Bell & Ross’ concept of ‘round in a square’ has been around for 20 years, and now a new novelty for 2025 continues this heritage with the BR-03 Skeleton. There are three models in the roster — Black Ceramic, Lum Ceramic, and Grey Steel — and it would be easy to assume that colours would be the only separating factor between them. But Bell & Ross has made sure that each version stands alone in its own right, each carrying a distinct feature or design choice.
Black Ceramic
Perhaps the most straightforward of the bunch is the Black Ceramic version, which shows most of the watch’s inner workings out of all the other models, thanks to the smoked sapphire crystal dial.
It builds upon the tried-and-true aesthetics of the BR-03, with its 41mm black ceramic case staying true to its iconic BR-01 design from 20 years back. This is a good place to start exploring the BR-03 Skeleton, as many facets of the watch still seem familiar. Which brings us to the next selection.
Grey Steel
Enter the Grey Steel, a fully stainless steel case that functions as an art sculpture as well as a timepiece. Try to ignore its polished steel construction with all its shine, and you will find the tiny details that set itself apart from the usual BR-03.
For one, you will find the indexes set into the faceted flange. The second thing to notice is the sharp cuts on the dial itself, which lends feelings of ‘accurate’ and ‘clean’. Unlike the Black Ceramic which is more universal in nature, this Grey Steel showcases sleek angles and high shine.
Yes, this watch may still maintain the BR-03 square DNA, but it is an option for someone who wants their timepiece to stand out. And with such a bright finish, it is hard not to draw attention with the Grey Steel.
Lum Ceramic
Rounding up this collection is the Lum Ceramic version, which channels something between Tron (for its stark, bright lines) and Alien (for the eighties sci-fi colour scheme).
Here, the tinted sapphire shows itself again, darkening the movement just a smidge. Like the Grey Steel, the index markers make do without numerals, but unlike its stainless steel counterpart, the Lum Ceramic features a more daring approach when it comes to the lume design.
Unifying all three watches is the three-handed movement, the calibre BR-CAL.328 which holds a power reserve up to 54 hours. Another factor that ties these watches together is the 41mm case size, with varying degrees of thickness. Only the Grey Steel and Lum Ceramic are limited edition pieces, each with a production run of 250.
Who would these watches suit best? The first demographic that comes to mind is someone new to the brand who would like to own a Bell & Ross classic while also getting something contemporary. But loyal fans of the brand can also benefit from purchasing the limited edition Grey Steel or Lum Ceramic, thanks to the unique design and collectability.
Most importantly, this model is for those who know what they want in a watch, because Bell & Ross certainly knows what its identity is, and will continue delivering the same.