The black-and-white military pilot’s watch has been iterated almost to death by brands like IWC and Bell & Ross, so novelty is difficult. Bell & Ross managed to accomplish a degree of novelty with the Vintage BR Aeronavale with a colour scheme modelled on the blue and gold of military dress uniform.

Though the look is loosely based on vintage French naval aviator’s chronographs – hence the Aéronavale moniker – it manages to distinguish itself from the rest. The dial is a bright metallic blue dial with a sunburst brushing, while the hands and hour markers are rose gold-plated.

Two versions are available, one being the BR 123 Aeronavale, a time-only automatic with a date window between four and five o’clock. And the other is the BR 126 Aeronavale chronograph with a bi-compax layout and date function. Both models have 43mm steel cases, domed sapphire crystals and display backs that reveal the ETA movements inside.

Pricing and availability 

The BR 123 Aeronavale automatic is priced at SFr2800 or S$4500 on a calfskin strap, while the same on a crocodile strap costs SFr3000 or S$4800.

And the BR 126 Aeronavale chronograph carries a price tag of SFr4200 or S$6300 on a calfskin strap, and SFr4400 or S$6600 on crocodile.

Both will be available at Bell & Ross retailers from August 2016.