The watchmaker’s partnership with Renault Sport Formula One Team continues
The Bell & Ross BR 03-94 R.S.18 (limited to 999 pieces), which debuted at this year’s Baselworld, is about as unabashed a homage to motor racing as could be conceived. The watchmaker’s signature square-shaped BR format is quite at home in racing livery: tyre-tread black rubber strap, carbon fibre dial, and a lightweight microblasted titanium case. It is a chronograph, of course, one of a series that celebrates the brand’s three-year partnership with Renault Sport Formula One Team (which, incidentally, introduced its R.S.18 car chassis for the 2018 season).
It is the little things that stand out on this watch. The yellow chronograph seconds hand and tachymeter track make for a striking contrast with the black carbon fibre dial, and are a direct nod the team colours of Renault Sport. The subdials are skeletonised, allowing tantalising glimpses of the mechanical movement underneath. The most fun element, however, must be the chronograph pushers: a rocker-switch design coloured a screaming red, and unmistakably inspired by paddle shifters. It is a daring touch on top of an already distinctive timepiece — and yet, despite its unorthodox looks, the 42mm watch is surprisingly svelte when worn. It has a demure sort of boldness, one that belongs behind the steering wheel but can tone it down for a nice dinner.
