Why Moon Phase Watches Are Getting More Attention Than Ever?

Humankind has always been fascinated by the cosmos. This curiosity led them to discover timepieces in the first place. Our ancestors monitored the sun to track the passing of seasons, days, and time and the various phases of the Moon to track the passing of months.

Contrary to what many would like to believe, the moon phase dates back centuries and is actually one of the oldest complications in the history of horology. Today, the allure surrounding moon phase watches is greater than ever, and they are sought-after for their mechanical precision and aesthetic beauty.

In this blog, we’ll understand the appeal of moon phase watches and why they’re a must-have accessory for anyone who loves luxury watches and appreciates style.

What is a Moon Phase Watch?

A moon phase watch displays the lunar cycle in addition to the standard time-telling functions. The moon phase indicator tracks the 29.5-day cycle between full moons and is usually located on the watch dial. This intricate complication is formulated through a sequence of gears and a rotating disc that replicates the different phases of the Moon as seen from the Earth. These positions of the Moon are called Moon phases.

There are four main Moon phases:

• New Moon (when the Moon is in complete shadow)
• Full Moon (when the Moon is fully illuminated)
• First Quarter (when the Moon appears like half a pie and is a Quarter of the way)
• Last Quarter (when the Moon is half illuminated and half in shadow & appears like half a pie)

All these phases are intricately and beautifully designed on the dial, using high-end mechanisms that ensure precision and accuracy.

Earliest Example of Moon Phase Watch

The earliest recorded example comes from an ancient Greek device called the machine of Antikythera, which is said to have been created between 150 and 100 BC. The Antikythera mechanism comprises several interlocking cogwheels meticulously arranged on several planes. This complex yet fascinating piece of engineering gives a glimpse of progressive technology used by the ancient Greeks and also testifies to humankind's ingenuity.

It is believed that the Antikythera mechanism laid the foundation for future moon phase complications. For nearly 2000 years, this mechanism remained unmatched until the invention of the astronomical clocks.

Understanding The Significance Of Moon Phase Watches

Moon phase watches have etched an indelible mark in the world of horology, not only for their striking visuals but also for their historical and cultural significance.

Historical

Before introducing modern navigation systems, sailors and explorers used moon phase watches to determine their position at sea. The navigators observed the Moon’s phases and compared them to the time on their watches to estimate the longitude, which was essential for accurate navigation.

Cultural

In ancient times, the lunar cycle was associated with religious beliefs and agricultural practices. Various religions tracked festivals and ceremonies based on the moon's phases. Farmers, on the other hand, used the Moon to determine the best time for harvesting crops and planting.

Visual

Aesthetically, there’s something undeniably captivating and timeless about moon phase watches that captivate watch enthusiasts worldwide. The beautiful depiction of the lunar cycle on the watch dial adds whimsy to the timepiece.

Social

Luxury watch brands create moon phase watches in various styles, with many presenting realistic depictions of the Moon and others offering artistic presentations. This variety entices watch enthusiasts to pick a Moon phase watch that suits their style and taste. Wearing such a piece of fine art sparks curiosity and admiration from others and serves as a conversation starter.

Styles of Moon Phase Watches 

There are two most common styles of moon phase watches – Bosom and Radial moon phase.

The bosom moon phase is the most common style in which you can see the parts of the moon that are currently visible in the night sky on the watch dial. A crescent-shaped aperture represents the moon phase, and two look-alike moons are positioned on a disc beneath the dial. A 59-tooth driving wheel drives the disc, and a mechanical finger advances the disc one notch every 24 hours. Upon completing one lunar cycle, the second Moon appears in the aperture. Hence, the 59-teeth wheel (29.5 x 2).

The Radial moon phase is the less common one in which there is an indicator on the dial showing the current phase of the Moon.

Types of Moon Phase Watches

The world of watches is diverse, with various models to choose from. Whether you prefer a classic piece, a mechanical moon phase, or the convenience of a modern digital model, various models are available to suit different types of watch enthusiasts.

1. Complicated Watches 

As the name suggests, complicated watches incorporate a variety of different functions. Such moon phase watches accommodate additional complications such as a tourbillion, a perpetual calendar or a chronograph. These watches are intricately designed and highly decorative, making them a great choice for collectors and enthusiasts.

