KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 10 — Wearing a mechanical watch may be seen nowadays as a custom of the past.

French luxury watchmaker Bell & Ross is challenging that notion with the release of their new line of timepieces inspired by space travel.

"Watches are no longer just for telling time but also as jewels for self-expression,” co-founder and designer Bruno Belamich told Malay Mail.

"Good design is timeless; I am still inspired by iconic watches made during the 1960s and 70s like the Ventura brand created by Pierre Nobs with the design of Hannes Wettstein and the Porsche design watches from the 80s.”

The designer took elements from spacecraft, timepieces and sci-fi films and merged them into Bell & Ross’ signature ‘circle in a square’ case design.

The result is the new BR-X5 range of watches, pushing the limits of watchmaking with a new dial layout, 70-hour power reserve and carbon-made futuristic design.

"We wanted to create a design inspired by aviation and F1 racing cars yet retain our brand’s sophistication and practicality,” said co-founder Carlos A. Rosillo.

Both Belamich and Rosillo were reflecting on the company’s past and future at a press conference attended by local and regional media in Kuala Lumpur on November 2.

"Since our defining model, the BR-01, we have been innovating from our military-inspired roots to fit the urban market,” Rosillo explained.

"The BR-X5 was a challenge for our team, a step into the unknown of the elaborately designed upper-tier of watches. But I believe our risk has paid off.”

Luckily, the collaboration process between Belamich and Rosillo has always been an easy one since the company was founded in 1992.

"Both of us share the same values and interests but we also complement each other’s strengths and weaknesses,” Belamich said.

"Keeping a design minimal is what makes a watch timeless. It’s a philosophy that we always adhered to.

"I am of the opinion that watches will last into the future because they measure the value and gratitude you give towards time,” Belamich added.

The BR-X5 stands out with its movement and functions which are displayed in the dial. It features a large-aperture date window positioned at three o’clock and a circle-shaped power reserve indicator at nine o’clock.

The BR-X5 range is available in three colours, two steel versions and a third in carbon fibre.

The following evening, Belamich and Rosillo attended a party to celebrate the launch of BR-X5.

Attended by clients, celebrities and socialites, the futuristic-themed party held at The Exchange 106 revolved around space and time.

"For Bell & Ross, our signature design codes and inspiration have always been the future and not referenced on history. Also, considering the numerous lockdowns due to Covid-19, space and time has become even more precious,” said general manager of Bell & Ross Asia, Tong Chee Wei.

"Hence, we feel it is only timely to present the BR-X5 within the settings of space-time defined by Bell & Ross’ own dimensions,” he added.

For more details, visit http://www.bellross.com.