Cleared For Landing: The New Bell & Ross BR-03 Helipad
The latest aviation-inspired creation from Bell & Ross takes inspiration from an essential element of helicopter operations: the helipad. The new BR-03 Helipad transforms the familiar landing marker into an unconventional time display while continuing the brand’s long tradition of instrument-inspired watches.
Limited to 500 pieces, the model combines the iconic BR-03 square case with a playful yet functional interpretation of helicopter aviation.
Case and Construction
The BR-03 Helipad is housed in the familiar 41 mm x 41 mm BR-03 case crafted from micro-blasted black ceramic. The matte finish enhances the professional instrument appearance while offering excellent scratch resistance and reduced weight compared to steel alternatives.
Rounded corners and the four exposed screws remain signature design elements of the collection, while the screw-down crown contributes to a water resistance rating of 100 metres.
A solid caseback closes the watch and protects the automatic movement inside.
A Dial Inspired by Helicopter Landing Pads
The highlight of the BR-03 Helipad is undoubtedly its distinctive dial design. Bell & Ross recreates the appearance of a helicopter landing area, complete with the oversized yellow “H” positioned in the centre of the display.
A minute scale occupies the outer flange, while a contrasting yellow circle reinforces the visual resemblance to real-world helipads found on hospitals, skyscrapers and offshore platforms.
At the centre sits a helicopter silhouette that serves as part of the time display. The aircraft’s nose indicates the minutes, while the rotating blades function as a running seconds indicator, creating a subtle sense of movement on the dial.
Several elements receive a coating of Super-LumiNova, ensuring legibility in low-light conditions with a green glow.
Movement
Powering the watch is the BR-Cal.327 automatic movement, based on the reliable Sellita SW300-1 calibre.
The movement operates at 28,800 vibrations per hour (4Hz) and provides approximately 54 hours of power reserve, benefiting from the latest improvements introduced to the movement family.
Straps and Availability
The BR-03 Helipad comes fitted with a bright yellow rubber strap that matches the dial accents and reinforces the aviation theme of the watch.
Bell & Ross also includes a second black synthetic fabric strap equipped with a Velcro fastening system for a more utilitarian look.
Production is limited to 500 pieces worldwide and the watch carries a retail price of € 4,700.
Read more here.
General Specifications:
Brand: Bell & Ross
Model: BR-03 Helipad
Reference: BR03A-HE-CE/SRB
Dial: Black with paintwork inspired by Heliports
Case Material: Black ceramic with micro-blasted finsh
Case Dimensions: 41 mm Width, 10.60 mm thickness
Crystal: Sapphire Glass
Case Back: Black ceramic
Water Resistance: 100 Meters
Strap: Yellow rubber strap with a black pin buckle, plus a black fabric strap with Velcro closure
Calibre: BR-CAL.327 (Sellita SW300-1 basead)
Functions: Hours, minutes, seconds
Winding: Automatic
Frequency: 4 Hz (28,800 Vph)
Jewels: 25
Power Reserve: 54 Hours
Price: € 4,700
Limited Edition: Yes, 500 pieces