2. Dress Watches

The Moon watches in this category often feature simple and understated designs, perfect for formal attire. These dress watches typically have a smaller moon phase display and a subtle design, making them appropriate for traditional and classic looks.

3. Retrograde Moon Phase Watches

As fascinating as it sounds, the retrograde Moon watches have a retrograde function. These watches display the moon phase in an arc rather than on a rotating disc. This lends a modern, distinct look, making the moon phase complication even more prominent.

4. Sports Watches 

Sports watches have rugged designs and are suitable for active individuals. Moon phase watches in this category have a larger and more prominent moon phase display and often incorporate additional functions like a shock-resistant movement, a tachymeter, or a dive timer.

Precision of Moon Phase Watches

While the 59-tooth wheel is considerably accurate, it is still somewhat limited in terms of precision. This is because, in reality, the moon cycle precisely comprises 29 days, 12 hours and 44 minutes or 29.53 days. So, in that sense, your watch is missing out on 0.03 days every month. Although it adds up eventually, you’ll have to adjust the watch every two years and seven and a half months for a full day to prevent it from falling behind. In short, manually adjusting your moon phase watch every three years will be enough to keep it running smoothly and accurately.

Today, luxury brands have developed the 135-tooth wheel, ensuring greater accuracy and precision. These watches don’t require manual adjusting until 122 years!

How Does A Moon Phase Watch Function?

A watch with a moon phase complication typically displays the moon phases through a semicircular or circular opening on the dial. A rotating disc present below the aperture showcases the Moon. The disc turns to reveal the various phases of the Moon, with a complete circle denoting the Full Moon and a dark disc representing the New Moon.

The whole operation is run by a series of gears that move in harmony as time goes on and when you set your watch, of course.

Technically, most moon phase watches require frequent adjustments, typically every few years, to maintain accuracy. However, it depends on the specific model and the mechanism that powers the watch.

Increasing Popularity of Moon Phase Watches In The 21st Century

A moon phase watch is more than a mere timekeeping tool. It is a work of art that beautifully captures the mystery of the celestial world. They are not only stylish and unique but also serve as a reminder of the cosmic world. The moon phase display featured on the watch dial adds a lot of elegance to the wearer’s outfit.

From the 20th century, moon phase watches became increasingly popular as dress timepieces, and this trend continues to this day. Brands use high-quality premium materials to craft these timepieces, adding to their appeal and desirability.

Plus, moon phase watches are cherished for their ability to retain value. Many moon phase watches from the world’s best watch brands appreciate in value over time, especially the limited edition releases. Building such a collection ensures you can sell watches for a much higher value later.

However, when collecting moon phase watches as investments, it is essential to consider factors such as brand reputation, design preferences and movement accuracy to ensure a sound investment return.

Most Popular Moon Phase Brands & Models

Many prestigious luxury watch brands have created extraordinary moon phase watches, combining stunning designs with technical expertise. Below, we’ve listed some of the most popular and desirable models.

1. Omega – Speedmaster Moonphase

No moon phase watch list will ever be completed without the grail watch – Omega’s Speedmaster Moonwatch. This watch literally went to the Moon on all six lunar missions and is a direct testament to the brand’s longstanding connection to space exploration. The Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch has a hyper-realistic moon image on the dial behind the crescent aperture at 6 o’clock. What adds to its glory is the lifelike Moon with an added astronaut’s footprint.  It’s impossible to ignore the incredible detailing.

2. Rolex – Cellini Moonphase

The Cellini was the first Rolex with a moon phase complication. If you’re looking for a stunning Moon phase dress watch, the Rolex Cellini Moon phase is the ultimate pick. The Cellini Moonphase Ref. 50535 is a classic example of the brand’s take on dress watches with a captivating moon phase complication. Enclosed in an 18ct Everose gold case and fitted to a brown leather strap, this timepiece perfectly balances the casual and dress categories. The moon phase indicator is elegantly placed into the dial at 6 o’clock with a Moon made of meteorite. There’s a dark new Moon and a full Moon, adding a touch of magic to the classic dial design. The domed sapphire crystal and slight onion-shaped crown give you a vintage feel.

