Bell & Ross BR 03 92 MA-1 Limited Edition Watch Review
Thursday - 11 April 2019
Bell & Ross are no strangers to the aviation world releasing iconic timepieces linked to military professionals that risk their lives protecting the skies. This year is no different with the release of the BR 03 92 MA-1 Limited Edition taking inspiration from the pilot’s sharp style, in particular, the US Air Force’s MA-1 flight, also known as the ‘bomber’ jacket of 1958 – a piece of clothing that has earned legendary status recognised for its distinct colour palette.
The limited edition subtly references the highly functional jacket by cleverly using the dark khaki and bright orange shades in a sophisticated way. The MA-1 flight jacket was a response to the cold conditions pilots faced at higher altitudes as the jet aircraft became widespread during the fifties. Cockpits became much more compact with a streamlined silhouette and the explosion in avionics. Therefore, the jacket served as a practical answer to the needs during this time yet also had a sharp, stylish aesthetic that has not been forgotten due to a comeback in the 70s making the sartorial choice a style icon.
A life saving element was added to the khaki green jacket to allow for a downed pilot to be highly visible whilst anxiously waiting the Search and Rescue team. The orange lining allowed for the pilot to reverse his jacket and be easily spotted in an emergency. The calfskin leather strap of the BR 03 92 MA-1 Limited Edition reflects this carefully considered feature with a reversible deep green strap with a tangerine orange lining.
Bell & Ross work with the orange and khaki hues to pay tribute to the MA-1 flight jacket. The colour palette has always been associated with the military, with the khaki green acting as the perfect camouflage tool and the vivid orange used to highlight the urgent commands within the cockpit. The dial is made up of two overlapping inserts, with the dark khaki layer featuring cut away numerals and indices to allow for the orange to shine through. The perfect contrast and tribute to the iconic jacket.
Limited to 999 pieces, the BR 03 92 MA-1 continues Bell & Ross’ legacy in aviation, touching on where it all began with cockpit inspired instruments. With a retro yet modern feel, the functional, stylish jacket comes alive on the dial.
