Build quality and thoughts on the B&R BR02?

[Djt]

Like the title says, I am interested in any thoughts on the build quality of the BR02 or B&R in general. I picked one up, knowing that they are a bit overpriced for the standard movement you get. Probably should have gotten it used, but couldn't find the Arabic dial. I returned it once due to the rubber on one of the crowns being filed down. After I got the second one home, I noticed that the case is all rough between the lugs where the two parts of the case connect. This is a first semi expensive watch for me, is it wrong to assume the build quality and tolerances should be better? To be fair, it appears purely cosmetic, but if you rub your nail over the section, it is clearly rougher and sticks out from the case. It just does not appear to be finished correctly. My seiko sumo has no such cosmetic issues and was quite a bit less costly. Thanks for your thoughts.

[simoncudd]

Djt- as I mentioned to you (on another forum), I've never had any issues before with any B&R's.
Having owned 4 BR02's, they actually seem to be the most robust and 'tool' like of the watches.

[Djt]

Thanks Simon. I took the watch back the the AD, and should be picking up the replacement tomorrow. I loved the way the BR02 looked, and hope that my experience was just an error. The AD agreed that it shouldn't have looked the way it did and sent it back for replacement. I am looking forward to a long and good experience with the BR02. While I had it in my possession, it ran wonderfully. I'll have to post pics of the replacement once I pick it up.

Thanks again for sharing your experience, much appreciated.

[Nine]

I am also interested, I've been looking for a hip diver to wear at the beach, for some light diving/swimming and also around town. I've heard that hte BR-02s tend to run slow as well...never of these facts are pushing me to buy :(

[Six 13]

My BR02 runs fast at around 10-12 seconds a day. It’s better to be a little early than a little late so that’s fine by me. I have read that BR02’s can run this fast but I can’t recollect them running slow.

Also my PVD finish flows like silk from case piece to case piece and I can’t see any rough edges.

[dkbs]

Those are all standard ETA movement, Bell&Ross only makes the cases. Slow or fast has nothing to do with them. However, if they fail to adjust your watch when you send your B&R to them, then you can say something about it.

I am also interested, I've been looking for a hip diver to wear at the beach, for some light diving/swimming and also around town. I've heard that hte BR-02s tend to run slow as well...never of these facts are pushing me to buy :(

[rockin'ron]

Those are all standard ETA movement, Bell&Ross only makes the cases. Slow or fast has nothing to do with them. However, if they fail to adjust your watch when you send your B&R to them, then you can say something about it.

Actually, they're using the Selita now, which is just as good as the ETA IMHO. But I agree, slow or fast is just a regulating thing, not a problem by any means. The BR02 is on my very short list. I've seen nothing but good feedback on it.

[dkbs]

I accidently saw your post at BR-Avo forum and founder's reply. That kind of altitude basically kills the brand. I will not think about the quality, but just wondering what kind of people wear Bell&Ross? Why they are so rude?

Maybe you should think about Rolex or JLC instead.

Like the title says, I am interested in any thoughts on the build quality of the BR02 or B&R in general. I picked one up, knowing that they are a bit overpriced for the standard movement you get. Probably should have gotten it used, but couldn't find the Arabic dial.

I returned it once due to the rubber on one of the crowns being filed down. After I got the second one home, I noticed that the case is all rough between the lugs where the two parts of the case connect. This is a first semi expensive watch for me, is it wrong to assume the build quality and tolerances should be better? To be fair, it appears purely cosmetic, but if you rub your nail over the section, it is clearly rougher and sticks out from the case. It just does not appear to be finished correctly. My seiko sumo has no such cosmetic issues and was quite a bit less costly.

Thanks for your thoughts.

[thsiao]

I accidently saw your post at BR-Avo forum and founder's reply. That kind of altitude basically kills the brand. I will not think about the quality, but just wondering what kind of people wear Bell&Ross? Why they are so rude?

Maybe you should think about Rolex or JLC instead.

They are actually a pretty nice crew... I think the whole thread was taken out of context. Without photos it is hard to know of the imperfections that the OP is referring to.

[simoncudd]

They are actually a pretty nice crew... I think the whole thread was taken out of context. Without photos it is hard to know of the imperfections that the OP is referring to.

.....we're a lovely bunch!!!
after all its the busiest and only (unofficial) dedicated B&R forum.

dkbs- you should come and join us!!