Bell & Ross has consistently distinguished itself by crafting timepieces that seamlessly blend functionality with a distinct aesthetic. Their watches are celebrated for their robust construction, unwavering precision, and an undeniable allure that captures the spirit of adventure and exploration. With the introduction of the BR-05 Skeleton Arctic Blue,
Bell & Ross once again demonstrates its mastery of watchmaking, presenting a timepiece that is both a technical marvel and a visual masterpiece.
The BR-05 Skeleton Arctic Blue is more than just a new addition to the BR-05 collection; it's a testament to the brand's unwavering commitment to innovation and design. This limited-edition timepiece, restricted to a mere 250 pieces, is an exclusive offering available solely through Bell & Ross boutiques and their e-commerce platform. It's a watch that beckons collectors and enthusiasts alike, promising a unique blend of sophistication and ruggedness.
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The BR-05 Skeleton Arctic Blue draws inspiration from the breathtaking landscapes of the Arctic, where ice and snow create a world of stark beauty and mesmerizing hues. The watch captures this essence through its distinctive blue-tinted dial, which mimics the intricate patterns of cracked ice. This effect is achieved through a meticulous process of laser engraving and pad printing, creating a frosted trompe-l'oeil that adds depth and intrigue to the watch's face.
The BR-05 collection, launched in 2019, has quickly become synonymous with urban elegance. Its integrated design, where the bracelet flows seamlessly into the case, is a hallmark of the collection. This design choice, inspired by the iconic styles of the 1970s, lends the BR-05 a modern and graphic appeal that sets it apart from the crowd. The BR-05 Skeleton Arctic Blue inherits this design language, further enhancing its contemporary aesthetic.
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The watch's skeletonized dial offers a captivating glimpse into the intricate mechanics within. The BR-CAL.322-1 movement, with its skeletonized bridges and plates, is on full display, allowing light to dance through its gears and springs. This transparency, combined with the blue-tinted dial, creates an illusion of the movement being submerged in icy water, a visual spectacle that speaks to the watch's Arctic inspiration.
At the heart of the BR-05 Skeleton Arctic Blue beats the BR-CAL.322-1, an automatic mechanical movement that's as reliable as it is visually captivating. This caliber, visible through the watch's skeletonized dial, boasts a 54-hour power reserve, ensuring accurate timekeeping even after being left unworn for an extended period. The movement's bridges and plates have been meticulously skeletonized, not only reducing weight but also allowing for an unobstructed view of the intricate interplay of gears and springs within.
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The case of the BR-05 Skeleton Arctic Blue is crafted from stainless steel, a material chosen for its durability and resistance to corrosion. Measuring 40 mm in diameter, it strikes a balance between robustness and wearability, making it suitable for a variety of wrist sizes. The case features a combination of satin-finished and polished surfaces, adding a touch of refinement to its overall aesthetic. A screw-down crown, protected by crown guards, ensures water resistance to a depth of 100 meters, making this watch suitable for everyday wear as well as recreational swimming and snorkeling.
The dial, as we've previously discussed, is the star of the show. Its blue-tinted glass plate, laser-engraved with irregular lines that mimic the cracks in Arctic ice, is a testament to Bell & Ross's attention to detail. The white transfer, applied by pad printing, further enhances this effect, creating a frosted trompe-l'oeil that is both visually striking and technically impressive. The dial also features applique indices filled with Super-LumiNova, ensuring legibility in low-light conditions.
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Protecting the dial is a sapphire crystal with an anti-reflective coating. This high-quality crystal is known for its scratch resistance and clarity, ensuring that the dial's intricate details are always on full display. The case back, also crafted from sapphire crystal, provides a clear view of the BR-CAL.322-1 movement in action, allowing you to appreciate the watch's mechanical beauty from all angles.
The BR-05 Skeleton Arctic Blue is available with two strap options: a satin-finished and polished stainless steel bracelet or a white rubber strap. The stainless steel bracelet, with its integrated design, seamlessly extends the lines of the case, creating a cohesive and modern look. The rubber strap, on the other hand, offers a sportier alternative, providing comfort and durability for more active pursuits. Both straps are equipped with a folding buckle in satin-finished and polished stainless steel, ensuring a secure and comfortable fit.
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The BR-05 Skeleton Arctic Blue is a limited-edition timepiece, with only 250 pieces available worldwide. This exclusivity, combined with its unique design and technical prowess, makes it a highly sought-after collector's item. Priced at $8,200, it represents a significant investment, but one that is sure to be appreciated by discerning watch enthusiasts.