Bell&Ross: BR 03-92 BI-COMPASS
8 February 2019Bell&Ross introduces the BR 03-92 BI-COMPASS a new version inspired by analog instrumentation of aircraft cockpits, where each instrument is a reference point in terms of precision, legibility, reliability and performance. With this watch, Bell&Ross recreates the graphic style of these navigation tools as closely as possible, offering an alternative to the traditional approach of telling the time.
Built on a two-tier basis, the dial divides its main center part with the outer part through a small “step” equipped with a minute-circle. To enhance legibility, the hour and minute graduations have been separated to promote the minutes on the main dial while the hours are displayed in the center. The hour reading is indicated by a green triangle marker which appears in the center through an independent concentric disc which is not graduated.
The technical challenge posed by its design and construction required the best watchmaking expertise: An ultra-light disc needed to be created to ensure that the power reserve nor the accuracy of the watch was not reduced. Furthermore, the disc needs to be sufficiently resistant so as to not become deformed or risk any friction. This dual challenge has required the development of specific materials and new techniques. As it rotates, an adjustment to the nearest micron ensures that the disc is constantly parallel. The typography used for the numerals is identical to that on analog aviation counters (Isonorm).
The use of color is important in aviation for the coding of signals, hence the need to set adequate color requirements to ensure that flight crew can recognize information at a glance.
Blue-green: The Munsell green hue indicates the hours and is covered in Superluminova that contrasts with the black of the dial, ensuring they can be easily read both during the day and at night.
Off-white: The “coquille d’oeuf” hands and numerals on the dial unveil the minutes and seconds and echoes the legibility principles of professional aeronautical instruments. This color scheme was com- monly used on instruments, specifically on US Navy aircrafts.
The anti-glare, black matte ceramic finish of the case is inspired by the color of an instrumentation panel, designed to make the dial easier to read by eliminating glare. (Price €.3.500)
