Lunar Loveliness With The Louis Moinet Black Moon

October 12, 2016

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 EditionAt 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 LM110Owner 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 moreThe 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 availabilityThe 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.Watch specifications Brand Louis Moinet Model Black Moon Limited EditionReference LM-110.20.50Dial Aventurine with rhodium-plated indices, red-anodized aluminum pointer, and two lunar meteoritesCase Material Grade 5 titaniumCase Dimensions 40.7mm (diameter)Crystal SapphireCase Back Grade 5 titanium with sapphire display, held by seven screws Movement Concepto for Louis Moinet Cal. LM110: automatic winding, 28,800vph frequency, ~48-hour power reserve, 29 jewelsWater Resistance 50 metersStrap Black leather with Grade 5 titanium folding claspFunctions Time (hours, minutes, and seconds), central astronomical moon phasesPrice On requestWarranty Two yearsSpecial Note(s) Limited edition of 60 numbered pieces