Bell and Ross debuts new BR-05 Skeleton Phantom Ceramic automatic watch with brushed black ceramic case

Bell & Ross is a French-Swiss watchmaker, which is well-known for aviation-inspired tool watches. A few days ago, the manufacturer added a new limited-edition model to its BR-05 lineup - the BR-05 Skeleton Phantom Ceramic. Here, Bell & Ross is opting for a stealth-focused design with a whole lot of matte-black ceramic.

Limited to only 500 pieces, the watch features a fully blacked-out case and bracelet with skeletonized movement visible through a tinted sapphire dial. It runs on the automatic BR-CAL.322-1 calibre, with a 54-hour power reserve. The dial uses 'Super-LumiNova' gray paint on the hour markers and hands, which produces a green glow in low light. The second hand is rhodium-plated for the sake of contrast.

The case is 41mm wide and 11.2mm thick. It uses polished-satin ceramic throughout, instead of the bracelet which is black ceramic. From the photos, the finish appears to be uniform and diffuses light across flat surfaces instead of creating bright reflections. Furthermore, the watch can be fitted with a satin-finished ceramic bracelet or black rubber strap, though the satin-finished ceramic bracelet alone is priced at $1,490. Water resistance is rated at 100 meters.

The skeletonized movement is visible both from the front and through the transparent case back. The movement’s oscillating weight rotates 360° and appears to be centrally mounted. Like other BR-05 models, this piece also has the brand’s signature square case with round dial opening and prominent screws at each corner - which is originally inspired by cockpit instruments.

However, despite being marketed as a stealth watch, readability may take a hit in normal lighting due to the black-on-black design. However, the lume should be perfect for nighttime legibility.

Priced at $9,800 USD, the BR-05 Skeleton Phantom Ceramic sits in the premium tier of Bell & Ross offerings (and automatic watches in general). It is currently listed as in stock on the brand’s official site with a 48-hour delivery window (business days only).

Buy the Seiko SRPD79 all-black automatic watch for $270 on Amazon.