SOARING

HighBELL & ROSS MARKS THE 70th ANNIVERSARY OF PATROUILLE DE FRANCE WITH ITS VERY OWN LIMITED EDITION TIMEPIECE

After what seems to be a lifetime of conquering the skies, Patrouille de France marks its 70th anniversary alongside partner Bell & Ross by unveiling a limited edition BR 03-92. With only less than a thousand pieces available, aviation enthusiasts are bound to be enamoured by the spirit of the aerobatics unit captured by the wristwatch. In addition, the timepiece is also paired with functional design and a Swiss made movement, which equals the excellence of the reputable Patrouille de France.

By Karina Saphiera Witjaksono

Sheathed in a unique rounded square-shaped case, the BR 03-92 Patrouille de France 70th Anniversary timepiece reflects the essence of the special unit. The ceramic case, which is treated with a black coating and adorned by four bolts, highlights the aesthetics of the dial. Against the blue of the dial, the colour of which resembles the unit’s Alpha Jet, the markers and writings are kept simple in white, be it the tip of the hands, the Bell & Ross logo, or even the BR 03-92 mark. In addition to the usual hour, minutes, and seconds functions, the timepiece also features a minimalist date window between 4 and 5 o’clock.

Powered by the BR-CAL. 302 automatic mechanical movement, the functional timepiece showcases the Patrouille de France logo at 9 o’clock and the 70th anniversary emblem at 3 o’clock. The former can also be found on the calfskin strap, which has the same blue hue. Another strap option in black synthetic canvas is also made available for those looking for a style change.

Though the overall design of the timepiece has clearly been dedicated to this milestone, it is the small details that really make this watch special. Of note are the small touches of red, white, and dark blue hues used as an ode to the French flag. Aside from the logos on the dial, these colours can be seen on the threads embellishing the calfskin strap, as well as the thin border near the perimeter of the dial. In addition to the colour palette, the haute horologist has also hidden yet another gem on the back of the timepiece. Engraved onto the microblasted ceramic are silhouettes of aircrafts

POWERED BY THE BRCAL. 302 AUTOMATIC MECHANICAL MOVEMENT, THE FUNCTIONAL TIMEPIECE SHOWCASES THE PATROUILLE DE FRANCE LOGO AT 9 O’CLOCK AND THE 70th ANNIVERSARY EMBLEM AT 3 O’CLOCK that have shaped Patrouille de France’s history. From the 1953 Republic F-84 G Thunderjet to the 1981 Dassault Alpha Jet, this timepiece is the first of its kind that allows one to marvel over all of the aircrafts at any given time. By adding this display, Bell & Ross expertly highlights Patrouille de France’s exceptional milestones whilst still serving reliable functionality all in one timepiece.

Flying in unison since 1953, the Patrouille de France is a world-renowned aerobatic team that has won the hearts of many. The special unit, which falls under the French Air and Space Force, is known for its top tier pilots and agile demonstrations. With values and discipline such as theirs, it comes as no surprise that the renowned Patrouille de France joins hands with a like-minded partner and haute horologist for the auspicious celebration of its 70th anniversary.

Constantly in pursuit of excellence, Bell & Ross has crafted unparalleled timepieces since 1992. Its meticulous mastery of functional yet luxurious watches has drawn the attention of enthusiasts and partners from various backgrounds, but even more so from niche professions. Unlike other haute horologists, Bell & Ross continues to test the limits of watchmaking and creates designs to fit extreme circumstances or professions, be it for divers, pilots, or race car drivers. Some of its most legendary lines include the Instruments and the Vintage collections, both of which cater to different target groups. Nevertheless, the haute horologist has an incomparable expertise in luxury watchmaking. It reserves more complex and luxurious designs such as the BR-X1 Tourbillon for avid watch enthusiasts.