While the brand has recently focused part of its collections on more urban models, or on F1-related collaborations, Bell & Ross is first and foremost a provider of military watches. Special forces and pilot squadrons have been the brand’s first supporters and these military roots are still the core inspiration behind its creations. It’s not surprising that military motifs and colours have appeared in past models, including camouflage. This year, just ahead of the winter season, Bell & Ross unveils the perfect watch for Arctic warfare… or for ski slopes. Meet the BR 03-92 White Camo.
Camouflage was first used by the army during WWI. Its purpose was to hide or disguise men or objects. Green, khaki, brown, black and grey are the most used colours. The matte treatment of these colours is a mandatory condition imposed by the military. Unsurprinslgy, Bell & Ross started to use the idea of stealth look of camouflage early in the collection, starting in 2007 with the Phantom, followed by the Commando in 2009 – both inspired by aeronautical instrumentation. In 2017, the brand pushed the concept even further with the BR 03-92 Black Camo and its grey camouflage dial. This year, the brand completes its collection with its direct descendant: the BR 03-92 White Camo.
Bell & Ross introduces another bold and unconventional piece – the kind of watch that won’t remain unnoticed… The case is made of matte black ceramic, still classically shaped with its “circle within a square” inspiration, and the four functional screws on each side to secure the case. Dimensions are identical too, with a 42mm x 42mm case. The caseback is sealed and the crown screws down, guaranteeing a 100m water-resistance. Inside the case is a reliable automatic movement, the calibre BR-CAL.302 (based on Sellita SW300-1).
The main novelty is to be seen on the dial. With its typical sandwich construction, with cut-out numerals and markers that reveal a lower plate with black Super-LumiNova, there can be no doubt about the military roots of this piece. Same goes for the black luminescent pilot-style hands. The upper plate of the dial has been decorated with a winter-themed camouflage pattern executed in white, grey and anthracite – classic colours for Alpine forces. The small “LTD” mention at 7.30 is another reference to old military watches. The display consists of central HMS and a date window on a white background.
The Bell & Ross BR 03-92 White Camo is delivered with two straps. First in a calfskin leather strap with the same camouflage pattern as the dial. If you want to tone down the watch for a more discreet look, an additional black rubber strap is also included. Both are fitted with a steel pin buckle coated in black PVD.
Availability & Price
The Bell & Ross BR 03-92 White Camo is a limited edition of 999 pieces. It is now available from retailers and on the brand’s online boutique here. It is priced at EUR 3,500.
More details at www.bellross.com.