Bell & Ross's BR-X3 Night Vision watch truly glows like a fighter jet's HUD.
Last month, Bell & Ross released the BR-X3, proving that even a structural reimagining of a classic design can retain its essence. This timepiece is an extreme interpretation of the skeletonized BR-03, a classic that the brand has continuously evolved since 2006. The BR-X3's release not only opens up a world of unconventional creativity, but the latest night vision version is also unique, tactical in nature, and unlike any other watch on the market.
Luminous Carbon Composite Material Bell & Ross developed a new material called LUM-CAMO for the Night Vision series—a composite material that fuses carbon fiber with photoluminescent resin. Unlike the luminescent coating typically applied to the hands and markers, this material is truly integrated into the case structure itself. The top and bottom of the case emit a green glow in the dark, creating a three-dimensional light and shadow effect that transcends simple timekeeping functionality. This 41mm sandwich case features a luminescent LUM-CAMO coating and is secured with four through-screws housed within protective sleeves made of—yes—also luminescent green rubber. Between these luminescent layers lies a Grade 2 titanium inner case with a black PVD coating. Considering its 41mm diameter and 13.3mm thickness, this design should effectively control the overall weight.
HUD-Inspired Dial Architecture The green color was not chosen arbitrarily. Bell & Ross drew direct inspiration from aviation head-up displays (HUDs)—the very systems fighter pilots rely on during nighttime missions. The multi-layered dial features an X-shaped skeletonized frame coated with green Super-LumiNova X2 luminescent material, clearly visible through the green sapphire crystal. From the oversized date window at 3 o'clock to the 70-hour power reserve indicator at 9 o'clock, all functional elements are outlined in the same bright green luminescent material.
Bell & Ross has always prioritized legibility (in fact, it's their founding principle), and the Night Vision takes this dedication to the extreme, completely transforming the dial when the lights are off.
Other Specifications: The case houses the BR-CAL.323 automatic movement, co-developed by Kenissi (a Swiss watchmaker along with Tudor and Norqain). Through the colored sapphire crystal case back, you can see that this movement is COSC certified and boasts a 70-hour power reserve.
Finally, the skeletonized black rubber strap features a black DLC-coated titanium pin buckle, completing the overall understated elegance.
Specifications
Model: BR-X3 Night Vision
Case Material: LUM-CAMO (carbon fiber and luminescent resin blend), Grade 2 titanium (black DLC coating), luminescent green rubber pillars