The Bell & Ross Aviation BR03-92 Phantom in Ceramic

The name Bell & Ross is known the world around for its retro inspired aviation themed watches. The Bell & Ross Aviation collection boasts a wide range of colors and styles all available in Ceramic. The Phantom from that collection comes in all black attire, with every element on the watch, even the lume, in black. Ceramic was chosen for its exceptional scratch resistance and great tensile strength.

What I like about Bell & Ross is its no-frills approach to watchmaking. It is just classy without the need for a lengthy explanation. Bell & Ross excels at retro themed watches that carry proudly the brand’s DNA.

The Phantom gets its name from the famous Phantom Stealth Bombers that continually roam the night skies. This timepiece is offered in a case diameter of 42mm instead of the normal 46mm used in the BR01 series. Its square case and circular dial go together nicely accented by 4 screws at the square’s vertices.

The flattened main crown is textured allowing for the effortless winding of the watch, and setting of the date and time. This model from Bell & Ross is featured on a thick, luxurious black rubber strap that tapers in gently and that can be interchanged with a black, heavy duty canvas strap that comes with purchase. Securing the either bracelet is a pin buckle made from black PVD stainless steel. Water resistance on the Bell & Ross Aviation BR03-92 Phantom stands at a cool 100 meters.

Though all black, the dial is remarkably legible with its large indexes and equally prominent sword shaped hands. As stated before, the hands are coated at the tips with a photo luminescent material in black. A small circular date aperture occupies the 4:30 position. Bell & Ross uses a scratch resistant sapphire crystal that has been glare-proofed for the dial covering. Powering this timepiece is a Swiss made self-winding mechanical movement.