Bell & Ross might be best known for its circle-in-a-square pilot watches, but that shouldn’t distract from the fact that the French-founded brand’s rough and ready dive watches are some of the best in the game.
This year, after refreshing the aviation-focused BR 03 collection in 2023, the BR 03 Diver line-up has gotten the same attention with the release of five new references that are as capable as they are stylish.
All five of the new Bell & Ross BR 03 Diver references feature 42mm cases which, thanks to the secure locking screw-down crown, are water resistant to an impressive 300m. With a date window tucked away at the 4:30 position on the dial, and some of the most comfortable rubber straps in the industry, the collection also features a unidirectional diver’s bezel that lends a nice balance to the dial.
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However, beyond the top-line specs, there are two stand-out references in the BR 03 refresh. These include a variation with a full matte-finished ceramic case, delivering a stealthy impression on the wrist; and a black PVD-coated reference in stainless steel with a pale, luminescent blue dial — to ensure the time can be read no matter the lighting conditions.
“Providing professionals with quality tools for their tasks, and pushing boundaries to their furthest extent has always been part of our brand’s DNA,” said Bell & Ross co-founder Carlos Rosillo in a statement.
“Bell & Ross is, by definition, the supplier of explorers and elite units, for whom each watch is designed to comply with precise product specifications, according to the environment in which it is intended to be used.”
Powering all five references of the Bell & Ross BR 03 Diver collection is the reliable automatic calibre BR-CAL.302-1, which ticks away at 28,800bph and delivers 52 hours of power reserve at full wind. It’s a compelling new collection from Bell & Ross, and one that successfully achieves the goal of a robust, everyday diver. Not for nothing: it looks a treat on the wrist as well.
The full collection is currently available from Bell & Ross boutiques.
