Bell & Ross added a new complication to the BR-01 series with the BR-01 93. The BR-01 93 GMT adds the a second timezone function that is displayed with a second hour hand on a 24 hour graduated bezel. This automatic-winding timepiece is geared towards travelers. By setting the 24 hour clock to Greenwich Meantime, the local time can be calculated and set quickly and simply. The separate hour hands can also be used to display two preset times. The bold, clean BR-01 design lends itself well to the legibility of both times.
The automatic movement is the 2893 calibre from ETA, which gives the watch part of its name. It is a variant of the infamous 2892 and has 21 jewels, a power reserve of roughly 41 hours, and the usual incabloc anti-shock system. It is quite thin at 4,1mm, so the GMT Instrument remains about as thick as the basic BR-01 92. Because of its relatively low profile, this large square watch fits well on an average seven to eight inch wrist.
The dial is simply immaculate. To make room for the 24-hour-dial graduated inner bezel, B&R designers slightly reduced the size of the hour and minute graduations. A striking orange arrow indicates the hours of second timezone. "GMT" is painted in the same colour as the arrow for subtle contrast against the jet-black dial. Ever since the original limited edition BR Instruments - with orange numbers and hands - the company has been integrating subtle orange design elements on many of their models. You will notice orange hands or lettering in other models such as the Black and White BR-03 94, the BR-03 51 GMT, and the tonneau-shaped BR-02s.
The two timezones are convenient. You will use this function often if, for instance, you have family in a different timezone or if you are a frequent flier. The 24 hour dial would also be convenient in outer space where sunshine does not determine whether it is day or night and the strong photo-luminescence of the hands and markers gives a clear view of both times in all light conditions. Keep this in mind for your next intergalactic sojourn. More important is that the distinct GMT function gives the BR-01 93 an attractive style that conforms to Bell & Ross' credo to never compromise function for the sake of design.
Pictures: Pictures of the BR-01 93 at the store from front, and sides; watch on Dino's wrist, the dial in the dark, official picture from Bell & Ross.
Written by Marco who sells Bell & Ross Watches at Matt Baily.
