Bell & Ross BR-X5 Blue LumvsVario Empire Art Nouveau Handwound

The Bell & Ross BR-X5 Blue Lum features a composite case with blue luminescent quartz fibre and titanium, and its dial, indices, hands, and power reserve indicator are treated with blue Super-LumiNova. The watch is powered by the Kenissi-manufactured Caliber BR-CAL.323 automatic movement, which provides a 70-hour power reserve. The luminous composite case components appear a pale blue in daylight and emit a bright aqua blue glow in the dark, though the date numerals are unlit. On balance, reviewers highlight the BR-X5 Blue Lum's distinctive luminous case and dial as its primary appeal.

Owners widely praise the Vario Empire Art Nouveau Handwound for its detailed, multi-layered dial featuring applied numerals and guilloche patterns, its elegant Art Deco-inspired design, and the enjoyable winding feel of the Miyota 6T33 handwound movement, often visible through an exhibition case back. The 38mm case size is considered a positive by many, and the included leather strap is noted for its comfort and quality. Some owners find the differing fonts on the sub-dials and perimeter less appealing, and the absence of a constant seconds sub-dial is flagged as a drawback. On balance, owners rate the Vario Empire Art Nouveau Handwound highly for its distinctive Art Deco styling and detailed dial at its price point.