Bell & Ross is a French watch manufacturer headed by designer Bruno Belamich. Started over 20 years ago, the brand was originally manufactured through German watch company Sinn.
Many of the Bell & Ross signature designs were reminiscent of aviation cockpit instruments.
“The aesthetic appeal of Bell & Ross is mirrored in their four design principles, namely optimal water resistance, highly accurate Swiss mechanical movements like the ETA Valjoux, clear visual indicators, such as those found on aircraft instrument panels, and special functions intended for specific uses.”
Although Bell & Ross is considered a luxury watch brand by many, the price is significantly less in most cases, averaging at about $4,500 per timepiece. The designer also only offers timepieces for men, making their marketing plan very targeted to a specific market.
One of the most popular Bell & Ross models released after their split with Sinn Manufacturer in 2003 is the Heritage released in May 2009. Costing approximately $3000, this watchface with vintage-inspired markers and hands truly taps into the appeal of 1940s era aviation timepieces and gives it a modern spin.
Bell and Ross Aviation BR01-94-T Titanium and Carbon Fiber Watch
The square case on a Bell & Ross wristwatch is their signature, being one of only 2 or 3 watchmakers that use this style regularly. The watch-faces usually come in either 42 mm or 46 mm size, giving buyers options on what they like best and what fits their wrist best.
The Bell & Ross focus this year was on the Aviation BR 01 Turn Coordinator released for Baselworld 2012. Inspired by aircraft cockpits, each part of the watch is ‘a reference in terms of legibility, reliability and performance.”
This watch was released as a limited edition part of a collection of 999 pieces.
Bell & Ross will continue to develop interesting, aviation inspired timepieces for fans and fashion aficionados.
Alexandra H for Raymond Lee Jewelers, premiere fine jewelry and luxury watch boutique and buyer.