Continuing with their partnership with the F1 Renault team, Bell & Ross presented the BR-X1 R.S. 19 Chronograph along with three other Renault Chronographs during Baselworld 2019 to mark the fourth year of involvement with this racing team. The new Bell & Ross BR-X1 R.S. 19 is an absolute racing inspired machine that brings the magic of an F1 racing car into a timepiece. Available in a limited edition of 250 pieces this skeletonized chronograph charged with the Renault team yellow racing color is for sure going to be a success.

Things to Know About the Watch

The ergonomic design and functionality of the new Bell & Ross BR-X1 R.S.19 has pushed the limits of extreme micro-engineering, stripping the movement, dial, case and chrono pushers down to their purest functionality. Cased in a 45 mm case in grade 5 titanium and ceramic with yellow rubber inserts, the BR-X1 R.S.19 features a time marker bezel for the very first time. The time marker is part of a bezel ring that following a hot lap, the team back in the pit lane can instantly mark wherever the chronograph’s yellow running seconds hand has been stopped, by rotating and aligning its yellow triangle with it. Following a second lap, the respective times can be instantly compared. The dial features a 30-minute chronograph register at 9 o’clock, running seconds at 3 o’clock and a very legible date aperture at 6 o’clock.

The ergonomic ‘rocker’ pushers —suitable for use with gloves—, along with the highly legible dial make for a watch perfectly designed for Renault F1 drivers Daniel Ricciardo and Nico Hülkenberg. The iconic Bell & Ross square case of the BR-X1 is surrounded by a bumper in black micro-blasted ceramic and yellow rubber inserts that acts as a peripheral protective shell. Rubber grip elements have also been integrated into the case to ensure better handling when activating the chronograph’s ‘rocker’ pushers, even while wearing gloves.

The Movement

The BR-X1 R.S. 19 is powered by the calibre BR-CAL.313 and automatic movement with ’X’-shaped upper bridge, 56 jewels and which beats at a frequency of 28,800 vph. The movement is not in-house. The movement is protected by a solid case back with a small sapphire crystal opening that allows for view of the balance wheel. This sapphire crystal is decorated with an imprint of Bell & Ross’ ampersand. The watch is water resistant to 100 meters.

On the Wrist & Price

On the wrist, the new Bell & Ross BR-X1 R.S. 19 wears true to its size and very light. While its wrist presence is very similar to that of other Bell & Ross square-shaped watches, the racing theme with its yellow and green accents make it extremely sporty and cool. A great looking watch for sure, with somewhat of a steep price tag. Despite its price, this is a very nice watch if you are into F1 racing and a fan of the Renault team. Limited to 250 pieces.

Sticker Price $21,500 USD. For more info on Bell & Ross click here.