Fighter jets and mechanical watches have more in common than you might think. Both require split-second decision making, both thrive under extreme conditions, and both represent the pinnacle of their respective engineering disciplines. Bell & Ross has been working this angle since 1994, and their latest limited edition with Rafale stunt team might be their most emblematic release ever.
Built for the Cockpit
Since 2005, the BR-03 has been Bell & Ross’s most recognizable silhouette, and for good reason. That distinctive square case with rounded corners and exposed screws is a direct homage to aircraft instrument panels. The 42mm case here gets the full ceramic treatment, using microblasted black ceramic that’s both lightweight and virtually scratchproof.
But the real story is in the details that matter when you’re pulling 9Gs in a Rafale. The chronograph pushers are engraved with “START” and “RESET” and filled with orange and yellow lacquer, making them instantly recognizable even with gloved hands. The matte black dial features large white Arabic numerals and hands filled with Super-LumiNova X1 for maximum legibility, while orange chronograph hands provide immediate visual separation from the time display.
The yellow dotted line surrounding the date window at 6 o’clock mimics aircraft warning markings, and the subtle Rafale Solo Display logo adds authenticity without overwhelming the design.
A Proven Partnership
After joining forces with the Patrouille de France in 2021, Bell & Ross’s collaboration with the France’s elite Rafale Solo Display demonstration team is a natural evolution of the brand’s aviation partnerships.
The Rafale Solo Display pilots are among the world’s most skilled aviators, performing nine-minute sequences of breathtaking maneuvers that showcase the technological superiority of Dassault Aviation’s flagship fighter.
Technical Excellence
The BR-CAL.301 movement powering this chronograph is based on the reliable ETA 2894-2, offering 42 hours of power reserve, central chronograph seconds, a 30-minute totalizer at 9 o’clock, and small seconds at 3 o’clock.
Water resistance is rated to 100m and the sapphire crystal features anti-reflective coating to maintain dial legibility under varying conditions.
Bell & Ross offers two strap options here, including the hook-and-loop fabric strap with Rafale Solo Display branding for a professional pilot aesthetic, and an alternative black open-worked rubber strap.
Spec Sheet
Model: BR-03 Chrono Rafale Solo Display
Case: 42mm
Case Material: Microblasted black ceramic
Crystal: Sapphire with anti-reflective coating
Movement: In-house BR-CAL.301 (ETA 2894-2 base) automatic
Water Resistance: 100m
Straps: Black rubber and black fabric with Rafale Solo Display logo
Limited Edition?: Yes, 500
Pricing & Availability
Limited to 500 pieces, the Bell & Ross BR-03 Chrono Rafale Solo Display is up for pre-order now for $6,000.
Recap
Bell & Ross BR-03 Chrono Rafale Solo Display
Bell & Ross takes its aviation inspiration to the extreme with this partnership with France’s elite Rafale demonstration team, featuring a scratch-resistant ceramic case and cockpit-inspired details
