Bell & Ross makes two watches that most buyers choose between: the BR 03, the square watch that looks like a cockpit instrument, and the BR 05, the sports watch with an integrated bracelet. They share a design language and feel quite different on the wrist.
Where the look comes from
Bell & Ross was founded in 1992 by Bruno Belamich and Carlos Rosillo. Its watches are inspired by professional instruments, especially aircraft cockpit gauges. The signature is a round dial in a square case with four visible screws, a shape that reads like an instrument taken from a panel.
The BR 05, introduced in 2019, applied that shape to an integrated-bracelet sports watch.
At a glance
| BR 03 | BR 05 | |
|---|---|---|
| Idea | The square instrument watch | The integrated-bracelet sports watch |
| Case sizes in our stock | 41 mm and 42 mm | 40 mm, 41 mm and 42 mm |
| Materials in our stock | Ceramic, steel, bronze | Steel, ceramic |
| Movement | Automatic | Automatic |
| Water resistance | 100 m on most; 300 m on the Diver | 100 m |
| Usually worn on | Rubber or fabric strap | Steel bracelet or rubber |
Figures are those of the watches listed with us; always confirm them on the listing.
How they wear
Square watches wear larger than their diameter suggests. A 41 or 42 mm BR 03 covers more of the wrist than a round watch of the same size, because the corners add area. Compare it with a watch you already own, or use the Real size button on our product pages.
The BR 05 has softened corners and a bracelet that flows from the case, so it sits closer to a conventional sports watch.
Versions to know
- BR 03 Diver: the square case with a rotating bezel and 300 meters of water resistance.
- BR 03 in ceramic: cases in ceramic instead of steel.
- BR 05 GMT: a second time zone in the 41 mm case.
- BR 05 Skeleton: an openworked dial, often in ceramic.
Which one should you buy?
Choose the BR 03 if you want the watch the brand is known for, you like the tool-watch look, and you are happy with a strap.
Choose the BR 05 if you want one watch for every day, prefer a bracelet, and want the Bell & Ross shape in a softer form.
Many models come on rubber straps; check whether a second strap is included with the watch.
Every watch we sell is checked by our specialist before it ships. We are an independent retailer, not an authorized dealer of the brand; the listing says what comes with each watch.
Shop the Bell & Ross BR 03, the Bell & Ross BR 05, or all Bell & Ross watches.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between the BR 03 and the BR 05?
The BR 03 is the square instrument watch, usually worn on a strap. The BR 05, introduced in 2019, is a sports watch with softened corners and an integrated bracelet.
Does a square watch wear bigger than a round one?
Yes. A square case covers more of the wrist than a round case of the same diameter, so compare it with a watch you own before choosing a size.
Can I swim with a Bell & Ross?
Most BR 03 and BR 05 models listed with us are water resistant to 100 meters; the BR 03 Diver is rated to 300 meters. Check the rating on the listing.
Why do Bell & Ross watches look like cockpit instruments?
That is the idea behind the brand: watches inspired by professional instruments, especially aircraft gauges.
