Category: BELL & ROSS

Bell & Ross expands its experimental watchmaking portfolio with the new BR-X3 Micro-Rotor, a limited-edition timepiece that combines the brand’s unmistakable square case design with an innovative movement-focused construction.

Created as a more accessible interpretation of the brand’s high-complication BR-X series, the new model stands out through its architectural aesthetics, slim profile, and integrated movement-case concept.

A Case Built Around the Movement

The most distinctive feature of the BR-X3 Micro-Rotor is undoubtedly its 40 mm square case, which adopts a sophisticated three-layer construction.

The watch features a central stainless steel structural frame, positioned between two sapphire crystal sections that act as both the front crystal and the exhibition caseback. The entire assembly is secured by the signature visible screws positioned at each corner, a design cue that has become synonymous with Bell & Ross.

What makes this construction particularly remarkable is that the steel central section is not merely a housing for the movement — it is directly integrated into the calibre’s architecture.

Rather than using a traditional movement fitted inside a separate case, Bell & Ross has designed the watch so that the case middle itself functions as the supporting structure for the movement bridges. This engineering solution creates a seamless fusion between the external architecture and the internal mechanics.

Industrial-Inspired Openworked Layout

The openworked dial side reveals a highly structured movement layout, defined by bridge lines that create a geometric grid effect.

This architectural arrangement gives the BR-X3 Micro-Rotor a distinctly industrial aesthetic, reinforcing the brand’s strong connection to technical instrument design. The visible mechanical elements include the micro-rotor, gear train, and openworked barrel, all carefully arranged to enhance depth and symmetry.

The result is a modern, technical display that emphasizes the movement as the visual centerpiece of the watch.

BR-CAL.390 Micro-Rotor Movement

Powering the BR-X3 Micro-Rotor is the BR-CAL.390 automatic movement, equipped with a micro-rotor winding system.

The use of a micro-rotor is a key technical highlight, as it allows the winding mass to sit flush within the movement architecture instead of being mounted above it like a conventional rotor.

This construction helps maintain a notably slim profile, enabling the watch to measure only 9mm in thickness, which is impressive for a watch featuring such an elaborate openworked design and square case format.

The movement delivers a 48-hour power reserve, offering reliable daily wear performance while maintaining the sleek proportions of the case.

Practical Everyday Specifications

Despite its unconventional construction, the BR-X3 Micro-Rotor retains solid everyday usability.

The watch offers 50 meters of water resistance, which provides adequate protection for regular daily use and occasional exposure to water.

Its sapphire sandwich construction also ensures excellent visibility of the movement from both sides, further emphasizing the mechanical artistry of the piece.

Limited to 99 Pieces

Bell & Ross will produce the BR-X3 Micro-Rotor as a limited edition of 99 pieces, adding an element of exclusivity to this technically ambitious release.

The watch is priced at € 22,000, positioning it within the brand’s high-end experimental collection while remaining significantly more attainable than the BR-X3 Tourbillon Micro-Rotor introduced previously.

With its integrated case-movement architecture, slim micro-rotor calibre, and striking industrial design, the BR-X3 Micro-Rotor represents one of the most technically interesting releases from Bell & Ross this year.

Read more here.

General Specifications:

Brand: Bell & Ross

Model: BR-X3 Micro-Rotor

Reference: BRX3M-MR-ST/SCA

Dial: Skeletonised

Case Material: Stainless steel

Case Dimensions: 40 mm Width, 9 mm thickness

Crystal: Sapphire glass

Case Back: Sapphire glass

Water Resistance: 50 Meters

Strap: Grey calfskin leather with alligator pattern and a steel folding clasp

Calibre: BR-CAL.390

Functions: Hours, minutes

Winding: Automatic with micro-rotor

Power Reserve: 48 Hours

Price: € 22,000

Limited Edition: Yes, 99 pieces