Jewellery and watchmaking unite as Bell & Ross looks to high jewellery codes for the creation of two precious new watches.
The BR 05 Skeleton Gold, available in a limited edition of 99 pieces, is crafted wholly from rose gold in a sensual juxtaposition of curves and angles. A case and satin-finished bracelet make an elegant foil for the high technicality of the open dial. In the BR 05 Diamond, diamond-studded links interwoven in the bracelet bring a chic sparkle to steel.
Despite the use of precious materials and stones, the watches stay faithful to familiar Bell & Ross design codes, with the square case, round dial and four screws of the BR 05 family all present. As well as these signature design details, the brand has embraced new techniques in these pieces.
For the BR 05, we really worked on the finishing touches to give the watch that precious, jewel-like feel,’ says Bruno Belamich, creative director and co-founder of Bell & Ross. ‘The polished/satin finishes create a contrast and enhance the watch in every aspect. With the polishing technique, we obtain a shiny surface that will reflect the light. Satin finishing, on the other hand, is a matte and sophisticated technique. It creates a silky surface with subtle nuances that will catch the light.’
The use of precious stones was not without its challenges: ‘The main one was to define a harmonious design and choose the size and position of each stone to optimise the paving of the round in the square,’ adds Belamich. ‘To set the bezel, which offers a large setting surface, we opted for the circle alternative with a total of three concentric circles of diamonds around the opening. On the other hand, in the articulation links, the setting is linear. Both the circle and the straight line give a clean and graphic look to the setting.’
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