Parisian-based watchmaker Bell & Ross joined Watches and Wonders for the first time this year, showcasing a breadth of new releases including the BR 03-92 Diver White Bronze. Channeling its signature round-within-a-square case aesthetic, the dive watch takes on new life in a bronze exterior. With an innate connection to the marine world, the less common case material assumes its identity with a unique patina surface highlighted by the white dial.
Assuming the familiar silhouette, the exterior is a rounded-edge square with a round bezel situated within it. With dimensions of 42mm by 42mm, each of the four corners of the square case is secured with a bronze screw. Opting for a bronze exterior, Bell & Ross is playing into the quality of the material that causes it to develop a patina with use, giving it a dynamic appearance that changes over time. Its tone is visually reminiscent of the classic fittings used on classic yachts and sailboats, further hinting at its aquatic identity. The unidirectional polished bronze bezel is made complete with a brown aluminum ring. On the reverse, the steel case back is engraved with an old-fashioned scuba helmet, completing the case, which is water resistant to 300 meters.
Softening the appearance of the robust bronze case is the opaline silver dial within it. Situated atop of the smooth, pearly background are applied rose-gold indices with luminescent inserts. The hour, minute, and seconds hands are all gold plated and sport a skeletonized design. All three hands, like the hour markers, are filled with Super-LimaNova® to ensure legibility even in low light conditions, like the depths of the ocean. Adding another layer of functionality to the watch, there is a small date window between the 4 and 5 o’clock hour markers that mimics the round shape of the indices.
Powering the new dive model is the automatic caliber BR-CAL.302. It is a commonly used mechanism for Bell & Ross, one that is based on the Sellita SW300-1 a. Offering a power reserve of 38 hours, the watch beats at a rate of 28,800 vibrations per hour (4 Hz).
The Bell & Ross BR 03-92 Diver White Bronze is available in a limited edition of 999 pieces with pricing marked at $4,700. It is presented on a brown calfskin leather and woven black rubber strap.
To learn more, visit Bell & Ross here.
