Oh, man. The Cyber Skull is wild enough but now Bell & Ross has just released a new version of their skull motif BR 01. This model, which rings up at $115,000, is made of a massive chunk of sapphire and has an ice blue skill inside made of galvanized brass and blue PVD.
From the release:
To express all the fascinating power of the skull, Bell & Ross has chosen to place it in a 45 mm case, which is water resistant to 30 metres and completely transparent, including the back. This case is made of sapphire, a high-tech composite material that is almost as hard and scratch-resistant as diamond. Transparency is also a way of exposing the contemporary know-how of fine watchmaking. To make the overall look perfectly consistent on the wrist, Bell & Ross has equipped the watch with a translucent soft silicone strap, which is closed by a polished and satin-finished steel pin buckle. A limited edition of only 25 pieces, the new BR 01 CYBER SKULL SAPPHIRE ICE BLUE is an ultra-exclusive timepiece by nature.
What is the Bell and Ross Cyber Skull series?
The Bell & Ross Cyber Skull series represents a bold and avant-garde approach in watchmaking, blending traditional craftsmanship with futuristic design. This series, part of Bell & Ross’s broader Skull collection, stands out for its distinctive skull-shaped case and dial, a motif that has been a part of the brand’s identity since 2009.
The Cyber Skull series takes this concept further by incorporating high-tech materials and a more geometric, angular design that gives it a distinctive, contemporary look. The skull motif is not just an aesthetic choice but also carries symbolic meanings of power and rebellion, resonating with a segment of watch enthusiasts who appreciate both the artistry and the statement made by their timepieces.
Technologically, the Cyber Skull series showcases Bell & Ross’s expertise in watchmaking. It’s their case construction and design that set them apart. Made from materials like ceramic and sapphire, the cases are both durable and visually striking, with a transparency that allows a glimpse into the intricate workings of the watch.
The skull-shaped dial is a masterpiece of design, often featuring moving jaws that open and close as the watch runs – a playful yet sophisticated display of the watch’s mechanical prowess. This series also often employs luminous materials, adding to the futuristic and edgy feel of the watches, especially in low-light conditions.
From a market perspective, the Bell & Ross Cyber Skull series caters to a niche but growing segment of luxury watch enthusiasts who value both innovation and tradition.
These watches are not just timekeeping devices but are also considered pieces of wearable art, reflecting the personality and style of the wearer. The series, with its bold design and advanced materials, appeals to a younger, more style-conscious demographic looking for something that stands out from more traditional luxury watches.
While they come with a premium price tag, their uniqueness, craftsmanship, and the brand’s reputation for quality make them a desirable item for collectors and fashion-forward individuals alike.
Is the BR 01 Cyber Skull Sapphire Ice Blue worth $115,000?
That, friend, is up to you and your wallet. The watch is handmade, limited to 25 pieces, and looks like a million bucks. Whether or not you want a winking, jibbering skull on your wrist is another matter entirely. It is a testament to B&R’s ability to manufacture some wild pieces and it looks, at least form here, like a wild and luxurious bit of kit.
About the Author / Author Expertise & Authority
John Biggs: I live in Brooklyn, NY and write about technology, security, gadgets, gear, wristwatches, and the Internet. After spending four years as an IT programmer, I switched gears and became a full-time journalist. My work has appeared in the New York Times, Laptop, PC Upgrade, Gizmodo, Men’s Health, InSync, Popular Science, and I’ve written a book called Marie Antoinette’s Watch about the most famous and mysterious watch ever made. I am the former East Coast Editor of TechCrunch.com.