Not all images were able to load for printing. Please close the print window and try again. Bell & Ross BR-X3 Micro-Rotor, More to See Than Just Time
The BR-X3 is, quite clearly, less about adding features and more about showcasing its construction.
Parisian brand Bell & Ross has long worked with open dials, showing more of the movement instead of covering it up. With the BR-X3 line, that approach also sits well within the brand’s circle-within-a-square design language introduced in 2005. After last year’s BR-X3 Tourbillon Micro-Rotor, this new BR-X3 Micro-Rotor keeps the same idea, but this time with a simpler movement. The movement is fully visible and integrated into the case, rather than simply housed inside it. Developed with Concepto, the micro-rotor calibre keeps the watch thin and the layout easy to follow. Limited to 99 pieces, it continues Bell & Ross’ way of putting mechanics front and centre.
There is no traditional dial here, but a structure of bridges and components arranged in a grid. The time is shown with two central hands that are filled with lume, while the rest of the space is left open, so you can see the mechanics at work. There is no seconds hand either, but the balance wheel at 4 o’clock seems to give a constant sense of motion.
The 40mm steel case comes with satin finishing and polishing, and follows the familiar BR-03 shape, with its four exposed screws and a square profile. In this setup, the case and movement are built together as one unit, with the central plate acting as both structure and base. Sapphire crystals on both sides keep everything visible, and light can also move across the different surfaces and finishes throughout the BR-X3 Micro-Rotor.
Developed by Concepto for Bell & Ross, the proprietary automatic BR-CAL.390 movement drives the BR-X3 Micro-Rotor. Instead of a full rotor sitting on top, a micro-rotor is integrated into the movement itself, helping reduce thickness while showing more of the engine. It offers a 48-hour power reserve and keeps the overall profile to just 9mm, which is quite slim.
The look stays mostly monochrome, with steel and grey tones across the bridges and plates. Finishing varies from brushed to microblasted surfaces, with polished edges that play with light and contrast. Priced at EUR 22,000, the BR-X3 Micro-Rotor is worn on a grey calfskin strap with a faux alligator pattern, in the same tone as the watch. For more information, please visit bellross.com.
