Like the rest of the V1 watches in the Vintage Collection, the Bell & Ross V1-92 features a very straightforward, brushed stainless steel case in a traditional round shape like those seen on many vintage military watches. A 38.5mm case width keeps things feeling vintage and the modest size should allow for comfortable wear on wrists of many sizes. Ironically, many of the watches the Bell & Ross V1-92 seems to draw inspiration from were giant (as large as 55mm) having been designed to be worn over a pilot’s thick jacket. Bell & Ross clearly understand that the modern market has a place for those who appreciate vintage styling with a more wearable presence. The new Bell & Ross V1-92 Military also shares its movement with the rest of the V1 series.
Bell & Ross’ Cal. 302 is based on the Sellita SW300, a 25-jewel, 38-hour power reserve, automatic mechanical, time-and-date caliber which hums along at a standard 28,800bph. Sellita’s SW300, while not as similar as the SW200 and ETA 2824, exists as an alternative to the ETA 2892. While it isn’t a ground-breaking piece of haute horology, the Sellita based Cal. 302 should provide years of faithful and accurate service and make for easy servicing when the time comes.
A new dial for the existing V1 series, the Bell & Ross V1-92 adds yet another popular pilot’s configuration to the expanding lineup and is the only 38.5mm model with faux vintage colored Super-LumiNova, if that’s what you’re into. The Bell & Ross V1-92 Military is also not outrageously priced at $1,990 USD on a very much aviation-inspired vintage looking brown leather strap. bellross.com