New: Bell & Ross BR 03-94 Multimeter

Bell & Ross has added a new snazzy model to their BR 03-94 lineup, which they call the Multimeter. Multimeters, however, utilize color to evoke the time-measuring instruments of sports.

An extension to a time-tested and popular watch is always a risky proposition, and the design team at Bell & Ross has succeeded once again. At first glance, the watch looks stylish, and perhaps interesting considering the multi-colored dial...a bit reminiscent of the rainbow on the Apple Watch. But looking deeper, color is a useful measurement that can be applied to the BR 03-94 movement. This watch is basically similar to the BR 03-94 A521 Alpine F1 Edition and BR 03-94 Patrouille de France, but with a black ceramic case. The main difference is the dial.

The case remains the BR 03 case that has stood the test of time. This rounded square case has a very modern look and feel, especially when made in ceramic. But the dial is where the fun happens.

The movement is still the BR-CAL.301, which is based on the ETA 2894-2 and the Dubuis-Depraz chronograph module and is widely used in Bell & Ross chronographs. A 30-minute counter at 9 o’clock and a central chronograph second hand improve legibility.

The BR 03-94 multimeter is a chronograph. These sports watches are designed to measure short periods of time. They are equipped with a large independent central hand that can be started, stopped and reset. Chronographs also use a tachymeter scale to measure speed.

Originally, these watches were used for:

aviation. They allow pilots to prepare their flight plans. They are also used to define the position of the onboard aircraft.
The Navy calculates the position of ships at sea.
drug. Some models are specially developed for doctors. They allow you to keep an accurate pulse on your pulse.
Motorsport, especially determining the speed of a car.

Thus, the chronograph function allows for multiple measurements; the BR 03-94 multimeter brings them all together on the dial. This particular model can measure, among other things, speed, number of breaths and even heartbeat. It is the "Swiss Army Knife" of athletes.

Cockpit as inspiration

The new BR 03-94 multimeter features the iconic "circle in square" shape of the iconic cockpit clock. Created in 2005, this watch has a very graphic case that has become a design reference. The 42mm diameter of the BR 03-94 multimeter makes it ideal for everyday use. The multi-coloured dial of this sophisticated chronograph is eye-catching.

Informative dial for multiple measurements

Like all stopwatches, the BR 03-94 multimeter is used to measure short times. This novelty has proven to be multifunctional, as it combines all the information indicated by the chronograph.
The BR 03-94 multimeter represents the ultimate instrument. It can be used for running, cycling and driving. With this novelty, Bell & Ross is targeting a large number of athletes.

Two additional dial counters complete the timing indication. A chronograph minute at 9 o'clock. Permanent seconds hand displayed at 3 o'clock.
To maintain optimum readability, the watchmakers opted for double-weighted hands. Their balancing act makes up for the lack of exponents.
Of course, the BR 03-94 multimeter also displays the hours and minutes via a central hand and displays the date in the aperture. Its 60-minute chronograph scale is usually located on the dial's flange.

one color, one function

Aesthetically, the spectacular BR 03-94 multimeter is visually appealing. This unique graphic chronograph is very pleasing to the eye. Its color dial utilizes the color distinction principle of various indications displayed on the aircraft instrument panel. The matte black ceramic case contrasts with the striking dial full of information. To maintain readability and functionality, Bell & Ross has chosen specific colors for each information category.

– The pulse meter scale is orange. It only operates on the right side of the watch face.
– Gas scales are painted dark green. It also only operates on the right side of the dial.
– Choice of light green, light grey and white for the three tachymeter scales. They are all over the dial.
Dates are shifted between noon and 1 (usually between 4 and 5) for better readability. In this position, it does not hide any indication.

The original BR 03-94 multimeter is powered by the self-winding BR-CAL.301 movement. This extraordinary mechanism is perfect for this spectacular chronograph. At first glance, the operation of this watch may seem complicated. In fact, it's not as complicated as it looks. To fully understand it, one must refer to the small user manual inserted to the left of the dial. It is easy to understand that it provides 5 vehicle scales.

It defines them in terms of three basic data: the base unit ("base"), the function ("function"), and the unit of measurement ("unit"). – Pulse meter counts heartbeats. It is expressed in 15 beats per minute.

The asthma meter monitors breathing and expresses it as expiratory volume per minute. It is expressed on the basis of 5 breaths.
Three tachometers measure speed in km/h. Their measurement bases vary and are based on three different measurement units: 100 m, 250 m or 1 km. The first corresponds to a jogger (running), the second to a cyclist (bike), and the third to a pilot (sports car).
Actually, the stopwatch is started by pressing the top button.

The big hand is triggered and the cycle begins. Press the top button again to stop. Hand cut 5 color scales indicating heartbeat and respiration. Speed ​​is the main indication, read on three scales according to different units. The classic chronograph function remains.

Bell & Ross BR 03-94 Multimeter Specifications
limited edition

Movement: BR-CAL.301. Automatic machinery.

Functions: hours, minutes, small seconds at 3 o'clock and date. Chronograph: 30-minute counter at 9 o'clock, central chronograph seconds. Tachymeter, Pulse Meter and Asthma Meter.

Case: 42mm wide. 12.80mm thick. Matte black ceramic.

Dial: Black. Indicators for 3 tachometer areas, 1 pulse meter area and 1 asthma meter area. The minute track is painted white on the flange. Hour and minute hands coated with Super-LumiNova®.

Crystal: Sapphire with anti-reflective coating. Waterproof: 100 meters.

Strap: Perforated black rubber and super elastic black synthetic fabric.