A confluence of Haute Horlogerie, art and design manifests itself in a striking timepiece that leaves a lasting impression long after seeing it. At the very heart of it lies a skull whose symbolism extends past values of memento mori and vanitas, death and mortality, and adopted as various military insignia over the centuries.

The skull displayed the bravery of formidable fighters from the Vikings to buccaneers and even the paratroopers of the 82nd and 101st American Airborne Division during the Normandy landings. Drawing on the spirit of the courageous, Bell & Ross unveiled the Bell & Ross BR 01 Cyber Skull Bronze.

The release comes on the back of the BR 01 Cyber Skull, which sees a futuristic and angular take on the inimitable symbol of death, amongst others. The Bell & Ross BR 01 Cyber Skull Bronze shares the same ultra-modern faceted style, although the case and skull motif are clad in bronze, as its namesake suggests. At first glance, the Bell & Ross BR 01 Cyber Skull Bronze is a born extrovert — a dramatic bronze skull levitates in a matching bronze case thanks to two sapphire crystal plates. The “living” bronze alloy elevates the watch’s uniqueness, which develops a patina on the surface to prevent further corrosion to the layers below.

An entirely new movement, the BR-CAL.210, was designed as part of the release as conceptualisation, production, and assembly went entirely in-house. A percentage of the movement is visible, while a majority of the remaining are positioned behind the skull. An ingenious automaton is concealed in the skull — the skull comes to life when winding the crown as it appears to sneer or laugh. No two watches will be the same; as a result, a further testament to the appeal of the 500-piece limited edition watch.

This article first appeared on Men’s Folio Singapore.