HANDS-ON: The Bell & Ross BR V2-94 Garde Cotes

Felix Scholz

For most brands a round 41mm steel chronograph would be unremarkable, but this Bell & Ross stands out precisely because of these features – it’s not an oversize square watch crafted from ceramic or some other highly technical material, which is what we’ve come to expect from Bell & Ross.

Even though the BR V2-94 Garde Cotes is a far more ‘conventional’ design, don’t fall into the trap of assuming that it doesn’t stand out. There’s a lot here to please the eye – a well-balanced twin-register dial, glossy black bezel and a soft-grey and washed-out orange colour scheme to die for.

While you could be forgiven for thinking that the orange hand and chapter ring on a matte-grey background are a nod to the funky sports watches of the ’70s, the truth is a little more on-brand for Bell & Ross. The aviation-focused brand has taken inspiration from the helicopters of of the French Coast Guard – or Garde Cotes – for this chronograph, which explains the choice of pulsometer scale.

With it’s well-made bracelet, screw-down pushers, crown guard, 100 metres of water resistance and ever-reliable BR-CAL.302 (based on a Sellita SW300-1), the BR V2-94 Garde Cotes is an excellent option for an everyday chrono with an extra dash of style

Bell & Ross BR V2-94 Garde Cotes Australian pricing

Bell & Ross BR V2-94 Garde Cotes, on bracelet, $6750