Throwback Thursday: Bell & Ross BR 01

In 2005, Bell & Ross introduced the revolutionary BR 01, a huge (46mm) watch with a square case that took its design cues from aircraft clocks. It has since become a modern classic and a foundational model for the brand – a timepiece that is instantly recognizable. While Many brands pay tribute to the concept of aviation instrumentation, Bell & Ross actually designed the BR 01 in partnership with aeronautical instrumentation specialists. The result was a unique interpretation of the cockpit clock as a wristwatch, with numerals, markers, hands and square case optimized for legibility and functionality – the hallmarks of a pilot’s watch. You can’t miss the large hands, indexes and markers, which are treated with a white photo-luminous coating to contrast with the black dial. The functional spirit of the cockpit clock was also interpreted by fitting four screws on the top of the case, in keeping with the front fastening system of a plane’s cockpit instruments. Functionally, they ensure water resistance and make the movement accessible via the top of the case. Subsequent BR 01 collections, with a multitude of different functions and materials, have remained true to the basic concept.