English
The origins of Bell & Ross, a watch manufacturer founded in Paris by Bruno Belamich and Carlos A. Rosillo, date back to 1992. Their vision is to create robust and functional watches for professionals facing extreme conditions, such as pilots, divers, and astronauts. The brand’s first watches, presented under the dual signature “Bell & Ross by Sinn,” were produced in partnership with Sinn, a German watchmaker specializing in aviation and diving watches. However, this collaboration ended in 2002, and the company became independent by establishing its own production facility in La Chaux-de-Fonds, Switzerland.
Bell & Ross stands out with high-performance watches that combine innovation with a long tradition of watchmaking. Among its achievements, in 1992 the brand launched the first jumping-hour watch equipped with a power reserve, called the Vintage 123 Jumping Hour. In 1998, it also set a world record for water resistance with the Hydromax, capable of withstanding a pressure equivalent to 11,100 meters. Other innovative creations also emerged, including the BR-01, which draws direct inspiration from aircraft cockpit instruments.
Although designed for various professional fields, Bell & Ross watches quickly gained popularity among the general public. Chanel’s acquisition of a stake in the company in 1998 accelerated this transition toward the luxury market, enabling the development of more sophisticated models. Over time, Bell & Ross forged a solid reputation in the world of fine watchmaking thanks to its commitment to quality and innovation. Some models have even been spotted on the wrists of celebrities such as Brad Pitt, who wears a Bell & Ross BR01 in the “Ocean’s” series. Today, Bell & Ross continues to expand its lineup with diverse collections ranging from aviation-inspired models to haute horlogerie pieces.
Famous Bell & Ross Watches
Bell & Ross is renowned for its iconic watches, which combine functionality with aviation-inspired design. Its collections captivate both newcomers and connoisseurs of luxury timepieces. Among its iconic models is the BR 01, launched in 2005. Its square case, inspired by the cockpit instruments of fighter jets, perfectly embodies the brand’s functional and military aesthetic. The BR-03, a variation of the BR 01, also meets the readability requirements of aviators. The collection retains its iconic square cases, available in black ceramic or stainless steel, which are reminiscent of cockpit flight instruments. The BR-03 evolves in 2023, reducing the case size to 41 mm. Its lines are sleeker and its movement has been modernized with the BR-CAL.302 caliber, offering a power reserve of 54 hours.
The Vintage Collection is another iconic line from Bell & Ross. It pays homage to classic military watches while incorporating modern technologies. The collection includes iconic watches such as the BR V2-92, equipped with a three-hand movement and a bidirectional rotating bezel. The BR-X1 also embodies Bell & Ross’s innovation with its skeletonized design and advanced materials such as titanium and ceramic. This model was launched to celebrate the brand’s experimental spirit, offering a bold aesthetic while featuring sophisticated complications. The Concept Collection, notably the BR 01 Laughing Skull model, also stands out for its unconventional skull-shaped design, paying homage to World War II paratroopers.
Which watch strap should you choose for your Bell & Ross watch?
Bell & Ross is renowned for its bold designs, directly inspired by aviation instruments. Combining industrial design with timeless elegance, its watches meet the demands of the most discerning professionals while appealing to watch enthusiasts seeking a unique and high-performance timepiece. Complete your watch with a strap that combines practicality, style, and durability. At Cie. Bracelet Montre, we offer a diverse catalog of Bell & Ross watch straps with an elegant look. These straps allow you to change the style of your watch case to suit your tastes and mood for the day. The variety of colors, stitching, materials, and finishes offers you numerous combination possibilities to find the model that best suits your personality. Discover our collection on our website or in person at our store, located in Paris, on Rue du Dragon in Saint-Germain-des-Prés.
Leather is a classic choice to enhance the luxurious look of your Bell & Ross watch. Calfskin leather watch straps made in France are prized for their softness and suppleness, ensuring optimal comfort on the wrist. This fine material is also available in a variety of finishes, such as grained, saddle, or aged calfskin, making it suitable for any style.
For a touch of exotic flair and unparalleled sophistication, opt for a alligator leather watch strap. The natural and unique patterns of its scales, varying in size and shape, give your timepiece a luxurious and distinctive character. You can also choose a lizard leather strap, which stands out for its smaller, densely packed scales. Its delicate patterns add a touch of refinement to your watch. Ostrich leather, a noble and sought-after material, also gives your watch a luxurious and sophisticated look. Its natural patterns make each piece unique.
In addition to leather, we also offer rubber straps for sports watches. Designed to be shock-resistant and water-resistant, this material allows you to wear your watch with complete peace of mind, even in extreme conditions. For optimal comfort and a casual style, a canvas strap is also a smart choice. Its durability also makes it the ideal accessory to accompany you on all your adventures.