3. Audemars Piguet – Royal Oak Moonphase

The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Moonphase Ref. 25594BA is an eye-catching wrist piece filled with top-tier horology. This 36mm steel watch features sub-dials displaying the day and date of the week and has a charming moon phase indicator tastefully placed at 6 o’clock. All the mechanisms are set against a classic white dial, giving the watch an elegant aesthetic. The Royal Oak Moonphase seamlessly fuses the brand’s signature essence with the beauty of moon phase complication.

4. Patek Philippe – Complications Moonphase

The Patek Philippe Complications Moon phase Ref. 7121 is a stunning 18ct white gold ladies' watch, embodying elegance and luxury. Patek Philippe interprets the moon phase mechanism on an elegant blue dial, which looks nothing short of cosmic wonderland. The dial display looks like stars in the night sky, further enhanced by a sunburst decoration, creating subtle yet playful light effects. The watchmaker gives the watch a jewellery dimension by illuminating its bezel with a double row of sparkling diamonds, and the moon phase indicator is nicely positioned at the 6-hour marker. Patek’s commitment to creating exquisite timepieces is greatly upheld in this piece.

5. IWC – Portuguese Perpetual Calendar Moonphase

The IWC Portuguese Perpetual Calendar Moon phase Ref. IW502103 is an incredible timepiece that seamlessly blends precise engineering with timeless elegance. Presented in an 18ct rose gold body, the dial is the showstopper of the piece, incorporating four cleverly placed sub-dials. The watch consists of a moon phase display at 12 o’clock that deviates from showing the right phase of the Moon by only one day every 577.5 years. The moon image depicts the phase of the Moon in both the southern and northern hemispheres. Other state-of-the-art complications include a date feature, a perpetual calendar, date, month and year in four digits. The Ref. IW502103 is a beautiful portrayal of Portuguese design capability.

6. Cartier – Drive Moonphase

As with most Cartier watches, the Drive de Moon phase Cartier Ref. WSNM0008 is equally classy and elegant. Imagine a decorative and bright moon phase complication against a classic silver dial – you have the stunning Cartier WSNM0008. Cartier stylistically displays the moon phase by placing the Moon on a blue sky over a set of White Mountains. The watch has a unique case shape, and the guilloche dial with bold Roman numerals lets the moon phase stand out. The stark colour contrast plays well in upholding the simplistic style of the timepiece.

7. Jaeger-LeCoultre – Master Calendar

Watches from the Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Calendar range present sophisticated designs while exemplifying the brand’s proficiency in precise watchmaking. The Master Control Calendar Ref. Q4148420 is a well-presented charming timepiece that appears to be not overly complicated. As anyone would predict, the star of the show is the silver sunray dial displaying the moon phase horological complication. Located at 6 o’clock, the moon phase aperture is integrated into a small sub-dial and circled with a fine-printed second track. It gracefully shows the current moon phase, adding a celestial touch to the design. The watch offers a range of other functionalities, such as the day of the week, the month shown through double windows below the logo, the date displayed through the chapter ring and a pointer hand with a Red Crescent tip. This sleek piece celebrates the brand’s true technical and design excellence.

FINAL THOUGHTS...

There’s a reason why the moon phase complication is so loved and popular today. What started as a mere task has now evolved into an artistic expression, with each luxury watch brand striving to present the mechanism with utmost beauty and artistry.  

Whether you’re drawn to the mechanical prowess or appreciate the beauty showcasing the phases of the Moon, there’s no denying that these timepieces offer an enchanting way to trace the passage of time. The watches serve as a bridge to our past while reminding us of our enduring fascination with the cosmos.

If you’re interested in adding a piece of one such celestial beauty to your collection, we encourage you to explore The Luxury Hut’s selection of premium moon phase watch models from the most prestigious watch brands. Shop Moon phase luxury watches from Omega, Jaeger-LeCoultre and many other brands at exclusive prices.

As you navigate the world of moon complications, remember to curate a collection that will bring you joy and satisfaction in the coming years.