Felix Scholz
We've already met the brooding chunk of finely machined steel that is the BR03-94 AeroGT chronograph. Well, today we're having a look at its?less complicated brother the BR03-92 AeroGT.While the fundamentals of this time-only AeroGT are very similar to the many other BR03-92 models namely the square 42mm case, the distinctive case screws, short lugs and chunky strap – in reality this feels like a completely different watch. That’s thanks to the stripped back, cut-away dial and the slick rally strap, complete with go-faster red piping. Aside from being incredibly fun to wear, this watch demonstrates Bell & Ross's formidable design prowess.The bold military styling of the very first Bell & Ross instrument watch was crucial in rocketing the?French brand?to popularity in the early to mid-2000s, but as with?its?peers and competitors Panerai and Hublot, a?recognisable design?can?be something of a blessing and a curse.?After all, continuing to create interesting and appealing watches that conform to the same essential DNA?must be a challenge. The solution for Bell & Ross has been to avoid repetition by constantly reinventing its?square icon, using new materials and developing smart?aviation-inspired associations, such as the skull-emblazoned Airborne collection and last year’s Rafale tie-in.The AeroGT concept carThe story for this collection?is a little different. This time, Bell & Ross has gone so far as to design a?concept car the AeroGT encapsulating?the fusion between the aviation and high-end automotive worlds, in a neat?evolution of the?B-Rocket motorbike from 2011. A clever idea and a great design, this has generated?a lot of positive buzz and two (so far) very handsome watches.The key element of the AeroGT watches is the technically skeletonised dial, something that, up until now, has been?the preserve of the top-line BR-X1 timepieces. It's good to see Bell & Ross using this look in other aviation models – and not just because it’s en trend at the moment. More importantly, it genuinely suits the industrial aesthetic of the design, resulting in a fresh, modern take on the classic Bell & Ross design.Bell & Ross BR03-92 AeroGT Australian pricing and availabilityThe Bell & Ross BR03-92 AeroGT, $7800, limited to 500 pieces worldwide
27.07.16