The Bell & Ross BR-05 Chrono Patrouille de France is a limited edition timepiece, with only 500 pieces available, designed in collaboration with the renowned French Air and Space Force’s aerobatic team, the Patrouille de France. This watch encapsulates the values of elegance, precision, and excellence associated with this elite unit.
Design and Case
Case Dimensions: The case measures 42 mm in width and 14.25 mm in thickness, crafted from satin-finish polished steel.
Shape: The design incorporates the iconic Bell & Ross “circle within a square” aesthetic, echoing functionalist aviation instruments.
Crown: Features a screw-down crown with a sturdy crown guard to enhance water resistance and mechanical protection.
Crystal: The watch is equipped with a sapphire crystal, offering clarity with an anti-reflective coating.
Case Back: The sapphire crystal case back showcases the movement’s 360° oscillating weight, providing a view of the mechanical intricacies.
Water Resistance: The watch is water-resistant to 100 meters, suitable for various water activities.
Dial and Hands
Colour: The dial displays a sunny blue tone, symbolizing the Patrouille de France’s colors and integrating into its aesthetic identity.
Sub-dials: It features a 3 o’clock sub-dial for chronograph minutes and a 9 o’clock sub-dial for small seconds.
Patrouille de France Insignia: The emblem of the squadron is prominently displayed at the 6 o’clock position.
Markers and Hands: The numerals and hour-markers are finished in white with Super-LumiNova® coating for enhanced legibility in low light. Rhodium-plated skeleton hour and minute hands are similarly luminescent, while the second hand features an airplane-shaped balance, emphasizing the watch’s aviation inspiration.
Strap and Buckle
Strap Options: Customers can choose between a blue-colored calfskin leather strap or one made from satin-finished and polished steel, allowing for versatility in styling.
Buckle: The strap is secured with a folding buckle in satin-finished and polished steel, ensuring stability and a refined finish.
Movement
Mechanism: This timepiece is powered by the calibre Bell & Ross BR-CAL.326 automatic mechanical movement.
Chronograph Functionality: Central chronograph seconds and a 30-minute counter at 3 o’clock enhance its functionality, complemented by a quick-set date feature at 4:30.
Frequency and Power Reserve: Operating at a frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour (4 Hz), the movement provides a robust power reserve of over 60 hours, ensuring long-lasting accuracy and reliability.
Special Features
Integrated Design: The design boasts an integrated strap that recalls the iconic styles of the 1970s, reinterpreted in a modern, visually striking manner.
Symbolic Elements: The watch showcases an array of finishes—satin, polished, matte, glossy, and sunburst—that highlight its architectural lines and volumes.
Aviation Heritage: In homage to its aeronautical inspiration, the silhouetted Alphajet acts as a counterweight for the chronograph’s seconds hand, adding a touch of technical artistry.
The BR-05 Chrono Patrouille de France is more than just a functional timepiece; it is a symbol of French aviation prowess, capturing the grace and prowess of the Patrouille de France while providing a sophisticated accessory for the modern individual.
