After the creation of their first models thanks to external collaborations, the Vintage collections and Space 3 have been the first watches 100% Bell & Ross.
The DNA of the brand is right there, particularly in this uncompromising Space 3.

 

The announced goal of Bell and Ross is to design watches for professional use.
If one can wonder what a professional watch is, we understand it quickly when handling this Space 3, which sturdiness or readability are undeniable.

 

A sturdy yet comfortable watch

When you do not know casings without lugs, the first impression surprises, by its style and its proportions…
No, it is not an auto defense weapon but definitely a chronograph!
Its dimensions remain contained. It only needs to be put around the wrist to dispel the first reluctance.

It is sturdy, compact but comfortable.
And it does not take long to get used to it. And less to be convinced that it will be more at ease for external adventures rather than being closed in an air-conditioned office…

It is here dressed with a very pleasant rubber strap and very consistent with the initial impression, the waterproofness and the wanted use for this watch.
But with a Nato strap, black or khaki, it looks very good too.

The retractable crown strongly contributes to the comfort of this watch.
Even if it might look tricky to take the crown out of the casing, you quickly get used to it.

 

Finishing and dial

Despite a “raw” aspect, the finishing does not lag behind.
The casing, quite rounded and brushed, is ready for adventure and does not seem too sensitive to the hazards of hectic activities. A very wise choice.

The dial is beaded with silver, with a little pearly aspect, depending on the lights.
The internal bezel with the tachymeter scale takes up this processing while the sub dials are engine-turned.
All the writings are painted in black and faultlessly realized.
The markers are completed with luminova. 

Equally, the hands, quite thin, are painted in black and generously completed with luminova on the hour and minute hands.

 

The sapphire glass is slightly rounded and treated anti-reflection on both faces.
It confirms the excellent readability of the whole, including the chronograph.

 

The movement

The movement is in keeping with the rest.
Indeed, the Valjoux 7750 does not usurp its tractor reputation : 28000 alternations per hour and 42h of power reserve.
It has been settled by Bell & Ross and has a very satisfying accuracy even if it is not certified chronometer.

Besides, it allows the display of the day and the date.
The use of the chronograph is pleasant, partly thanks to the conception of the push buttons.

 

Conclusion

The non-spacemen can reassure themselves : no need to leave the atmosphere to fully take advantage of this Space 3.
It is cut out to do external activities or a little hectic, and bellow its sturdy appearance, it is a very well finished watch.

 

The + :

• readability
• sturdiness
• a maintained drawing
• the price

 

The – :

• the thickness of the casing that exposes the watch to shocks
• the rubber strap, undoubtedly comfortable but that you should cut yourself to adjust it to your wrist.

 

Further information :

• journalist’s wrist = 17,5 cm
• brand website : Bell & Ross