We caught up with Bell & Ross CEO, Carlos Rosillo in Watches & Wonders recently and talked to him about his nevelties and plans for the future. Here is our thoughts on the novelties released this WWG25, and the video of our chat at the Bell & Ross booth in Geneva.
Watching the CEO: Carlos Rosillo on new releases to celebrate 20 years of boldness with Bell & Ross (video)
Bell & Ross is always a breath of fresh air. Their bold styling, now celebrates 20 years! I have been following the maison since its launch in Singapore in 2008, and have always been struck by the design language used by Bruno Belamich, Creative Director and Co-founder of Bell & Ross. And by the market positioning that Carlos Rosillo, CEO and Co-founder. These two gentlemen form Bell & Ross. Even the logo is intriguing. Just a simple ampersand signifying the friendship between the founders and the inclusive nature of the watches.
YouTube Video: Carlos Rosillo
BR-03: new additions
The brand story began in 2005, with the BR-01. This was a revolutionary watch because it showcased that it was possible to make an attractive watch with a square design, visible screws and an imposing 46mm case. The watch was inspired by the instruments in the cockpit of aeroplanes. And the intent was for it to be used as a go-anywhere watch, meeting the demands of readability needed for aviation as well as more mundane daily tasks.
The BR-03 was an adaptation unveiled in 2006. This had a 42m case and retains the signature elements of the original. Round in a square. With 4 screws on the case. This smaller case attracted a broader audience. Over the years, the design evolved. But always keeping the same DNA.
And in 2023, a subtle evolution occured. The case was revised once again and refined to 41mm. As we noted in our review then, 1mm may seem like a tiny change, but it marks a subtle yet significant evolution of the watch’s aesthetics. And as a model with 18 years of heritage under its belt then, it needed to remain true to the heritage but yet offer a more refined and contemporary design.
This year, Bell & Ross releases the Skeleton. Three models were unveiled at WWG25: the BR-03 Skeleton Black Ceramic, the BR-03 Skeleton Grey Steel, and the BR-03 Skeleton Lum Ceramic. The three BR-03 Skeleton models share a unique movement, designed and manufactured exclusively for Bell & Ross.
BR-05: now in a smaller, sleeker 36mm case
The BR-05 also went on a diet, and this year, Bell & Ross added a 36mm case to the collection. As Carlos said in the video, this is smaller, sleeker and suitable for both men and women. We tried both, and was impressed with how the smaller watch wore on the wrist, and for me, it was just as comfortable as the 40mm version.
This novelty is available in 4 variants: Black Steel (shown right of the photograph above, Grey Steel, Ice Blue Steel (similar to the 40mm variant shown on the left, but smaller), and Mother of Pearl Steel.
