Lunar Loveliness With The Louis Moinet Black Moon Limited Edition
When we think of Louis Moinet, chronographs come to mind. After all, the company’s namesake invented the complication in 1816. Today, though, we’ll look at a different level of functionality. The moonphase complication is also traditional, but the new Black Moon Limited Edition ushers a novel method of displaying the lunar cycle.
Admittedly, a stodgy moonphase indicator isn’t my favorite complication. I don’t mind dressy, antiquated-looking watches, but a view of the Moon and stars ruins more dials than not. Therefore, when a watchmaker attempts to show the heavens in a novel way, I sit up and take notice. The Louis Moinet Black Moon succeeds with a modern yet legible take on the subject.
The Louis Moinet Black Moon Limited Edition
At first glance, it’s clear that the Black Moon breaks with tradition without arc-shaped windows on the dial to show the current lunar phase. It’s thoroughly modern yet highly readable. Before we discuss the complication, let’s review the basic particulars. Louis Moinet opted for lightweight construction with the choice of Grade 5 titanium. A tall, domed sapphire crystal and a display back held by seven screws affords a useful depth rating of 50 meters. A black leather strap and titanium folding buckle accompany the watch.
The caliber LM110
Owner Jean-Marie Schaller, who I sadly missed at Geneva Watch Days 2024, wanted to show the phases of the Moon in a novel manner. His team worked with longtime movement partner Concepto to create the automatic caliber LM110. The result is a domed platform in the middle of the dial that contains two circles of contrasting lunar meteorites. This platform rotates on a 135-tooth geartrain that ensures high precision with a deviation of one day every 122 years. Impressive!
Reading the dial and more
The rhodium-plated indices and hands contain luminous material to aid visibility in low-light scenarios. However, the red anodized aluminum index at 3 o’clock is worth noting. It acts as a pointer and refers to the current lunar phase. The darker meteorite is from Dhofar 457 in Oman and represents the new Moon. A contrasting, mottled meteorite, Gadamis 005, displays the Moon during its most luminous phase. An underlying dial made of aventurine completes the night-sky image. Functionally, the running seconds counter is in a sub-dial at 9 o’clock. Note that the rotating hand has two lengths and refers to the inner or outer 30-second arc.
Thoughts and availability
The Black Moon presents a modern and tasteful approach to displaying the lunar phases. Plus, with a titanium case and a healthy water resistance rating, the watch is made to be worn. Louis Moinet is not a large producer, and as a result, only 60 numbered pieces have been made. Pricing is disclosed upon request, but assume a friendlier price than some of the brand’s precious metal offerings.
For more information on the Black Moon Limited Edition, visit the official Louis Moinet website.
