Most luxury watch organizations are proud of their long histories. But Bell & Ross is rather the opposite–just 24 years old, it’s done a fantastic deal in surprisingly little time.
In 1992, designer Bruno Belamich and entrepreneur Carlos Rosillo (Bell and Ross, respectively) set out to make their own line of watches that bridged the gap between a conventional tool watch along with a rugged military device.
Their first creation, the”Bell & Ross by Sinn,” was created by Sinn watches. In fact, many of Bell & Ross’s ancient watches were present Sinn watches–the 103 and Space 1 specifically –rebranded with the Bell & Ross logo.
As the company’s presence grew, Bell & Ross branched out with its line of Bell & Ross BR S Diamond Eagle Watches. The brand’s first major success was the Bell & Ross Bomb Disposal Type–a watch designed for usage by bomb team members of France’s elite GIGN specific operations department.
Later in the 1990s, Bell & Ross enlarged its range of remarkable tool watches with the Hydro Challenger: a quartz dive watch capable of descending to more than 11,100 meters beneath the surface of the ocean.
In 2002, Bell & Ross has been obtained by Chanel. Far from turning into a pure fashion manufacturer, Bell & Ross has stuck to its origins because its purchase, releasing eye catching tool watches like the Aviation BR-01 that have attracted enormous amounts of focus in the watchmaking world.
Today, the business follows four design principles: Bell & Ross watches feature exceptionally accurate mechanical motions, maximum water resistance, clear and legible visual signs, and special design purposes.
Notable Bell & Ross Watches
Aviation BR-01
Bell & Ross’s most identifiable watch–that the Aviation BR-01–was released in 2005. Inspired by the simple, highly legible design of aircraft navigational instruments, the BR-01 is a large opinion designed to be apparent in low light and other low-visibility environments.
Like other Bell & Ross models, the Aviation BR-01 blends a instrument watch’s design with a selection of material and finish choices. Its case is available in stainless steel, black coated steel, and also a massive selection of other substances. Unique casino, airborne, and gold ingot special editions are available.
Because it was initially released in 2005, other tool watches have grown bigger, possibly to match the BR-01’s large 42-46mm case dimension.
Marine Automatic BR-02
Bell & Ross created a name for itself in the late 1990s with its innovative quartz dive watches.
The Marine Automatic BR-02 is Bell & Ross’s contemporary dive watch. It is an upsized, automatic watch that mixes the role of its early quartz dive watches with the size and automatic motion of this iconic Aviation BR-01.
In various ways, the Marine Automatic BR-02 is equal portions a dip and aviation watch. Its 1,000m water resistance which makes it usable for the most intense dives, although the four large screws at its case and its own large, ultra-legible numerals echo the style of the Aviation BR-01.
Add in its unidirectional internal bezel, and also the BR-02 is an impressive watch that combines rugged design with each the features of a deep dive instrument watch. In 44mm in diameter, the BR-02 has an unbelievable amount of presence on the wrist, comparable to the more common BR-01.
Vintage BR
Although Bell & Ross is best known for its large, modern aviation and dive watches, it also supplies a selection of vintage-inspired watches. The Classic BR is Bell & Ross’s 1940s-inspired wristwatch–an homage to the avant-garde aviator watches worn by WWII pilots.
Launched at Baselworld 2010, the Classic collection has smaller dimensions than Bell & Ross’s beautifully large dip and aviation watches (41mm, instead of 44-46mm). The brand’s rugged design is toned down in favor of a look that is more mainstream, yet distinctly Bell & Ross.
The Classic BR collection is Made from two versions: the Classic BR Automatic and Vintage BR Chronograph.
To some, Bell & Ross’s short lifespan could make it a lesser brand compared to the many Bell & Ross BR 126 companies that boast lots of history. To the others, its focus on innovative watchmaking and its own distinct design philosophy make it a brand that anyone can enjoy. John Mayer called the BR126 Chronograph a”subdued, classic and trendy” watch that”broke the fantastic design barrier” as it was showcased at the 2013 Grand Prix d’Horlogerie de Genève.
Famous Bell & Ross fans include Joel McHale of Community, who has been spotted wearing a BR 02-94 Chronograph, and Zach Braff, who wears a BR-01.
Even though Bell & Ross might not have the history of additional Swiss watch manufacturers, its intriguing designs and focus on purpose make it one of the hottest watch businesses. If you are a fan of military-inspired styling, Bell & Ross’s distinctive, iconic watches could be for you.
