Star Performer
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DOES THE URBAN LIFESTYLE justify the use of a chronograph? Intrepid explorers of the great outdoors certainly employed it to its fullest extent. However, what about those who inhabit the “concrete jungle”? It’s true that the trappings of civilisation have removed much of life’s guesswork. However, time has always been the one constant that eludes absolute control. We grasp at it, if for nothing else than to reassure ourselves that we are still capable of doing so.
Bell & Ross’ BR 05 Chrono may just well be the perfect tool for that. The brand’s latest offering adds the chronograph complication to the collection’s “circle in a square” line-up. This extra layer of utility enhances an already impressive watch.
Four exposed screws ‒ each positioned at the corners of the bezel ‒ accentuate the 42-millimetre steel case’s muscular profile. Meanwhile, two sub-dials ‒ 30-minute counter at 9 o’clock and running seconds at 3 o’clock ‒ adorn the black sunray dial. There is little doubt concerning the legibility of the timepiece. The combination of bold Arabic numerals and hour indices and a contrasting grey chapter ring surrounding the sub-dials creates enough visual interest without being disruptive.
The added presence of chronograph pushers is sometimes a cause for concern. This is because the protrusion can cause a small amount of discomfort against the wrist. However, the pushers (along with the crown and the crown guard) of the BR 05 Chrono form a single cohesive piece which is incorporated into the side of the case.
Not only does this create a more balanced top-down perspective, but it also reduces the longitudinal bulk of the watch for more comfortable wear.
Adding to the streamlined nature of the
BR 05 Chrono is the integrated bracelet. Whether on a steel bracelet or rubber strap, both options flow seamlessly into the case. The links of the bracelet, aside from being emblematic of the BR 05 Chrono’s case shape, also conform to the natural contours of the wrist. This gives the bracelet a level of wearability that rivals that of its softer rubber counterpart.
Returning to the case, a combination of both satin-finished and polished surfaces lends contrast and adds dimension to the otherwise stoic aesthetic of the BR 05 Chrono. The stepped bezel tightens the focus on the dial, which also comes with an antireflective sapphire crystal. Combined with the integrated bracelet, the BR 05 Chrono stands as a very modern interpretation of a classic explorer’s timepiece, bolstered by the undeniable functionality of a chronograph for keeping time. AM