If we ever needed proof that time was relative, it’s the fact that Bell & Ross’  take on an integrated bracelet — the BR-05 — was released way back in 2019. While it might have been a surprise move when it debuted, over the years, the softened take on the square shape has become a critical hit and an ever more important part of the brand’s offering. The latest release — the BR-05 Skeleton Phantom Ceramic- is a great example of just how versatile the BR-05 model can be.

As with all Bell & Ross’ offerings, inspiration starts in the sky. This particular example draws from a long lineage of ‘phantom’ watches by the brand, dating back to 2007, and inspired — you guessed it — by the light (and radar) absorbing livery of stealth aircraft. On top of this, there’s a certain sculptural, almost architectural bent to the design of the BR-05, which is amplified thanks to the stainless steel ceramic case that has been used this time around.

Speaking of the case, it’s well sized at 41mm, and the vertical satin brush is interspersed with highly polished elements (on the side of the case, and most notably the centre links of the bracelet. There are other benefits to the ceramic case beyond the aesthetic links to sneaky planes. Ceramic is hard-wearing and lightweight, making it a great choice for a sporty bracelet watch like the BR-05. Of course, on a completely monochrome watch like this you have to be wary of things getting too boring and same-samey. Bell & Ross have avoided this potential roadblock by skeletonising the dial. A tinted transparent dial plate allows the wearer a view of the  Caliber BR-CAL.322-1, developed specifically for Bell & Ross. The prominent dial flange anchors the baton hour markers, which, like the hands, are filled with grey Super-LumiNova, which gives off a vibrant green glow.

It’s great to see the BR-05 evolve over the years, and this stealthy ceramic option is a solid example of how Bell & Ross continues to stay true to its core of square, function-focused watches, while still maintaining contemporary cachet.

Tech Specs: Bell & Ross BR-05 Skeleton Phantom Ceramic

Movement: Caliber BR-CAL.322-1, automatic mechanical, 54-hour power reserve
Functions: Hours, minutes, seconds
Case: Black polished-satin ceramic, 41 x 11.2mm, water-resistant to 100M
Dial: Skeletonised, black
Strap: Black ceramic or black rubber
Availability: Limited edition of 500 pieces