By Kien Lee
Ffirst launched in 2019, the BR collection from Bell & Ross. In the new BR‑X5, the French Maison elevates the original integrated silhouette to its pinnacle, drawing from the strong DNA of the brand and presenting a new, sleek design that pairs sportiness with serious intrigue.
This new avant-garde model is distinct from its parent collection with its movement, and its functions which are displayed in the dial. Now, a large-aperture date window positioned at 3 o'clock and a circle-shaped power reserve indicator at 9 o'clock gives the BR-X5 a new face and its visual identity. The architecture of the multi-component case favors purity and radicality, lightness and resistance.
Measuring 41mm in diameter with an approachable thickness of 12.8mm, the BR-X5 features a sandwich type construction, with the multi layers visible from seen from the side. The hollowed-out architecture of the case middle reveals a technical construction that optimizes lightness without compromising on utility or water resistance. The different polished, satin-brushed and micro-blasted finishes throughout the case highlight the lines and surfaces of the design.
At the 3 o’clock position, a date window evoking the aeronautical DNA of Bell & Ross is featured, channeling the influence of analog flight instruments into this contemporarily oriented timepiece. At the 9 p'clock position, a 3-day power reserve indicator.
Inside, the Calibre BR-CAL.323, a 28-jewel movement runs at a smooth frequency of 28,000 alt/h. Incredibly dependable in its power reserve, the 28-jewel movement is furthermore incredibly precise in its timekeeping in part thanks to a variable-inertia balance wheel, with it maintaining a chronometer-grade spec via a COSC certification. The movement is also equipped with a rapid date correction device, which seamlessly allows for a quick date adjustment without any effect on running timekeeping.
The BR-X5 range is available in three colours, two steel versions and a third in carbon fiber. BR-X5 Black Steel and BR-X5 Ice Blue Steel are each available with a steel bracelet or a rubber strap.
The BR-X5 Carbon Orange brings added complexity to the multi-component construction of this model, with the inclusion of titanium DLC, carbon fibers and rubber. The black marbling of the carbon and the various touches of orange, gives the BR-X5 Carbon Orange a powerful, avant-garde and sporty look, which makes it more than just a watch but also a work of art.
This limited edition of 500 pieces is available on an orange rubber strap.