Moonphase

Heading

(moon-fayz)

QUICK ANSWER

A moonphase is a complication on a watch that displays the current phase of the moon as seen from Earth, often found on the dial of the watch.

What does

Moonphase

mean?

A moonphase is a complication in horology that displays the current phase of the moon as seen from Earth. This feature is typically found on the dial of a watch and is designed to track the lunar cycle, which lasts approximately 29.5 days. The moonphase complication is often represented by a small aperture or sub-dial that shows a rotating disc with two moon images, simulating the waxing and waning of the moon. As the disc rotates, it reveals the current phase, such as new moon, first quarter, full moon, or last quarter.

Moonphase watches are appreciated not only for their aesthetic appeal but also for the technical craftsmanship involved in their creation. The mechanism requires precise engineering to ensure the disc advances correctly each day, maintaining accuracy over long periods. Historically, moonphase complications were essential for navigation and agriculture, providing a visual representation of the lunar calendar. Today, they are valued for their elegance and the romantic notion of connecting the wearer to the celestial rhythms. Collectors and enthusiasts often seek moonphase watches for their intricate design and the skill required to integrate this complication into a timepiece, making them a cherished addition to any horological collection.

Frequently Asked Questions

How accurate are moonphase complications?

Traditional moonphase complications lose one day of accuracy every 2.5 years (32.5 months). High-precision moonphase movements can maintain accuracy for 122 years or even up to 2 million years in exceptional cases like Patek Philippe's perpetual calendar models.

Do you need to adjust a moonphase watch?

Yes, moonphase displays require manual adjustment whenever the watch stops or loses power. You'll need to advance the moon disc to match the current lunar cycle using the watch's pusher or crown. Most require adjustment once every few years if kept running.

What's the point of a moonphase complication?

Moonphase complications display the current lunar phase, historically useful for maritime navigation, agriculture, and tidal predictions. Today, they're primarily aesthetic and traditional features appreciated by collectors for their romantic connection to astronomy and classical watchmaking.

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