a distinctive, high-performance edge.
A significant enhancement is the movement, now powered by the BR-CAL.302-1, based on the Sellita SW300-1, offering a 54-hour power reserve—an improvement of approximately 70% over its predecessor. With this new lineup, Bell & Ross continues to evolve and refine this iconic series of watches.
I regret selling my BR03 a few years back, but with these updated models, I feel it’s the perfect time to reintroduce Bell & Ross into my collection.
In conclusion, the Bell & Ross BR03 Black Matte Ceramic is a testament to the brand’s commitment to blending robust functionality with distinctive style. As a standout model in the iconic BR03 series, this watch not only pays homage to Bell & Ross’s aviation roots but also offers a modern design that caters to both professional divers and enthusiasts alike.
The watch’s impressive ceramic construction, bold dial, and upgraded movement make it a durable and reliable choice for those who appreciate high-performance timepieces. Its design is an exercise in precision and innovation, capturing the essence of what makes Bell & Ross a leader in the watchmaking industry.
The Coolness Of Ceramic
With the latest enhancements, including a more efficient movement and a refined aesthetic, the BR03 Black Matte Ceramic is a watch that promises to maintain its relevance and desirability for years to come. Whether you’re a collector or a first-time buyer, this model deserves a place in any serious watch collection. It’s more than just a timepiece; it’s a symbol of sophistication, endurance, and adventurous spirit. As the brand continues to evolve, this watch remains a solid testament to the timeless appeal and engineering excellence that Bell & Ross consistently delivers.
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