Bell & Ross – Desert Type | (Pre-Basel 2016)

The Bell & Ross Desert Type was designed to meet the speci cations of air forces operating in warm countries. Therefore, it is sand- coloured, just like the out ts worn by pilots on desert missions.

The BR 03 Desert Type perfectly illustrates the four fundamental principles of Bell & Ross: legibility, functionality, precision and water resistance.

Equipped with a chronograph function, this watch was specially designed for air pilots needing a tool to measure short time intervals.

The case is black and the crystal features an anti-re ective coating. The four screws in the corners of the case evoke the aeronautical origins of the BR 01, using the front-mounting system of on board instruments featured in aircraft cockpits. These are functional and secure the bezel to the case, ensuring the watch is water resistant to a depth of 100 metres.

Just like analogue aviation counters, the shape of the hands and the typography of the numerals guarantee total ease of reading. Meanwhile, the dial’s design is inspired by military techniques of marking for maximum legibility. Formed by two overlapping inserts, the beige upper section is cut away around the numerals and indices, revealing the black photoluminescent coating covering the lower insert. This black and sand-coloured contrast provides optimal reading of the dial during the daytime, as well as equally remarkable legibility at night thanks to its consistent and masterful photoluminescence.

To meet the requirements of the men working in the eld, the new Desert Type is available in three versions, each with its own Swiss movement. On the 42 mm version, the three-hand BR 03-92 and the BR 03-94 chronograph present the large opening generally used for instrument watches. The 39 mm model presents the three-hand BR S for a version suited for smaller wrists, and also for women wishing to stand out from the crowd.