Bell & Ross designs are almost always aesthetically very pleasing, and the new BR-X1 Phantom is no different. Almost stunningly handsome, the 250 piece limited edition is now available.
Bell & Ross BR-X1 Phantom
This is not the first time Bell & Ross introduced a skeleton version of the popular X1 Chronograph. We reviewed the 2017 version of the back titanium version here. And this continues along the lines of the other BR-X1:
The case, dial and hands
The 45mm case is in a blackened titanium with detailing on the sides and the bezel. This is the same as the 2017 version. As is the ceramic bumpers surrounding the case sides. On the pusher and crown side, the bumpers are lifted from the case side and serve as stylized pushers.
But in this new Phantom, Bell & Ross redesigned the dial layout, making the bi-compax design look clearer with two donut shaped sub-dials for the continuous seconds placed at 3 o’clock, and the 30 minute timer sub-dial is placed at 9 o’clock.
This new sub-dial at 3 completely changes the look of the BR-X1 to the extent that it no longer looks like its older (and now sold out) cousins.
The movement: BR-CAL313
The movement also remains unchanged and is the BR-CAL313 used in the other BR-X1 Black Titanium and is based on the ETA 2894-1 with a chronograph module sourced from Dubuis-Depraz. This movement is well tested and fitted on all the BR-X1 range of chronographs.
This is a basic, robust automatic mechanical movement beating at 28,800 bph and is designed to showcase an X shaped upper bridge, visible from the dial side. The jewel count is a rather high 56, due to the module nature of the movement.
Concluding thoughts
As the earlier BR-X1 skeleton watches are all limited editions of 250 pieces each, and are all sold out, the new Phantom gives an opportunity for those who fancy the design a go at owning a piece. The design is certainly quite beautiful with an endearing quality of a tinge of familiarity with a dose of novelty. At S$ 28,800 with GST, it is the same price as the earlier White Hawk, which is has a more striking appearance compared to the more discreet and restrain of the Phantom.
More details on the official Bell & Ross BR-X1 Phantom page.
1 Comment
Remind me of Zenith El Primero skeleton, which cost a fraction of the price.