WORDS
Eleanor Pryor
Bell & Ross’s square watches may be inspired by flight instruments, but its latest addition to the BR 05 collection is altogether more grounded. Its new chronograph model is designed with the style-conscious urban adventurer in mind, incorporating this extra functionality while losing none of the legibility of the dial and DNA of the brand.
Much of its appeal is in the intriguing curves of the 42mm case, presented in the watchmaker’s trademark square-yet-round silhouette. Here satin-polished surfaces and polished bevels come together to lend a sculptural intrigue to the overall look. The same shape is applied to the chronograph counters, at 3 and 6 o’clock respectively, which – when paired with the pared-back design of the indices – add to the contemporary aesthetic.
One of the hallmarks of the BR 05 family is its integrated bracelet, which comes together with the case in one cohesive piece. Inspired by sport-chic watches from the 1970s, it has been given a modern Bell & Ross twist, with an angular design that comfortably wraps itself around the contours of the wrist. Even the pushers, crown guard and crown form a single piece, carefully incorporated into the watch to enhance its fluid lines.
The BR 05 Chrono is available in blue and black-dialled options, both of which can be paired with a matching rubber strap, offering a new dimension to the timepiece.