When Bell & Ross introduced the BR-05 back in 2019, it was a definite departure from their aviation-inspired models, bringing something more accessible for day-to-day wear. Fast-forward six years, and the collection has proven it’s here to stay and has been given several iterations. The latest addition, the BR-05 Skeleton Phantom Ceramic, shows how the BR-05 case has matured since its introduction while also dialing the stealth factor up to eleven.
The Phantom Legacy Runs Deep
Bell & Ross has been perfecting the art of the all-black timepiece since 2007 with the original BR-01 Phantom. Drawing inspiration from stealth aircraft technology — specifically the radar-absorbing materials and coatings that make fighter jets invisible — the Phantom aesthetic has become synonymous with the brand’s military-inspired identity. And what started as a niche offering has evolved into one of their most recognizable design languages, appearing across multiple collections over nearly two decades.
For the latest installment, Bell & Ross has taken their existing BR-05 Skeleton Black Ceramic from last year and refined the details. Where the previous model featured white luminous material and polished accents, this Phantom edition commits fully to the monochromatic aesthetic with black lume and matching black-finished hands and indices.
Ceramic Done Right
Stretching 41mm across and 11.2mm thick, the case’s black ceramic isn’t new territory for high-end watchmaking, but Bell & Ross has executed it with some of the most gorgeous finishing we’ve seen for the coated material. The brushed surfaces play against polished elements on the case sides and bracelet center links, creating visual nuance that prevents the all-black aesthetic from feeling monotonous.
Ceramic brings practical advantages beyond the stealth looks, as it’s significantly lighter than steel while offering superior scratch resistance. It’s also become a great canvas for color design, although black might still be our favorite.
Seeing Through the Darkness
Creating a skeletonized effect, Bell & Ross uses a tinted sapphire crystal for the dial surface, revealing the BR-CAL.322-1 automatic movement underneath, albeit while keeping the dark aesthetic. Oftentimes, openworked watches can be difficult to read, but the smoky effect here allows you to still use the watch for what it’s intended for.
Also visible through the caseback, the BR-CAL.322-1 is Bell & Ross’s approach to in-house caliber, albeit built on the Sellita SW300 architecture. Here, it’s been extensively modified and skeletonized specifically for the brand, running at 28,800vph with a 54-hour power reserve.
Anchoring themselves to the dial’s outer edge, the baton-style hour markers are filled with grey Super-LumiNova that glows green at night. It’s also worth noting that colored lume typically sacrifice some brightness compared to standard white lume, but the trade-off is welcomed for the Phantom vibe.
Completing the package, the integrated bracelet is also made of black ceramic, and looks even more stunning that it ever has. However, if you want something more traditional, there’s a black rubber strap option as well.
Spec Sheet
Model: BR-05 Skeleton Phantom Ceramic
Case Material: Black ceramic
Case Size: 41mm
Case Thickness: 11.2mm
Movement: BR-CAL.322-1 automatic
Power Reserve: 54 hours
Water Resistance: 100m
Crystal: Sapphire
Band: Integrated black ceramic bracelet or black rubber strap
Limited Edition?: Yes, 500
Pricing & Availability
Limited to 500 pieces, the BR-05 Skeleton Phantom Ceramic is priced at $8,900 on the rubber strap or $9,800 with the matching ceramic bracelet — a $100 premium over the standard-production Black Ceramic model. It’s available now from Bell & Ross’ authorized dealers and their website.
Recap
Bell & Ross BR-05 Skeleton Phantom Ceramic
Bell & Ross turned its BR-05 Skeleton Ceramic into a stealthy timepiece with the new Phantom version, including a tinted sapphire dial so you can see the movement below.
