The bête noire roars into the family with mysterious panache
Our obsession with black watches will never go away, like ‘the latest trend’ that usually disappears from our conscience after a while. Just when you think it might suffer the same fate as a ‘trend’ factor, it makes its presence known once again, and stronger than ever, that it is here to stay, for good. We all now know the reason why, because it has now been deeply embedded in our thoughts. We have not only adopted it but also accepted it, like we have accepted titanium into the family of stainless steel and the precious metals.
Bell & Ross first introduced the BR 05 in 2019 and has since been prolific in releasing several superb versions of this modern, urbane family that is quickly establishing itself as a contemporary icon. Over the past few years, they have produced models in stainless steel, including the BR 05 Skeleton in various dial shades such as blue, clear silver, amber, and green, all of which are equally aesthetically pleasing. This year, Bell & Ross decided to offer a different take—a new yet familiar addition to the family: the complete black version, the BR 05 Skeleton Phantom Ceramic.
It's not unexpected, but we were waiting with abated breath and hoping to see the day it makes an appearance. Well, the day has finally come, and the wait wasn’t long, but it was a pleasant one, no less. And the all-black version is simply beautiful, and it’s even more mysterious than we had anticipated! Perhaps it’s because the vision I had in my head of what it may look like still doesn’t compare to the actual watch itself after seeing.
The BR 05 Skeleton Phantom Ceramic is exceptional in every aspect. Its modern and sophisticated look stems from a simple yet effective design that captures the essence brilliantly. Upon closer inspection, you will notice the fine detailing and craftsmanship invested in finishing the watch. The ceramic is polished vertically to create the distinctive pattern seen on the stainless steel, on the top case, and the bezel, with matching polished bevelled edges. The dial features a prominent satin-polished inward-sloping inner ring framing the rhodium-plated movement, set behind a black-tinted transparent plate and a blackened skeleton bridge. The beautifully finished rhodium-plated components are fully visible for you to appreciate. Floating above them are blackened appliqué hour markers and hands, both filled with green emission SuperLumiNova, which enhances the monochromatic aesthetic and improves readability in low-light conditions.
The skeletonised automatic calibre BR-CAL.322-1 has a power reserve of 54 hours that powers the watch, which floats within its see-through belly, contained between a sapphire crystal cover and the caseback. To complete the Phantom look, it comes with either a black ceramic bracelet, which is fiendishly slim and light, or a black rubber strap.
The obsession with black watches is not a surprise, as it sits between day and night comfortably, and just as well between a boardroom meeting or a formal soiree, and if I may, even a weekend sporty or not! Yes, it is that versatile. A watch that will see you through every and any occasion you can find yourself in and out of. It’s limited to 500 pieces worldwide. Don’t think about it, act on it!
