Aviation has been a constant source of inspiration for Bell & Ross. Ever since their very beginnings, the manufacturer has had a passion for military history and for heroes of the air. The precision, solidity, and fluidity of Bell & Ross’ timepieces has often been the success of the operation. But today, the manufacturer is paying homage to the pilots in the LaFayette squadron; these were American pilots fighting for the French.
The story begins in 1916. World War I had engulfed all of Europe, but the United States had not yet formally entered the war. It was then that a number of young American men chose to enlist in the French Légion Etrangère to defend France. This squadron would be called the “Lafayette Squadron” – the homage was evident: Gilbert du Motier de Lafayette came from France in 1777 to support the American rebels as they fought for their independence. Today, the squadron is turning 100. 100 years of men giving their lives for the glory of squadron 124, “Sioux Head”, which occupied a legendary place in the history of World War I.
In 2016, to create a link between past and present, between the United States and France, between the 1916 American squadron and the 2016 2/4 Lafayette squadron, this timepiece is honoring the ‘Sioux Head’ logo that comes from a Native American tribe known for their bravery in combat. This watch, originally made for members of the 2/4 Lafayette fighter squadron, is still made on the same bases as the brand’s original emblematic style: a famed square case that authentically uses the design of a plane’s cockpit. Designed for men of action on a quest for precision and robustness, the BR03-92 EDC 2/4 Lafayette is a watch that measures 42mm in diameter and can adapt to any morphology.
But this watch is only available in an extremely limited edition. 100 numbered pieces, each sporting the insignia of the Lafayette squadron and a Sioux head. Behind this symbol of French-American friendship hides one of the greatest stories in fighter plane history – it’s enough to get the attention of any amateur or collector.
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