SpotlightTurbocharged Timekeeping: The Bell & Ross BR-X5 Racing
The 500-piece limited run Bell & Ross BR-X5 Racing is notable for COSC-certified automatic movement, revving inside a 41mm titanium case
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The Bell & Ross BR 05 range, introduced in 2019, is one of the pioneers of luxury sports watches. The design philosophy is aligned with integrated sports watches of the ’70s that featured a circular dial nestled within squared-off bezels. Confidently following in the footsteps of the BR 05 and drawing inspiration from its aviation ties is the newer BR-X5 range. This line is instantly recognisable, as the dial features a large aperture date window at three o’clock and a power reserve indicator at nine o’clock, adding functionality and visual appeal to the timepiece. Now, the brand’s latest offering, the Bell & Ross BR-X5 Racing, has taken this design language to new heights. Retaining the iconic square shape of the case and aviation-inspired aesthetics, the BR-X5 Racing offers a more contemporary and adventurous execution to the Urban collection. Its integrated and sleek design is a reflection of Bell & Ross’s commitment to crafting supercharged timepieces. Inspired by the high-octane world of motorsports, the BR-X5 Racing is driven by performance, readability, and lightness. Packed in a 41mm titanium case, it is powered by the calibre BR-CAL.323 automatic movement.
Speedy And Sporty: The Bell & Ross BR-X5 Racing
Inheriting the bold design language of the BR-X5 range, the BR-X5 Racing is a combination of bold aesthetic and high-tech materials that give the watch its strength and lightness. The case of the BR-X5 Racing, measuring 41mm, uniquely combines the lightweight and robust materials of carbon and titanium. Four micro-blasted titanium screws secure the sandwich case design. The square-shaped bezel is made of two parts, with a woven carbon plate integrated into the titanium body. The strap, available in either titanium or rubber, is attached to two independent plates of the case, ensuring an ergonomic fit for the wrist. These materials, along with the sapphire caseback, enable the watch’s impressive water resistance up to 100m.
Coming to the aspect where a lot is happening, the BR-X5 Racing has a fumé dial that takes inspiration from racing car dashboards. It features a central seconds hand with a quarter-second checkerboard-style graduation. The minutes are displayed on the inner bezel, while the hours appear on the dial’s glass. The numeral typography is consistent with Bell & Ross’s sports watch design codes. For visibility in low light, the hour numerals and hour and minute hands are coated with white Super-LumiNova X1 luminescent material that has a green glow. While other BR-X5s show a circular power reserve indicator, the BR-X5 Racing presents a hexagonal shape for it, going well with the sporty design of the case. The seconds hand’s red tip further enhances readability and emphasises the watch’s speedy character.
A Movement Inspired by Aero GT Supercar
To match its motorsports-inspired appearance, Bell & Ross have put inside a precision-engineered automatic movement, delivering accuracy and reliability. The BR-CAL.323 movement is housed within a black DLC titanium monobloc container, with two grade 2 micro-blasted titanium plates encasing it and integrating the crown guards. It is visible through a tinted glass in the centre of the dial and at the back of the case, courtesy the transparent sapphire crystal.
This movement beats at a frequency of 28,800vph and delivers a 70-hour power reserve. The power reserve indicator on this limited edition of 500 pieces is also inspired by the automotive world, especially the Aero GT supercar and the design of stealth aircraft. It functions like a fuel gauge in a car, with ‘E’ for ‘Empty’ and ‘F’ for ‘Full’ markings, displaying the remaining power reserve from zero to three days.
Overall, this COSC-certified chronometer has checked the boxes of technical and functional mastery. Shifting gears in watchmaking, the BR-X5 Racing is engineered to keep pace with life in the fast lane.
The Bell & Ross BR-X5 Racing In A Nutshell
- Case: 41mm in diameter; titanium and carbon
- Crystal: Sapphire with anti-reflective coating
- Water resistance: 100m
- Dial: Fumé; matt black hour and minute hands filled with white Super-LumiNova; white sweep seconds with red tip
- Movement: Calibre BR-CAL.323; manufacture; automatic mechanical movement; approximate power reserve of 70 hours
- Functions: Hours, minutes, and seconds; date window at three o’clock and power reserve indicator at nine o’clock
- Strap: Titanium or black rubber; folding micro-blasted titanium buckle
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is a racing watch?
Racing watches are designed with features and aesthetics inspired by the world of motorsports. These timepieces are built to withstand the rigours of an active, high-performance lifestyle, with robust construction, specialised strap options, and a focus on superior legibility. The dynamic, sports-inspired design language and functional capabilities make racing watches a popular choice among automotive and motorsports enthusiasts seeking a timepiece that can keep pace with their thrilling lifestyles.
- What is a COSC-certified movement?
A COSC-certified movement is a mechanical watch movement that has been certified by the ContrôleOfficiel Suisse des Chronomètres (COSC), which is the official Swiss chronometer testing institute. Such movements pass extreme levels of testing by the COSC institute. To receive this certification, a movement must meet strict standards for accuracy, precision, and consistency, ensuring the movement is of the highest quality and delivers unparalleled timekeeping performance.
- Why are Bell & Ross BR-X5 watches popular?
Bell & Ross BR-X5 watches have gained popularity among enthusiasts for their unique square case design, high-end materials, advanced features, and limited production that creates exclusivity. Continuing the aeronautical inspiration and signature style of the BR-05 collection, the BR-X5 introduces a custom-developed COSC-certified manufacture movement; a first for the brand. Available in a variety of materials like steel, carbon, and titanium, the BR-X5 range provides a diverse selection that complements different preferences.
