Words + Photography by Rikesh Chauhan, using Sony's A7IV.
It's not everyday you get to visit the paddocks and pit lane right before the famed British Grand Prix at Silverstone. Stranger still is to be 'on set' as Brad Pitt and Damson Idris film scenes for their new F1-related film, co-produced by legendary driver Lewis Hamilton. Aside from the slightly bizarre saxophone-led national anthem sung by Damian Lewis (please tell me it was also part of the film and that you're not considering a career change, Damian?), it was a true spectacle. Don't just take my word for it, though. Ask the record-breaking 480,000 others who were in attendance over the course of the weekend as Max Verstappen recorded his sixth consecutive win.
So what brought us to Silverstone? Our friends at Bell & Ross teamed up with the Alpine F1 team to create a remarkable timepiece: the BR 05 Chrono A523. "What brings the two entities together is the same passion for precision mechanics and high performance," says Carlos-A. Rosillo, co-founder of Bell & Ross. "Through this prestigious partnership, Bell & Ross is pursuing its quest for excellence and innovation." Following the launch event at the Bell & Ross boutique in London—where both the official F1 car and the watch (worn on the wrists of drivers Pierre Gasly and Esteban Ocon) were present—we were invited down to Silverstone with the Bell & Ross team to get a proper look at the build up and action. Though Ocon's race was unfortunately short-lived, the Alpine F1 team were steadfast in their professionalism (and hospitality), providing an experience we'll never forget. Here are some of the highlights from race day, and a few people you may recognise.
