Review - Bell & Ross Vintage BR WW1 – 97 Power Reserve

While Bell & Ross provide a fine line in modern professional instruments for those on the front line of combat and exploration, the Swiss luxury timepiece purveyor also offers an exceptional Vintage collection. The Bell & Ross BR WW1 - 97 Power Reserve is a homage to the measurement tools used by pilots in the 1920's, and takes inspiration from the kind of timepiece issued to French soldiers during the First World War.

The subtle and elegant aesthetic is governed by a pilot’s need to see the time clearly: it features a generous 45mm case, large numeral indicators, highly visible silver hands on a black sunburst dial, anti-reflective domed sapphire crystal and a photo-luminescent coating that displays the time in the darkest of conditions. The functional design is complemented by a polished steel case, a fluted crown that can be easily used while wearing gloves, a thin-yet-strong black alligator leather strap, and a polished steel pin and buckle.

Beneath the exquisite exterior lies the functionality and mechanical ingenuity upon which Bell & Ross has built its reputation. The WW1 97 is powered by a Swiss-made mechanical automatic movement that benefits from the kind of expertise that has allowed the Franco-Swiss manufacturer to push the boundaries of watchmaking. Its technical nous is typified here by the highly impressive 97-hour power reserve – a figure that is considerably higher than the industry standard for automatic movements.

Many of the top Swiss luxury watchmakers carry collections that celebrate the early years of aviation, but few can boast such a lauded reputation for military-inspired watches. If you seek function, form and an esteemed heritage, look no further than Bell & Ross.

Click Bell & Ross Vintage WW1 Collection to view other models in the new WW1 range.