Skip to main content
  1. Home
  2. Fashion & Style

Bell & Ross BR-03, its flagship watch, updated for first time in almost 2 decades

A classic design gets a much-deserved update

By
BR 03 Military Ceramic watch Bell & Ross
Bell & Ross / Bell & Ross

In the realm of luxury watches, Bell & Ross holds a unique place. The brand is renowned for its meticulous craftsmanship and innovative designs, which have consistently pushed the boundaries of watchmaking. One of their most iconic watches, the Bell & Ross BR-03, recently underwent a significant update, marking a milestone in its nearly two-decade history.

Founded in 1992 by Bruno Belamich and Carlos A. Rosillo, Bell & Ross quickly gained recognition for its dedication to producing professional timepieces tailored to specific needs. Their watches are often inspired by aviation and military aesthetics, characterized by a perfect blend of form and function. Over the years, the Bell & Ross BR-03 has become a symbol of precision and reliability, earning its place among the finest luxury watches.

Recommended Videos

The timeless design of the BR 03

The Bell & Ross BR 03 has always been celebrated for its distinctive square case design, paying homage to cockpit instruments. Its robust and bold appearance sets it apart from traditional round watches, and the BR 03 has been a favorite among those who appreciate a timepiece that makes a statement. The signature square case, clear numerals, and luminescent hands make it not only aesthetically pleasing but also highly legible.

The evolution of the BR 03 Bell & Ross watch has brought significant enhancements to its design and operation. One notable change is the reduction in case size, transitioning from a 42mm case to a sleeker 41mm in the new BR 03 Automatic. This modification aligns with contemporary preferences for slightly smaller and more versatile timepieces while preserving the iconic square shape that characterizes Bell & Ross watches. Another significant improvement lies within the watch’s movement. While the previous model featured reliable automatic movement, the new version boasts a more refined and precise mechanism.

Black Matte BR 03 Bell & Ross watch
Bell & Ross / Bell & Ross

The Bell & Ross BR 03 comes in three colors

Powered by automatic movement, the BR 03 offers precise timekeeping while coming in an array of super sleek colors.

  1. Black Matte: The Matte Black variant of the BR 03 watch exudes a sense of stealth and sophistication. With a matte black case and matching dial, this version of the watch is often associated with a sleek and modern aesthetic. It’s a popular choice for those who appreciate a bold and understated look.
  2. Phantom: Similar to the Matte Black but with black numerals as well, this watch face exudes an air of mystery, giving off major Batman vibes.
  3. Military Ceramic: The Military Ceramic option features a green dial and strap reminiscent of military aesthetics. This color choice adds a touch of ruggedness and adventure to the watch, making it suitable for those who are drawn to outdoor activities and exploration.

Whether you’re a watch enthusiast or someone looking for a timepiece that blends utility and visual appeal, the BR 03 is a remarkable choice that combines contemporary design with a rich legacy of craftsmanship. What distinguishes the BR 03 is the unmistakable Bell & Ross DNA ingrained in every facet of its design. The rugged yet stylish exterior, legible dials, and robust build make it a preferred choice among individuals with a penchant for adventure. Whether you’re a globetrotter or an urban explorer, this watch is a reliable companion that ensures you’re punctual while exuding an air of unpredictability.

Learn More

Editors’ Recommendations

Topics
Sarah Veldman
Sarah Veldman
Freelance Writer
Sarah has been a freelance writer for over 7 years now, having started while she was living out of a suitcase and traveling…
MING drops a gorgeous blue dive watch but sticks to its core aesthetic
MING introduces a new dive watch to its lineup
MING 37.09 Bluefin watch

Having a MING watch can certainly be a conversation starter at a dinner party, and though it won't draw the same attention on the street as, say, a Rolex Daytona or the newest TAG Heuer, it's unique, and that counts for something. MING famously pushes the boundaries; for example, they debuted the "world's lightest watch" in October 2023. What they aren't known for is dive watches, so in sticking to their usual mission of surprising us all, that's exactly what they've made.
MING introduces the 37.09 Bluefin watch

