Bell & Ross have always been obsessed with aviation and the instruments of flight. Whether that comes in the form of practical pilot’s watches or more colourful and entertaining numbers like the BR-03 Horizon. Their latest release though has achieved escape velocity to move from humble Earth-bound aviation to the realm of space travel. It’s the fittingly named Bell & Ross BR-03 Astro.
I say space travel rather than space in general because it’s specifically inspired by the view from the International Space Station’s cupola viewing port. The position from which astronauts can watch the Earth, moon, other satellites and even other planets in their cosmic dance. Which is why the dial features the Earth front and centre with the seconds displayed by an orbiting satellite, the minutes by the moon and the hours by Mars.
Each of the decorative elements are rendered in surprising detail. From the wispy clouds above the Earth to the individual panels on the satellite, pockmarked craters on the moon and even the geological scar of the Mariner Valley on Mars. They’re all presented against an aventurine glass backdrop, horology’s go-to material for creating the impression of the Milky Way without having to paint 400 billion individual stars.
BR-03 Astro’s case is based on the updated model from 2023, measuring 41mm in micro-blasted ceramic. The matte finish of the ceramic emphasises the industrial vibe of the watch with its exposed screws in the corners outside the ring of the bezel. The same is true of the cylindrical crown at 3 o’clock with hobnail grip.
Powering the BR-03 Astro is the BR-CAL.327, which is essentially the dateless version of the BR-CAL.302, which is itself based on the Sellita SW300-1 a with 52-hour power reserve. It’s on the higher end of the Bell & Ross spectrum, which in combination with the ceramic case and highly decorative dial means the watch has a price of £4,200. It’s also a limited edition of 999 pieces.
On a subjective level I’m torn. On a strict horology front the Astro is a little gimmicky and toy-like, a criticism that has been levelled at B&R more than a few times. But also, I’m a sucker for astronomy and science. The vision of a blue planet seen through a porthole is so evocative of adventure and progress. In a world where space is becoming politicised by tech billionaires who for some reason are making speeches in the Oval Office, it’s nice to remember how beautiful and precious the Earth is, and the Astro gives me that feeling in wristwatch form.
Price and Specs:
More details at Bell & Ross.
I am also torn on a subjective level. Also looks hard to read the time. But, the satellite is the seconds hand. That’s what got me.
How about leaving political comments out of watch reviews…..