Very few watch brands today can boast a strong relationship to aviation like Bell & Ross. After all that’s how this Swiss watchmaker has carved a reputation for itself. Founded in 1992, the company has specialized in Swiss Made watches for professional users such as divers and pilots. The latest chapter for the brand comes to the fore with the BR 03-92 Radiocompass.

Famous for drawing inspiration from the history of aviation and the military specifications, Bell & Ross’ trump card has been its timepieces modelled after aeronautical instruments. In fact, that’s how the brand pioneered the ‘circle in a square’ motif, which has been a prominent part of its DNA.

In the past we have seen Bell & Ross deviate from this with stylish models like the BR 05 Skeleton and the BR V2-92 Full Lum. But now with the BR 03-92 Radiocompass sees the watch brand signals a return to its original form.

From The Cockpit To The Wrist

As you would surmise, the BR 03-92 Radiocompass, takes its name from a radionavigation tool. The new timepiece draws inspiration from the Radio Compass, which is distinguished by its original coloured hands that guarantee optimal readability.

The new timepiece joins the iconic Flight Instruments collection from Bell & Ross. This family, created in 2010, incorporates air navigation tools into horological pieces, which is something the BR 03-92 Radiocompass fully embraces.

Powered by the calibre BR-CAL.302, the 42mm automatic mechanical timepiece boasts functions such as hours, minutes, seconds and date. However the key appeal lies in its design. As seen above, the Bell & Ross BR 03-92 Radiocompass, reproduces the display of the eponymous tool. Both the hands and graduations allow for optimal readability.

Even the matt black dial contrasts with white graduations arranged in three circles, allowing the face to ‘pop’. This along with the numerals laid out in a specific way and its funky hands lend the timepiece a fun and unique layout, one that is far removed from regular timepieces in the market today.

For A Select Few

It’s distinctive design can be both a detriment and benefit for the BR 03-92 Radiocompass. For one it does stand out, and it also keeps to the spirit of Bell & Ross. But it is also designed for a specific audience.

From a technical perspective the Bell & Ross Radiocompass will assuredly attract aeronautics enthusiasts who appreciate the idea of wearing a watch reminiscent of an aeronautical instrument. Its avant-garde and fun design will also pull the heart strings of design lovers, especially those who want something different and cool strapped to their wrist.

For the rest of the watch community, we dare say that the BR 03-92 Radiocompass may require a bit more convincing. Fortunately, this is something Bell & Ross doesn’t have to worry about as they’ve made only 999 pieces. Priced at RM16,700, it could be something you have been looking for to add a colour to your watch collection.

(Images: Bell & Ross)