
Luminous, lightweight, exclusive, bold design
There's something about the allure of the night—the way the city lights play against the darkness, casting shadows and revealing secrets. The Bell & Ross BR-X5 Blue Lum captures that essence, merging cutting-edge innovation with a design that speaks to those who live life unafraid of the shadows.
Unveiled in 2023, this timepiece isn't just another watch; it's a luminous statement. The fully luminescent case is crafted from Bell & Ross's proprietary photoluminescent LM3D composite material. This isn't your typical glow-in-the-dark gimmick. The LM3D composite combines epoxy quartz fiber, luminescent material, and resin to create a uniform glow that's 70% lighter than steel. It's a material born from innovation, ensuring the watch is both lightweight and mesmerizing when the lights go down.
The 41mm soft square case, a signature shape for Bell & Ross, sits comfortably on the wrist at 12.8mm thick. Its construction is a masterclass in modern watchmaking: upper and lower inserts of the luminescent LM3D composite sandwich a middle case section made from black DLC (diamond-like carbon) titanium. This not only adds depth to the design but also enhances durability. The bezel, crown, crown guards, and caseback are all crafted from this microblasted titanium, offering a rugged contrast to the ethereal glow of the LM3D.
Beneath the sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating lies a matte black dial. The block applique indices are filled with blue Super-LumiNova®, echoing the luminescence of the case. Skeletonized hour and minute hands, also coated in blue Super-LumiNova® and filled with black lacquer, sweep across the dial with precision. At 9 o'clock, a power reserve indicator keeps you informed, balanced by a date window at 3 o'clock—functional elegance at its finest.
At the heart of this watch beats the automatic BR-CAL.323 movement, developed in collaboration with Kenissi. It's not just reliable; it's COSC-certified, promising accuracy that's backed by a 5-year guarantee. With a 70-hour power reserve, it's ready to keep up with whatever adventures await, day or night.
The BR-X5 Blue Lum is more than just a pretty face; it's engineered for the real world. Water-resistant up to 100 meters, it's prepared for unexpected downpours or spontaneous dives. The openworked black rubber strap ensures comfort without compromising style, fastening securely with a folding steel buckle finished in DLC.
Limited to just 500 pieces and priced at $13,300, this watch isn't for everyone—and that's precisely the point. It's for those who appreciate the fusion of artistry and technology, who aren't afraid to stand out in a world of conformity. Delivery begins at the end of October 2024, and it's available for pre-order only.
In a market saturated with timepieces that blend into the background, the Bell & Ross BR-X5 Blue Lum refuses to be ignored. It's a watch for the innovators, the night owls, the ones who understand that sometimes, the most extraordinary things happen when the sun goes down.
Here’s a breakdown of the pros and cons of the Bell & Ross BR-X5 Blue Lum:
Pros:
- Innovative Luminescent Material: The use of Bell & Ross' proprietary LM3D composite makes the case glow uniformly and creates a striking visual appeal, especially at night or in low-light environments. It's a unique and advanced feature rarely seen in other watches.
- Lightweight Design: The LM3D composite is 70% lighter than steel, making the watch incredibly comfortable to wear despite its robust construction.
- High-Quality Movement: The BR-CAL.323 automatic movement, developed in collaboration with Kenissi, is COSC-certified for precision and offers a 70-hour power reserve, ensuring reliability.
- Durable Materials: The combination of DLC titanium and sapphire crystal provides a strong, scratch-resistant casing that enhances both durability and a sleek aesthetic.
- Limited Edition Appeal: With only 500 pieces available, this watch carries a certain exclusivity, making it a highly collectible item for enthusiasts.
- Water Resistance: With a water resistance rating of 100 meters, it’s practical for daily wear and light water activities.
Cons:
- High Price Point: At $13,300, the BR-X5 Blue Lum is a significant investment, limiting its accessibility to more affluent buyers or serious collectors.
- Niche Appeal: The heavily luminescent design, while innovative, may not appeal to those who prefer a more classic or understated look.
- Limited Availability: Being a limited edition with only 500 pieces, securing one could be a challenge, especially for those not quick to pre-order.
- Specific Styling: The 41mm case size and unique square shape may not suit everyone’s wrist or aesthetic preferences, particularly for those who favor traditional round watches.
- Rubber Strap: While the openworked rubber strap adds comfort, some might find it less luxurious compared to leather or metal options at this price point.
$13,300