Company Overview
In 1992, childhood friends Bruno Belamich and Carlos A. Rosillo founded Bell & Ross with a singular vision: to manufacture functional, robust, and precise watches for professionals operating in extreme environments. Their vision transformed into a brand renowned for its uniquely functional designs and high-quality Swiss movements.
Bell & Ross was conceived in Paris, France, but the founders looked to Switzerland – the epicenter of world horology – for the manufacturing and production of their timepieces. This cross-border synergy infused the brand with a French design aesthetic and Swiss watchmaking precision.
Bell & Ross’s breakthrough came in 2005 with the launch of the BR 01. Inspired by aeronautical instrumentation, the BR 01’s distinctive square case and round dial represented the “circle within a square” design philosophy of aircraft instruments. This watch became an iconic representation of the brand and the starting point for a series of Instrument watches.
The brand continued to draw inspiration from the world of aviation and military history, both in terms of design and functionality. Whether it’s the cockpit of the latest jet fighter or the specifications of a bomb disposal unit, the key elements of readability, performance, precision, and water-resistance have been integral to Bell & Ross timepieces.
Bell & Ross also explores other areas, such as motor racing and diving, designing collections such as Vintage, BR-X1, and BR 05. These collections showcase the brand’s versatility and ability to create timepieces that are both functional and stylish.
Today, Bell & Ross is recognized for its ability to fuse the reliability of Swiss watchmaking with a powerful and distinctive design ethos. Its timepieces, designed under the brand’s four guiding principles, are trusted by professionals around the world – astronauts, pilots, divers, and bomb disposal experts. At the same time, its watches have captivated a broader audience of watch enthusiasts and collectors who appreciate the brand’s unique combination of precision and style.
Bell & Ross’s story is a testament to a vision that transformed a small French startup into a globally recognized watch brand. It continues to redefine the conventions of traditional watchmaking with its commitment to innovation, precision, and craftsmanship.
Notable Achievements
Bell & Ross is best known for its BR 01 series of aviation watches. These watches, with their distinctive square cases and dial designs inspired by aircraft instrument panels, have become iconic in the industry.
Key Collections
The BR 01 and BR 03 Instrument collections, along with the Vintage, BR-X1 and BR 05 collections, are among the brand’s most notable lines. Each collection reflects the brand’s commitment to utility and performance, encapsulated in unique designs.
Brand Philosophy
Bell & Ross stands by four guiding principles: legibility, functionality, reliability, and precision. These principles help the brand create timepieces suited to professional use, especially in demanding fields such as aviation and diving.
Craftsmanship
Bell & Ross watches are renowned for their precise Swiss movements and robust design. Their bold aesthetic often merges the worlds of contemporary design and military history.
Celebrity Affiliations
Bell & Ross timepieces are trusted by professionals in extreme environments, including astronauts, pilots, divers, and bomb disposal experts. In addition, the brand has found favor among watch enthusiasts and celebrities for its distinctive, functional design.