Bell & Ross' "BR-03 Diver Fulham Ceramic." With a black ceramic case and pale blue dial, this model has a unique look that catches the eye. This watch, released last year, is actually rumored to be selling better than the stainless steel "BR-03 Diver." Why is that? We tried it out and found out the reason for its popularity.
Photographs & Text by Tomoshige Kase
[Article published on January 15, 2025]
My thoughts on the square case
The first Bell & Ross watch I got was in 2008. I bought a brand new "Vintage 123" with a small seconds movement. The most popular model at the time was the "BR-01," which made a stunning debut in 2005. Its square case, inspired by cockpit instruments, was revolutionary. I hesitated, but I think I just wanted a basic model first. The cream-colored dial was also cute.
Round-case watches have now disappeared from Bell & Ross, and the "BR-03" series, which succeeded the "BR-01," has become the brand's icon. This time, I'm reviewing a diver's watch. It's moving to think that after more than a decade, they've finally arrived at the "Bell & Ross square case." It may sound exaggerated, but personal attachments are usually exaggerated.
Stress-free wide straps
My first impression of the BR-03 Diver Fulham Ceramic was that it was a rugged diver's watch, quite the opposite of its stylish appearance.
The case measures 42mm in diameter and 13mm thick. It feels larger than the numbers suggest, likely due to its square shape. It's also quite heavy. I realized that the essence of this watch is a Bell & Ross tool watch.
Automatic winding (Cal. BR-CAL. 302-1). 28,800 vph. Power reserve approximately 54 hours. Ceramic case (diameter 42 mm, thickness 13 mm). Water resistant to 300 m. Price: 825,000 yen (tax included).
The purpose of the wide rubber strap becomes clear when you put it on your wrist. Its shape and material are designed to hold the heavy case securely in place and make wearing it stress-free. However, if you're used to lighter watches, you might find it a little disconcerting at first. To be honest, I too thought, "It would be difficult to wear this watch every day."
However, when you try wearing it, you somehow become addicted to its size, weight, and presence. It fits perfectly on your tanned wrist. It adds just the right amount of accent to your lightly dressed wrist. So, this watch is perfect for summer.
Experience the excellent visibility
The BR-03 Diver Fulham Ceramic instantly got me into the summer mood. I booked a boat trip with this watch as my companion. However, the day before my trip, I received a message saying that the boat could not depart due to strong winds. It was unfortunate, but I couldn't resist the weather. I decided to go for a fun drive to the Miura Peninsula.
I thought a heavy watch would be stressful when driving, but I found that worry unnecessary. This rubber strap is truly excellent. As mentioned above, it not only holds the case securely in place, but also fits perfectly. It stretches flexibly (or so it feels) to match the angle of your wrist. And yet it's never too tight. Personally, I found it more comfortable when it was a little tighter.
Another thing I noticed while driving was the excellent visibility of this watch. It uses sapphire crystal to prevent light reflection. The hands and indexes, outlined in black, stand out clearly on the dial.
In the end, the BR-03 Diver Fulham Ceramic brightened up a summer day, both emotionally and practically. Fishing will have to wait until another time, but the grilled salted grunt I chose at a restaurant in Misaki Port (I had planned to go grunt fishing that day) was excellent, so I'll call it a success.
A blue that's not too blue is good
As a diver's watch, the BR-03 Diver Fulham Ceramic is primarily intended for use in the ocean or outdoors, but its stylish appearance also makes it a great choice for everyday wear.
However, the blue dial, which has become popular in recent years, may stand out in some outfits (though there is no denying the beauty of the product). What's more, this watch has a square case that makes a strong statement.
However, as you can see, it blends seamlessly into casual summer outfits. This is probably because the blue of the dial is "not too blue." In natural light, it appears closer to white than blue. It goes well with casual clothing as well as modern business styles, such as a smart jacket and pants or a suit worn without a tie.
I also felt that the color of the date display disc was well thought out. It's a pale blue, not white. It's the same color as the dial, but with a slightly different tone. It clearly distinguishes itself from the round indices at 4 and 5 o'clock without interfering with the overall design of the dial. Attention to detail is evident.
By the way, the dial is clearly "blue" in the dark. The Super-LumiNova coating shines a vivid blue. This is also a pleasant feeling.
Reason for popularity
The appeal of the BR-03 Diver Fulham Ceramic can be summed up in the following four points: A striking shape. Excellent fit. Excellent visibility. A unique black and blue color scheme.
As mentioned at the beginning, the BR-03 is more popular than the standard stainless steel case model. The shape, fit, and legibility of the BR-03 diver's watch are the same for all models. The only difference between the standard model and the BR-03 is the color scheme, as mentioned at the end.
The case and rubber strap are black, the dial is pale blue, and the indexes and hands are pure white.
It combines the high functionality expected of a diver, such as 300m water resistance and a unidirectional rotating bezel, with a unique and well-balanced color scheme. This is the main reason for its popularity. It is refreshing at first glance, and the moment you put it on, you feel active. It is a watch that you will want to wear especially in the bright summer sun.
