The Motorsport-Infused Bell & Ross BR-X5 Racing

For more than a decade, Bell & Ross has been mostly associated with its emblematic instrument collection, a “circle within a square” design inspired by dashboard instruments. Conscious that it was not sustainable, the brand decided in 2019 to become more urban, while staying true to its roots, unveiling the BR-05 collection. This collection opened the door to an even more ambitious range; the BR-X5… more muscular, more high-tech, and powered by a Kenissi movement. And if you take this powerful watch and blend in the classic motorsport roots of the brand, you have the new Bell & Ross BR-X5 Racing.

Despite not partnering anymore with Alpine (ex-Renault) Formula 1 Team, Bell & Ross still has a strong connection with motorsport and wants to keep the concept of the pilot’s watch (not the plane pilot, but the racecar pilot) alive. To do so, the brand elected its most advanced and high-tech collection for its latest racing-oriented model, based on a watch with a modular construction, allowing it to play with materials and colours.

A material known for its strength and lightness, titanium is at the centre of this new BR-X5 Racing. The case is built around three main parts, with a so-called sandwich architecture. Two grade 2 micro-blasted titanium plates encase a black DLC titanium monobloc container housing the movement and integrating the crown shoulders. On top, the square-shaped bezel, with classic rounded edges and functional screws, consists of two parts, with a woven carbon plate integrated into a titanium body. The case is bold and feels technical, with a 41mm width, 12.8mm thickness and a comfortable 100m water-resistance thanks to a screw-down crown.

The dial of this BR-X5 Racing oozes motorsport too, with a classic checkerboard inspiration and elements reminiscent of racing car dashboards. The base, which is smoked sapphire and offers a glimpse into the movement, is framed by a racing/checkered seconds track, with the minutes displayed on the angled inner flange. Large Arabic numerals indicate the hours, together with lumed hands. A date window sits at 3 o’clock and a power reserve indicator at 9 o’clock, shaped like a fuel gauge.

Inside the case, visible under the sapphire back, is the calibre BR-CAL.323. First seen in the classic BR-X5 models, this movement marked the start of a collaboration between Bell & Ross and Kenissi. This movement, whose base is shared with Tudor, Chanel and Norqain, offers a solid 70h power reserve and is chronometer-certified by the COSC.

This new edition of the BR-X5 offers the choice between either a titanium bracelet (grade 2, micro-blasted) or a black rubber strap, both closed by a folding clasp. A limited edition of 500 pieces, the Bell & Ross BR-X5 Racing will be priced at EUR 10,900 on a rubber strap and EUR 11,900 on a titanium bracelet. For more details, please visit bellross.com.