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Lot #2800

Bell & Ross Desert Type BRY 123

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Introduction

Founded in 1992 by two lifelong French friends as a university project, Bell & Ross has grown from its humble tech startup-esque beginnings into one of the biggest modern watchmakers in the world. Sharing a belief that watches should be functional, durable and rooted in usefulness, Bell & Ross’ founders were convinced that function shaped form, as opposed to the other way around. In just a short 30 or so years, Bell & Ross has become synonymous with aviation and military-themed watches, just like the BRY 123 Desert Type that we have here. Crafted to honor military personnel, the Bell & Ross BRY 123 Desert Type is a symbol of resilience and precision in the harshest environments. Launched as a collection of two limited edition models in 2005, this collection embodies the spirit of the desert with their sandy beige dials, which echo the vast, arid landscapes of Saharan Africa where the collection draws its inspiration. With a design that prioritizes functionality, THE ref. BRY 123 ensures optimal legibility in both daylight and darkness thanks to its Superluminova coated hands and markers. Offered as a 38mm stainless steel timepiece, the BRY 123 sits on a distinctive leather bund strap, ensuring the timepiece remains a steadfast companion, regardless of the challenges faced. A modern homage to the historical military watches, the BRY 123 Desert Type stands as a testament to Bell & Ross's commitment to excellence and the adventurous spirit of its bearers.

Loupe This Scorecard

Grade

M 8.5

Status

Vetted & Approved

Included

Box and Papers

Est. value range

$1,000 – $2,000

The Details

Brand

Bell & Ross

Dimensions

38mm

Model

BRY 123 Desert Type

Movement

Automatic

Reference

BRY 123

Bracelet

Leather strap

Year

2007

Condition

Very good

Material

Stainless steel

Included

Watch, box and papers

Dial Color

Beige

THE DIAL
THE DIAL

Boasting an intensely legible sandy beige dial with large Arabic numerals and large luminous hands, the Desert Type clearly demonstrates its positioning as a utilitarian timepiece inspired by the military.

THE CONSTRUCTION
THE CONSTRUCTION

Offered in a 38mm stainless steel case, the BRY 123 is a universally wearable timepiece. Presented on a bund strap, invented to prevent pilots from being burned by the caseback of their watches in hot cockpits, the BRY 123 radiates its militaristic aesthetic in abundance.

TIMING MACHINE READOUT
TIMING MACHINE READOUT

This reading was taken (crown down) with a ONEOF Accuracy Boutique Edition timing machine at time of cataloging. It is provided as a courtesy only, and shall not be construed as a warranty or guarantee of any kind. Please refer to our terms and conditions of sale for more information.

Condition

Watch is in very good used condition. There are scratches and marks on the case and the strap is well worn. Some nicks visible, including on the lower left lug. Please note that the watch has a poor timing machine readout and is in need of service.

Our Perspective

Intensely legible and featuring a no-frills construction, the BRY 123 remains true to Bell & Ross' vision as a watchmaker focused on delivering timepieces with a clear sense of direction in their styling and inspiration.

Justin Gruenberg

Co-founder