Bell & Ross has unveiled the BR-03 Chrono Ailes Rouges, a limited edition watch exclusively for the Japanese market. The name "Ailes Rouges," meaning "Red Wings" in French, reflects the brand's passion for aviation and pays tribute to nearly 90 years of shared aviation history between France and Japan.

This timepiece is inspired by the extraordinary journey of French aviator André Japy, who in the 1930s attempted a solo flight from Paris to Tokyo aboard a Caudron Simoun aircraft. Though his ambitious quest ended in disaster due to severe weather over Kyushu, which led to a crash, Japy’s experience provided valuable insights that would later help establish aviation routes between the two nations.

In response, a joint "Red Wings" project aims to fulfill Japy’s dream by restoring a Caudron Simoun and recreating his intended flight path from Saga to Tokyo, bridging the past and present.

The BR-03 Chrono Ailes Rouges beautifully captures this narrative. Its vibrant red sun motif calf strap and dial symbolize the aircraft’s colors, making a bold statement. The dial retains the classic BR-03 Chrono layout, featuring a small seconds sub-dial at 3 o'clock adorned with an illustration of the Caudron Simoun. At 6 o'clock "AILES ROUGES" is inscribed alongside the years 1936 and 2024, reinforcing its historical significance.

The proceeds of the present lot will go to the funding of the completion of the Caudron Simoun reproduction. To support this endeavor, the winner of this exclusive piece numbered 00 will be invited by Bell & Ross to Japan for a special ceremony for this celebration, offering a once-in-a-lifetime experience that honors history, innovation, and Franco-Japanese friendship. Bell & Ross will offer complementary accommodation for the winner.