Disciplined design. The French brand has released two new wristwatches, inspired by officers of the naval air force.

Luxury watchmaker Bell & Ross has been in line with military history and values since its inception in 1992. In fact, aeronautical instruments have been the inspiration behind many of the brand’s creations, both in design and technology.

Their latest additions to the Vintage BR Aéronavale collection - a chronograph and three-hand small seconds model - continue with that strong tradition.

The colourway of the watches mimics a naval officer’s uniform; the blue evokes the sea and the gold conveys nobility and victory. A classic colour pairing, the contrast between the skeletonised hour and minute hands stands out against the navy blue sunray dial, offering refined, excellent legibility.

I’m a fan of clean, minimalist design and elegant colour choices, even in sports watches. The simpler three-hand model definitely delivers there. But the chronograph is the stand-out model this time around.

The 43 mm diameter stainless steel chrono perfectly marries functionality and elegance. It sports two additional counters with snailed guilloché decoration and a 60-minute graduated bezel in blue anodised aluminium. It’s ultra-curved sapphire crystal adds to the vintage feel of the watch, as well as its structural strength and readability.

Made in Switzerland, both new models are powered by automatic movements visible through a transparent case-back. Each comes with either a satin-like blue calfskin strap highlighted with cinnamon stitching, or a midnight blue alligator strap with a pin buckle clasp.

The calfskin option in particular adds even more crispness to the overall package, making the watch as sharp as an officer’s uniform.