Bell & Ross celebrates French aviation with the launch of the BR-05 Chrono Limited Edition



Bell & Ross takes to the skies once again with the latest BR-05 Chrono Patrouille de France, a limited edition watch created to celebrate its enduring partnership with the iconic French aerobatic team. Renowned for its precision and artistry, the Patrouille de France represents the pinnacle of aeronautical excellence, and this latest chronograph embodies the same spirit.

Bell & Ross has long been synonymous with aviation-inspired timepieces, with designs that borrow heavily from cockpit instrumentation. Since launching its partnership with Patrouille de France in 2021, the brand has further solidified its ties to the world of aviation. Carlos Rosillo, CEO and co-founder of Bell & Ross, highlights the alignment between the two companies: “Patrouille de France and Bell & Ross share common values: precision, discipline and teamwork.”

This launch is the fourth watch designed specifically for the French Patrouille de France, paying deep respect to the squadron’s heritage.

Bell & Ross designs always put the needs of professionals first, and the BR-05 Chrono Patrouille de France is no exception. The development process included consultations with the pilots themselves, ensuring the watches reflected their unique needs. While not an operational tool, the BR-05 Chrono is a “piece of honour” in the military, symbolising the elegance and harmony of the Patrouille de France aerial performances.

Launched in 2019, the BR-05 collection embodies an urban chic aesthetic while adhering to Bell & Ross’s fundamental principles of legibility, reliability and precision. Its signature design – a square case with a round dial – is inspired by aviation instruments and features an integrated bracelet for a seamless, modern look. This special edition features a blue leather strap for an added touch of luxury, echoing the Patrouille de France’s signature colour.

The dial of the BR-05 Chrono Patrouille de France pays homage to the aerobatic team. The light blue sunburst finish reflects the flight suits worn by the pilots, while the dark blue mimics the sleek fuselage of the aircraft. For an added touch of symbolism, the seconds hand features a counterweight shaped like the squadron’s iconic aircraft, the Alphajet. The Patrouille de France crest is prominently displayed on the dial and case back, depicting the “diamond” maneuver, underscoring the watch’s tribute to this elite team.

The 42mm steel case houses the BR-CAL.326 automatic chronograph movement, renowned for its power. With a 60-hour power reserve and 28,800 vibrations per hour, the movement allows for quick setting of the date, chronograph minutes and small seconds. The sapphire crystal case back offers a clear view of the movement, further enhancing the watch’s appeal.