Summer moved on. I didn’t! – Bell & Ross BR-03 Horizon hands-on review

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We are just in the middle of September but cold already started to be present around us. At least for me, here in the Stuttgart region in South-West Germany. Just last week I was searching for shadow and trying to chill somewhere green and cool. Today Bell & Ross launches the BR-03 Horizon, an avionics tool-inspired timepiece with an undeniable charm. I decided to bring the warm back to your souls with this review. So let’s dive in…

Bell & Ross has long captivated watch enthusiasts with timepieces that transcend mere functionality, merging aesthetic excellence with deep-rooted aviation inspirations. The BR-03 Horizon, a limited edition of 999 pieces, is the latest addition to this remarkable tradition. This watch is more than just a timekeeper— it’s a celebration of aviation history and an homage to the critical instruments that guide pilots through the skies.

Case: Bold, Durable, and Aviation-Inspired

At first glance, the Bell & Ross BR-03 Horizon asserts itself as a strong contender for the wrist with its 41 mm micro-blasted black ceramic case. This material is not only visually striking but also highly durable and resistant to the harsh elements pilots may face in the air. Its anti-reflective sapphire crystal ensures clear legibility in any lighting condition, enhancing its practical nature while adhering to the highest Swiss standards.

The square-shaped case, adorned with four iconic screws, pays tribute to Bell & Ross’ signature design philosophy, evoking the feel of a cockpit instrument. With a water resistance of 100 meters, the watch offers a level of robustness that matches its utilitarian roots, making it as comfortable on the ground as it is in the air.

Dial: A Unique Take on the Artificial Horizon

The dial of the BR-03 Horizon stands as a symbol of aviation’s essence. Inspired by the artificial horizon indicator found in aircraft cockpits, the dial features a distinct blue and black colour scheme. The upper blue portion symbolizes the sky, while the lower dark section represents the earth—bringing the sense of being in flight directly to the wrist. A red decal line across the dial mirrors the horizon, making the watch both visually engaging and highly functional.

The watch hands are designed with readability in mind: a large white hand marks the minutes, while a black and white striped hand indicates the seconds. The hour, however, is displayed through a central disk on the dial, with an arrow marker pointing to the hour indication. This playful yet efficient design not only showcases the creative flair of Bell & Ross but also emphasizes the brand’s commitment to producing timepieces that prioritize clarity and function, akin to the instruments they emulate.

Movement: Precision at Its Core

Beneath the aviation-inspired aesthetics, the BR-03 Horizon houses the BR.CAL-327 automatic mechanical movement, which ensures the watch’s precision and reliability. This calibre delivers a robust 54-hour power reserve, a testament to Bell & Ross‘ engineering prowess. For those who demand accuracy over extended periods, this feature is an essential part of the overall package. The smooth movement of the hands, particularly the finely striped seconds hand, reflects the flawless engineering inside the timepiece.

A Collector’s Dream: Watches & Airplanes

The Bell & Ross BR-03 Horizon is not just a watch; it’s an extension of the cockpit, a link between the skies and the wearer. With its striking design, durable materials, and technical excellence, it’s a must-have for any serious collector or aviation enthusiast. Limited to just 999 pieces, this watch stands as a beacon of Bell & Ross’ dedication to aviation-inspired horology. Whether you’re in flight or firmly on the ground, the BR-03 Horizon serves as a constant reminder of the precision and innovation that defines both aviation and horology.

The BR-03 Horizon is a fantastic piece that brought me a lot of fun. We were lucky to have a beautiful summer day for this photo shoot and I hope I filled your hearts with the summer feel and made you consider this watch for yourself. On a more personal note, I chose the orange strap as being very suitable for this tool watch. Due to its double folding sides, both, Diana and I could comfortably wear it.

Bell & Ross BR-03 Horizon Technical Specifications

Ref. BR03A-HRZ-CE – € 4.500

Functions

• Hours, minutes and seconds.

Movement

• Calibre BR-CAL.327.
• Automatic mechanism.
• 54-hour power reserve.

Case

• Microblasted black ceramic.
• 41 mm wide. 10.60 mm thick.
• Crystal: sapphire with anti-reflective coating.
• Water-resistance: 100 metres.

Dial

• Hours indicated by a blue and black disc.
• White minute hands.
• Black and white striated seconds hands.
• Red decal to indicate the horizon.

Strap

• Black rubber and orange synthetic fabric.
• Buckle: Pin. Steel with matt black PVD (Physical Vapour Deposition) microblasted finish.