The Bell & Ross BR V2 | family history
Bell & Ross built its identity on the square instrument-panel case of the BR 01. The BR V2 is the round-case alternative within that philosophy: the aviation-legibility principles (large numerals, high-contrast dials, clear hierarchy) applied to a conventional 41mm round case. It is Bell & Ross for buyers who want the brand's movement and philosophy without the square.
Bell & Ross's round-case family, offering the brand's pilot-instrument DNA in a more conventional wrist shape. The BR V2-93 GMT provides two-timezone functionality in a 41mm steel case at prices well below comparable IWC and Breitling offerings.
2014 · Launch as the round alternative
Bell & Ross introduced the BR V2 as the first round case in its modern lineup, acknowledging that the square BR 01 and BR 03 were statement pieces not suited to every wrist or context. The BR V2 retained the aviation dial philosophy: large hour numerals, minimal decoration, maximized legibility.
No references from this era in the catalog yet.
2014-present · V2-92 and V2-93 Belfast
The V2-92 is the standard automatic; the V2-93 Belfast adds a small seconds subdial and a slightly different layout. Both carry the BR-CAL.302 automatic (Sellita SW300 base) in a 41mm case. The Belfast name references the titanium case variant first introduced for that reference. Build quality is appropriate for the price tier.
How to read this family
What to consider before buying a Bell & Ross BR V2.
- Should I buy the round V2 or the square BR 03? The square is the identity statement; the round is the versatile daily wearer. The BR 01 and BR 03 read as objects designed for aircraft cockpits; they are deliberately extreme. The V2 applies the same philosophy to a watch that fits under a suit sleeve. Buy the square if the design provocation is the point. Buy the round if you want Bell & Ross's watchmaking in a more conventional package.
- Is the SW300 base an issue at this price? The SW300 is a thin, accurate caliber used in watches from $800 to $4,000. At the BR V2's price point, it is an honest choice. Bell & Ross does not pretend to an in-house movement; the brand's differentiation is design and legibility, not movement architecture.
Related families: IWC Pilot · Frederique Constant Index
References in this family
Which ref to buy
The BR V2-93 Belfast is Bell & Ross returning to what made them compelling before the lifestyle pivot: a military-specification flyback chronograph in a square 41mm case, with legibility as the primary design criterion.
- 1Open
BR V2-93 Belfast: 41mm square case, flyback chronograph, BR-CAL.303 based on Valjoux 7754, genuine military-pilot brief.
- The case for it:
- The Belfast is the correct Bell & Ross. It is not trying to compete with luxury integrated-sports watches — it is a purpose-designed pilot chronograph with a flyback function and legibility-first dial. For buyers who want a square pilot chronograph that actually earns the brief, this is the honest choice.
- Consider instead if:
- The Sinn 910 and IWC Pilot's Chronograph compete at similar and slightly higher price points with stronger secondary markets and deeper aviation provenance. The BR V2-93 is the choice for buyers who want the square case specifically.
Rankings last reviewed 2026-06-18. Editorial perspective only. Not financial advice.