Bell & Ross has assuredly staked its claim for its aviation-inspired timepieces. However, the FrancoSwiss watchmaker has also demonstrated its prowess in both creative and technical ability over the years. Never one to rest on their laurels, the brand has consistently pushed the boundaries of horology. The new BR-03 Astro is just the latest demonstration of Bell & Ross’ watchmaking credentials.
Tribute To The Blue Planet
The realistic backdrop of the cosmos is made of the quartzite aventurine.
Seeing the latest BR-03 Astro up close recently, it’s evident that Bell & Ross has reached new heights for its latest timepiece. In fact, you could say the brand aimed for the stars for a model that truly pays homage to the cosmic universe.
With the Earth sitting at the centre, flanked by the Moon and Mars, the brand tributes the blue planet whilst offering a fresh perspective on its watchmaking expertise. Precision-crafted, the watchmaker takes the challenge of envisioning a planetary system within a 41mm case.
Original and unprecedented, its dial showcases the orbits of planets around Earth. An interplanetary timepiece dedicated not only to space exploration enthusiasts and astronomy buffs but also to admirers of our planet.
By placing Earth at the centre, surrounded by the Moon and the planet Mars, the brand pays offers an innovative new take on the time display.
Although watch aficionados may link Bell & Ross’ past history with space exploration with the Space 1 watch, which was the first automatic chronometer worn in space in the mid-90s, the inspiration for the BR-03 Astro is in fact derived from the observation dome of the International Space Station (ISS).
“The Cupola – which acts as a kind of porthole opening onto the planets – inspired the watch,” explains Bruno Belamich, Creative Director and Co-Founder of Bell & Ross. “I imagined Earth seen from space in symbolic alignment with the Moon and Mars. The magic of this watch lies in its display—not as a technical interpretation of an instrument watch but, for once, in an imaginative dimension.”
Time Reimagined
Bell & Ross soars beyond the stratosphere with a watch inspired by the cosmos.
Conceptual in spirit, the BR-03 Astro is also highly technical in execution. With a technical black exterior reminiscent of space’s darkness, the BR-03 Astro asserts itself as a statement of style and individuality. Measuring 41mm in diameter and 11.5mm in height, its case is crafted entirely from black ceramic.
For a realistic and faithful representation of Earth, whilst maintaining the watchmaker’s precision and legibility standards, Bell & Ross orchestrated an intricate decal process beneath the glass.
A limited edition of 999 pieces.
The glass of the dial is carved into a spherical cap, allowing Earth to be rendered realistically in both volume and decal. Calculating the weight and positioning of the hands—especially to support the engraved Moon—required the same meticulous approach applied to designing components of any other precision timepiece.
A small satellite orbiting Earth marks the passage of seconds. In one minute, it circles the planet and advances the Moon at the same time. At the turn of every hour, Mars shifts its position. With this captive orbital system, displayed on a blue aventurine dial, the BR-03 Astro offers a reimagined way to read traditional time indicators.
Utilising Mars and the Moon as hour and minute hands are unconventional but admittedly daring and creative. The satellite functioning as the second hand also lends a welcome whimsical touch. The constant animation that takes place on the dial of the BR-03 Astro expresses a journey through the solar system and the sheer magic and wonder of space.
BR-03 ASTRO
Movement: Calibre BR-CAL.327. Self-winding mechanical movement.
Power Reserve: 54 hours.
Case: 41mm wide, 11.50mm thick. Micro-blasted black ceramic. Screw-down crown.
Dial: Blue aventurine plate. ‘Moon’ minute hand, ‘Mars’ hour hand, ‘Satellite’ second hand. Earth recessed in the centre within the sapphire.
Strap: Black rubber and black synthetic fabric.
Water resistance: 100m.
Limited Edition: 999 pieces.
