Bell & Ross - Thoughts?

[Ikemi]

I'm in the process of saving for my next decent watch and have been browsing the Interweb for something that takes my fancy. I must admit that this is a pretty pointless topic, as I don't have the spare cash to throw at any of these watches yet ... However I like to choose something to aim for and I then make it my goal to obtain - Hopefully in 2010

I'm drooling after a Glashutte Panomatic Reserve, but second hand would be the only way! I quite like the Bell&Ross BR01-94 chronograph, the BR01-97 Reserve or if discount is brought into the equation, the BR01-94 chronograph titanium

A little research on another watch related forum suggests that most people feel that Bell&Ross are simply a brand name with a unique design, but use cheap and simple ETA movements. Is this the case? I realise ETA movements are very good and reliable, but if no additional modifications have been undertaken, it doesn't particularly seem 'special' ... Especially if it is encased in several thousands worth of metal!

What are your thoughts on Bell&Ross? Overpriced, underrated, horrible or unique?

Any other suggestions welcome for a modern, everyday watch on bracelet or strap for up to £3-4K ... Display back or power reserve are bonuses!

[Slagathore]

I quite like them!

Love the Phantom model, looks really stealthy.

I saw a guy wearing a BR 01 96 Commando not that long a go at a concert. It really stood out. It wasn't as imposing and 'in your face' as I was expecting.

[MarkoTVR]

Personally I like them. Love the BR01 Pro Titanium.....lush!

[deejuic]

Love the Phantoms, however, the BR01s are way too big for me. I prefer the BR03s

[stevoknevo]

I have been lusting after a BR 01 92 Automatic Blue Carbon (BR-007)for quite some time now

[B16JUS]

i like them, but by god are they big.

look at second hand though as they dont seem to hold well

[whoami]

Horrible and overpriced (to use two of your suggestions )

[andy tims]

Overpriced when new & therefore prone to depreciation if you're likely to sell on.

The big ones really are huge.

Can't get past the fact that on a watch that expensive they don't get the 4 screws on the front of the case aligned - would mess with my OCD big time if I had one.

[fivesixseven8]

Personally, I don't think they are worth the money. The BR01's do look good (the phantom especially,) but IMO, are a bit of a fad.
I prefer the BR02 myself. Still a lot of money for what it is though. Tempted by a Steinhart Aviation as it looks almost the same and is a fraction of the cost!

[Stitch]

deejuic said:

Love the Phantoms, however, the BR01s are way too big for me. I prefer the BR03s

+1

The BR03 is plenty big enough.

[Stu R]

Love them, cartainly amongst my favourites

[theaxe]

I really like them but I do wonder if they'll age well.

[RTBmotorsport]

I have owned a BR03 Carbon for 2 years now- I decided to I had to have it after seeing an advert in Octane magazine (never realised the cost at the time!)
Still looks fantastic, not too big (the BR01 might be). If you like the design, you will never get bored of looking at it.
I'll pop some pics up later.

[Don1]

Never heard of them....

[mackg]

[ I quite like the Bell&Ross BR01-94 chronograph, the BR01-97 Reserve or if discount is brought into the equation, the BR01-94 chronograph titanium

I tried the Pro Titanium on in Ocho Rio Jamaica at an AD and could have had the watch for £3800, could be worth trying the AD, the contact details are on the Bell & Ross website

[Don1]

Have a chat with our Dom H of Hackett Watches also...

[Ikemi]

Wow! Lots of replies!

I guess I'd have to try on the BR01 and BR03 models to see which best suits my rather large (7.5") wrists! Although I prefer the chronograph design and the reserve design on the BR01 watches, rather than the BR03 variants. As a reference, my 45.5mm PO is perfect and sits comfortably, whereas the 42mm version looked too small! Are the 46mm BR01's really huge in comparison to a 45.5mm PO?

@Andy tims: I think it would annoy me even more if the screws were aligned!
@RTBMotorsport: Some pictures would be excellent, especially some wrist shots!
@Don1: Nice collection! What is the BR01-97 Reserve like to wear on a day-to-day basis? Does it keep good time?

Second hand might be a good way to go ... I see Chronomaster have a small selection, as do Blowers Jewellers ... Is there anywhere else that deals with second hand Bell&Ross watches with exception to TZ-UK (now that they've limited the selling forum to 25 posts)?

Cheers!

Edited by Ikemi on Tuesday 15th December 22:47

[Don1]

The 01-97 is actually my daily wear. It's currently +1 min per month or so, and I can live with that. My only gripe (for all oversize watches), is the difficulty getting shirts that can actually cover the piece. And I have seen some smaller people wearing them, looking like they were kids wearing their dads watch (I'm 6ft 3+ and 17stone...- big man, big watch!).

[ApexJimi]

andy tims said:

Can't get past the fact that on a watch that expensive they don't get the 4 screws on the front of the case aligned - would mess with my OCD big time if I had one.

Me too, would drive me insane, ditto with the Hublot Big Bangs

[leginigel]

Have a look at lum tec same detail at lot less cost.