As a brand that specialises in aeronautical instruments, it makes perfect sense that Bell & Ross to have one of the most useful and essential complications in horology – the GMT function. First developed to meet the needs and specifications of aviators and pilots, the complication has grown in popularity to appeal to frequent globetrotters and multihyphenates who need to keep track of multiple time zones simultaneously when travelling.
In 2007, the French-Swiss watchmaker launched its first GMT instrument, the BR 03-51 GMT TITANIUM, and over the years Bell & Ross have fitted the complications on their sporty timepieces, including a carbon model, its Vintage series, and the BR V2-93 GMT Blue that was launched in 2020. Today, the brand gives the BR 03-93 GMT an update, staying true to the flagship model but with a more modern design, as well as enhanced functionality and legibility.
This updated version now provides the time in three different locations around the world, with the GMT hand standing out with its large red triangle for perfect visibility in day or night. Spinning around the dial in 24 hours, this fourth hand displays a second time zone (or the local time on a 24-hour scale). And for the first time, Bell & Ross’ iconic square case is modified to welcome a new bi-directional bezel, which enables the reading of the second time zone and display a third time zone. Rotating it clockwise subtracts hours and anticlockwise adds hours.
While the black sunray dial and white photoluminescent numerals and indexes nod to the traditional colour palette used in cockpits for optimal reading, the bezel takes on a black and red gradient. The red section – known for its clear and dynamic properties – indicates daytime, while the black backgrounds nighttime. Fashioned form anodised aluminium, this two-tone bezel not only provides an arresting visual contrast, but also a clear view for discerning time reading.
Powering the new BR 03-93 GMT instrument is the robust BR-CAL.303 automatic movement, with 4Hz frequency, a 42 power reserve and water resistance of up to 100 metres. The watch is completed with a matte black calfskin leather strap with a steel pin buckle. An ultra-resilient black synthetic fabric strap also comes included.
Available for purchase at RM17,000, more details can also be found on the official Bell & Ross website.
Photos: Bell & Ross