Launched in 2019, the Bell & Ross BR 05 is the Paris-based vision of how to implement classic luxury sports watch codes into the signature design of the brand. A rather successful mix of these two worlds, the model was first launched in time-and-date version, followed last year by a bolder chronograph. Additionally, the brand also offered a limited openworked model, first in grey for the 2019 collection, then blue for the 2020 collection. Following this strategy of yearly editions, the brand now launches the Bell & Ross BR 05 Skeleton NightLum, dressed in black with luminous green accents.
Not only does this new BR 05 Skeleton NightLum use the known elements of other existing models in this series, but it also relies on another important pillar for the brand: luminous watches. Know as the LUM collection, this series of watches gathers all the models with a focus on legibility, both day and night, with the use of strong luminous elements – such as the recently introduced Vintage Full Lum and its dial entirely coated in Super-LumiNova. Nothing that extreme for the BR 05 Skeleton NightLum, which mostly adds a touch of contrast to the previous grey and blue editions.
The basics remain the same. The 40mm case shows a classic “integrated” design, with the bracelet following the lines of the case. What makes it a real Bell & Ross watch is how these codes have been integrated within the brand’s DNA – the signature square case with 4 functional screws and a circular dial – a shape reminiscent of former onboard flight instruments. The case, entirely made of stainless steel, shows a pleasant succession of brushed surfaces and bright polished accents. It also wears quite compact and measures about 10.5mm in height.
As for the dial, the Bell & Ross BR 05 Skeleton NightLum relies on a semi-transparent dial made of tinted sapphire, on top of which are applied indexes, which seem to float above the dial’s surface. New to this NightLum edition, the movement, which remains partially visible underneath the crystal, has been entirely coated in black PVD. It retains geometric cut-outs revealing some of the mechanical elements, such as the balance wheel or the mainspring. With this new black coating, the contrast has been enhanced in daytime conditions and at night. Indeed, the hands and indexes are now covered with Super-LumiNova C5, known for its light green daytime colour and its superior bright fluorescent green glow at night.
Under the sapphire caseback is the calibre BR-CAL.322, which is an openworked version of the Sellita SW300. This automatic movement, running at 4Hz and boasting 42 hours of power reserve, is presented with a specific decoration, including matte black bridges and plates, as well as a black-coated 360-degree opened rotor.
The BR 05 Skeleton NightLum can be ordered both on a stainless steel bracelet, closed by a triple folding clasp with push buttons, or a textured rubber strap in black, closed by a folding clasp.
The Bell & Ross BR 05 Skeleton NightLum is a limited edition of 500 pieces, which can be pre-ordered now, with deliveries expected at the end of May 2021. It is priced at EUR 5,900 on a rubber strap and EUR 6,400 on a steel bracelet. For more details and orders, please visit www.bellross.com.