Bell & Ross has long been celebrated for its deep ties to aviation, but the new BR-03 Chrono Rafale Solo Display takes this relationship to an entirely new altitude. Created in partnership with Dassault Aviation, this chronograph honors the Rafale fighter jet’s elite demonstration unit, blending professional-grade watchmaking with the aesthetics of modern military aviation.
Bell & Ross and the world of flight
Since its foundation in 1992, Bell & Ross has positioned itself as the horological companion of pilots, engineers, and adventurers. The brand’s signature square case—directly inspired by aircraft cockpit instruments—has become its visual trademark. Over the years, the BR collection has grown into a robust family of tool watches designed for professionals operating in extreme conditions. Collaborations with elite military units have reinforced Bell & Ross’s credibility, and this latest project with the Rafale Solo Display is perhaps its most symbolic.
A robust chronograph built for performance
At the heart of the BR-03 Chrono Rafale Solo Display lies a 42 mm matte black ceramic case, chosen for its lightweight properties and exceptional resistance to scratches. The square profile, softened by short lugs, ensures both comfort and a bold wrist presence. A sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating protects the dial, while the caseback proudly bears the engraved Rafale insignia, reinforcing the watch’s exclusivity.
Inside beats the automatic BR-CAL.301 movement, a reliable chronograph caliber based on a Swiss ETA 2894-2 architecture. Operating at 28,800 vibrations per hour, it provides a 42-hour power reserve and chronograph functions displayed through a bicompax layout. On the dial, a pulsometer scale is printed on the inner flange, a practical nod to aviation medicine, while the bidirectional bezel features a compass rose, useful for navigation references. With 100 meters of water resistance, the watch offers resilience beyond the cockpit.
The aesthetics of speed and precision
The dial is where the link to the Rafale Solo Display truly comes alive. A deep matte grey background recalls the fuselage of the fighter jet, while vibrant orange accents echo the cockpit instruments and the team’s visual identity. The small seconds at 3 o’clock is highlighted with the Rafale logo, a discreet yet powerful tribute to the French aircraft. The overall layout ensures excellent legibility, a Bell & Ross hallmark, with Super-LumiNova coating ensuring clarity even in low-light conditions.
This watch clearly speaks to enthusiasts of military aviation and high-performance design. It is not just a tool but a statement piece, designed for those who admire precision engineering and the culture of flight. While collectors will appreciate its exclusivity, pilots and aviation fans will see in it a piece of wearable heritage celebrating the Rafale’s prowess in the skies.
Price, availability, and final thoughts
The Bell & Ross BR-03 Chrono Rafale Solo Display is a limited edition of 125 pieces, underscoring its exclusivity. Priced at 6,900 USD, it is available through Bell & Ross boutiques and select authorized retailers. For collectors who value aviation history and modern tool watch aesthetics, this model offers a compelling blend of technical reliability, military symbolism, and design boldness.
Bell & Ross has once again succeeded in merging horology and aviation culture in a way that feels authentic and purposeful. And beyond the specifications, there is a simple truth: this is a watch that makes you feel closer to the skies, even with both feet on the ground. If you are a fan of the brand, check out Bell & Ross’ BR 05 Skeleton Phantom Ceramic and BR-03 Diver Lum Outline, you will be surprised…
