Bell & Ross - BR-X1 Chronograph Tourbillon

The BR-X1, a high-tech chronograph with sporty looks, which is as robust as it is sophisticated, marked the arrival of a new Bell & Ross line and the beginning of a whole new chapter in the saga of the brand.


Revolutionary in its design and also inspired by aeronautical flight instruments, the BR-X1 line expands with a new exceptional Haute Horlogerie version: the BR-X1 Chronograph Tourbillon. This precious measuring instrument combines the extremely virile aesthetic codes of the brand with the technical refinement of Bell & Ross’ Haute Horlogerie.

An armoured, ingenious, muscular and technical watch, the BR-X1 has always stood out thanks to the innovative design of its 45 mm multi-material case. The functional, non-indexed screws, the single-piece structure of the case and the rocker pushers for the chronograph functions were designed to contribute to the sturdiness and ergonomy of the watch. A thumb rest insert is integrated at nine o’clock for optimised handling when activating the chronograph functions. The ultra masculine and revolutionary architecture of this new generation go-anywhere timepiece allowed for infinite combinations in the design phase opening up a vast potential for creativity. The new BR-X1 Chronograph Tourbillon is the ultimate symbol of Bell & Ross’ watchmaking expertise and the first chapter of an evolution that combines grand complication and faithfulness to the aeronautical inspiration that the brand cherishes.

The sophisticated and contemporary expression of an ultra virile high-tech line of watches, the "fuselage" of the BR-X1 brings Bell & Ross into new territory in creative watchmaking, who have always made professional timepieces that meet exacting requirements in terms of legibility, functionality, precision and reliability. The integration of several fine complications (tourbillon, mono-pusher chronograph, power reserve indicator) in the square, rugged case of the BR-X1 firmly emphasises the intention to combine Haute Horlogerie with extreme robustness, refinement with professional instrumentation and tradition with a desire for modernity. A singular watch, the BR-X1 Chronograph Tourbillon is all this, and much more.

A skeleton tourbillon mono-pusher chronograph, this new generation BR-X1, with column wheel movement, displays hours and minutes in the centre for a traditional display, as well as a 100 hour (4 days) power reserve indicator at 9 o’clock. A watch of extreme sophistication, the BR-X1 Chronograph Tourbillon also has a 30-minute counter at 10 o’clock and a 60 second counter at 2 o’clock for the chronograph functions. The function is engaged by the mono-pusher rocker – positioned at 2 o’clock – which controls the Start, Stop and Reset functions. A rare horological feature, the minute counter of the chronograph features a semi ¬instantaneous jumping hand, rather than the traditional sweeping hand.

The seconds counter of the chronograph is a 6 impulse per second sweeping hand. The perfectly executed skeletonising of the movement, in a very contemporary style and finish, allows the exceptional mechanics of this "horological turbine" to be observed when starting, stopping and resetting the chronograph. The movement of the clutch lever at 4 o’clock and the engagement of the clutch wheel can be observed, like an incredibly technical horological ballet. The resetting strikers are clearly visible at 11 o’clock and 1 o’clock. The sophisticated centrepiece of this high end movement, the column wheel, enables smoother operation of the chronograph functions as they are engaged – something that is highly valued by lovers of fine watches. The tourbillon, clearly visible in its cage positioned at 6 o’clock, serves as the ultimate guarantee of precision.

Packed with high-tech sophistication, the BR-X1 Chronograph Tourbillon is available in two versions: grade 5 titanium or rose gold, with or without diamond setting. Ultra light and very durable, the grade 5 titanium model, with its various shades of grey, is the more virile looking. Grade 5 titanium is a grade of titanium used in aeronautics, developed for its superior properties in hardness, durability and resistance to corrosion, erosion and high temperatures (stable up to 600°C). Grade 5 titanium alloy is an alloy reinforced with vanadium and aluminium to make it 40% lighter and 60% harder than steel.

In its "fuselage" of 18 carat rose gold, the BR-X1 Chronograph Tourbillon places greater emphasis on elegance and its precious aspects, without losing an ounce of its technical features and sturdiness. It offers a more delicate appearance to the virile shape of this ergonomically proven ultimate professional tool. Both versions are also available in jewel-encrusted versions: 46 baguette-cut diamonds (2.3 carat) set into a grade 5 titanium bezel for the titanium model and 46 baguette-cut diamonds (2.3 carat) set into a titanium rose gold bezel for the rose gold model to bring a very special sparkle to the wearer.

The specifications :


Case:
- Diameter : 45mm
- Material : Grade 5 Titanium / 18K rose gold
- Bezel set with 46 baguette-cut diamonds (optional)

- Water resistance : 100 meters
- Sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating

Movement:
- Calibre : BR-CAL.283
- Chronograph tourbillon
- hand-wound mono-pusher
- Power reserve : 4 days
- Frequency : 21,600 vph
- Functions : Hours, minutes, 30-minute counter (10 o'clock), small seconds (3 o'clock), power reserve indicator (9 o'clock), flying tourbillon (6 o'clock)