When it comes to watches, there are countless factors that contribute towards a brand being cool. Whether it be brand history, iconic case shapes, great dial textures, choice of materials, or the brand’s constant desire to push boundaries and not settle for the norm, it’s safe to say that it takes something special out of a brand to transition from being just good, to having an identity of their own and one day, to have their pieces be called icons. Like how a Porsche 911 has its iconic body structure, a square and utilitarian watch instantly comes to mind when talking about Bell & Ross.
Speaking of square and utilitarian watches, the BR03 lineup consisting of a classic 3 hander (BR03 Auto), a GMT, a diver and a chronograph best represents the aforementioned words. However, with its classic and bold design, it might be a little intimidating for some first time buyers of the brand. That brings me to talk about a line that was launched in 2019 by Bell & Ross, the BR05 collection. First off, big props to the brand for venturing into something that’s different from their existing lineup while sticking to their philosophy of what a Bell & Ross timepiece should be. Because let’s be honest, doing a steel sports model with an integrated bracelet comes with its negatives. I mean, with the number of icons in this segment, it takes courage to get into the space, let alone setting your design apart from others and having a strong identity.
The BR05 collection today has grown into a line consisting of the classic 3 hander (BR05 Auto), a GMT, a chronograph and to add a little spice, the BR-X5 which comes with a cool power reserve indicator and date window. Considering the number of options available in this collection over a span of only 4 years, very impressive. But other than just being something new that appeals to a younger and wider audience, the BR05 collection is in my eyes the perfect entry into the brand if you’re someone who admires their design philosophy but can’t seem to picture yourself buying something from the BR03 line. Taking cars as reference, the BR05 stands as the modern-day Land Rover Defender and the BR03 being the classic variant. While still taking both practicality and function into consideration, modern-day design elements are applied to make the BR05 case a refined all-rounder.
Speaking of design philosophy and the guiding principles behind every Bell & Ross timepiece, the BR05 checks a lot of boxes. First, legibility. Across the line, this principle is best reflected through how easy it is to tell the time at a glance. From the large numerals used on the BR05 Auto, GMT and chronograph, to the double width index at 12 o’clock on the BR-X5, visibility is great. Next up, functionality. Other than being good looking, these watches still execute their tasks as timepieces well. Besides having both GMT and chronograph variants, having the option of going with a stainless steel case and being able to choose your strap combination increases the practicality of the collection. Further comparing the looks aspect, the BR05 case still draws inspiration from the look of a gauge on an aircraft cockpit by having a round dial within a square case.
All in all, the BR05 collection is well-rounded. It’s versatile, expressive and has a whole lot of Bell & Ross DNA. It checks a lot of boxes for someone looking to own a Bell & Ross that’s slightly toned down in terms of funkiness but still looks and feels like an art piece from the brand. And with the variations in terms of dial color, case materials, complications, and strap options, this is a surely collection worth taking note of.
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One response to “The Bell & Ross BR 05 Collection”
[…] Before jumping into the watch itself, it’s worth mentioning that the BR05 line started off in 2019 with a three-hander (the BR05 Auto). With it only being four years since, big-ups to the brand for coming up with such a diverse and versatile lineup over a considerably short period of time. More talk on that can be found on my previous write-up here. […]
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