MING has made two dive watches in the past: the 2019 18.01 Abyss Concept and the 2020 18.01 H41 Titanium. Now, they've introduced the 37.09 Bluefin, a watch that is so sleek it will show up next to that word in the dictionary. Looking at press photos for this watch as it's being put into the water is like eating peanut butter and jelly; it just fits.
Getting the "crush depth" just right
Another thing a MING watch is known for is being almost like a science experiment, and when the brand came up with the new 37.09 Bluefin it was revealed they made all kinds of small adjustments to get its "crush depth" just right. According to MING, they aimed to enhance the technical features of the H41 dive watch but were limited due to the exceptionally small 19mm case size. Rather than pushing ahead with a bigger watch, they prioritized the more slender appearance.

Read more
Jaeger-LeCoultre updates the Polaris line with new watches you’ll love
Jaeger-LeCoultre adds to Polaris Collection
Jaeger-LeCoultre Polaris Geographic

If you thought Jaeger-LeCoultre showed off everything in its arsenal at Watches and Wonders 2024, think again. Not long after debuting several Duomètre models, the brand has something else up its sleeve — expanding on the Polaris collection, which was first introduced in 2018 and took inspiration from its 1968 Memovox Polaris dive watch.

With summer just around the corner, we're all looking for a travel companion to accompany us on our trips. Traveling in the warmer months can mean all manner of things, from strolling the streets of Paris with a button-down and dress sneakers to mountain biking in the Alps on a rainy day in the mud; the perfect watch for traveling should be adaptable, not just for various hobbies but for sartorial purposes as well. Naturally, if you're hopping trains in Europe or driving a Jeep through the Outback, you'll want a watch that can tell you the time in multiple locations — but that's a given that any good watchmaker should keep in mind.
Jaeger-LeCoultre debuts the Polaris Geographic
Now, Jaeger-LeCoultre has debuted the Polaris Geographic and added two fresh color options to the current lineup. This new Polaris is not so cluttered, is easier to read than its past iterations, and is much sportier. It features the Caliber 939 movement, similar to the one seen in the 2020 Master Control Geographic, and comes with a 70-hour power reserve; not too shabby, right?

Read more
You’ll love Citizen’s new limited edition watches for its 100th anniversary
Citizen Layers of Time 100th anniversary collection
Citizen Layers of Time collection

This year marks the 100th anniversary of Citizen watches, and what better way to commemorate the momentous occasion than with a limited edition capsule collection? It's basically the cake and candles of the watch industry. The Japanese brand has unveiled five models that draw inspiration from the rocks and minerals that formed the Earth several million years ago in a geological evolution.
Citizen watches: The Layers of Time collection

Each of the 5 Citizen watches features an Eco-Drive solar mechanism, with transparent dials and a very noticeable special ink developed along with the Fujifilm Corporation that gives them a surprisingly extraterrestrial vibe despite the fact that they represent our own planet. The Layers of Time collection takes inspiration in its design from geological formations and the natural beauty of the Earth's layers, giving rise to the organic patterns and textures you would find in rocks, minerals, and fossils.
Citizen Attesa Layers of Time Eco-Drive Satellite Wave GPS CC4057-60E
The Citizen Attesa Layers of Time Eco-Drive Satellite Wave GPS CC4057-60E features a case and bracelet made from incredibly durable Super Titanium alloy, made even better with a black Duratect finish. It's one of the more beastly watches in the new collection as its case measures 44.6mm in diameter and 15.4mm in thickness, and it's water resistant up to 100 meters. This watch has a bezel adorned with a gradient finish, echoing the colors in the dial, and it's powered by the Caliber F950 Eco-Drive movement, famous for its self-sustaining capabilities in any light.

Read more