The moon phase complication has been called romantic, whimsical, and even poetic, but it’s an undeniably popular feature finding its way into more brands’ collections — and it’s a particularly nice way to make classic or formal watches a bit more interesting. The new Longines Master Moon Phase watches offer a straightforward but modern take on the moon phase with a range of dial options, as well as a couple of very wearable sizes.
With black, white, and blue dials, the new Master Moon Phase watches are available with Roman or Arabic numerals as well as with simple stick indices (one version also has a blue dial with diamond indices). Most versions are 40mm in diameter, but a couple of 42mm versions also provide good dress or everyday options for larger wrists or those who prefer a bolder watch presence. All are water-resistant to 30m. There are also leather strap and steel bracelet options available with no change in price — so it’s easy to recommend the bracelet variant.
The Longines Master Moon Phase watches are powered by the L899 automatic movement developed especially for the brand based on an ETA A31.L91. It offers a 64-hour power reserve and a moon phase displayed in a 6 o’clock subdial that doubles as a date display. While the moon phase might not seem very relevant for modern life, it can be useful for certain professions, like diving and photography — and it’s also just a cool way to feel a little more analog sometimes.
The Longines Master Moon Phase watches will each have a price of $2,350 regardless of size, bracelet, or dial choice, except the 40mm version featuring diamonds, which will be priced $400 more at $2,750.
Gear Patrol also recommends:
Christopher Ward C1 Grand Malvern Moonphase Automatic Watch ($1,595)
Montblanc Heritage Spirit Moonphase Automatic Watch ($2,195)
Baume et Mercier Clifton Moonphase Automatic Watch ($2,525)
