Black Moon 腕表

Press Kit

Unique Properties

The Black Moon features, on a slightly domed central disc, the full and new moon represented by two lunar meteorites. Each comes from a different type of lunar rock; Dhofar 457, a dark meteorite, and Gadamis 005, a lighter one. The mechanism behind this innovative display is an astronomical moon complication, distinguished by its remarkable precision, deviating by only one day every 122 years, thanks to a sophisticated 135-tooth gear mechanism.

Dimensions & Packaging

The Black Moon is assembled in a grade 5 polished and satin-finished titanium case of 40.7 mm diameter. It weighing it weighs only 18 grammes. The domed sapphire crystal is a high-tech feat in itself that enables one to appreciate the depth and detail of the dial.
Limited edition: 60 pieces
Moon Disc: two lunar meteorites: Dhofar 457 and Gadamis 005
Movement: Self-winding mechanism, screw balance
Functions: Hours, minutes, seconds
Complication: Central astronomical moon
Power reserve: 48 hours

Tags

watch, astronomical moon, timepiece, luxury, meteorite, aventurine

Production Technology

The Black Moon timepiece combines advanced horological engineering with extraterrestrial materials. Its astronomical moon mechanism, driven by a 135-tooth gear, ensures exceptional precision. At the centre, two expertly cut lunar meteorites are placed on a slightly domed disc, representing the full and new moon. The surrounding dial, designed with an aventurine base, features floating indexes that create a sense of depth and mystery. The watch is housed in a polished grade 5 titanium case, topped with a domed sapphire crystal.

Design Challenge

The main creative challenge for the Black Moon was to reinvent the lunar indication with clean and refined lines, focusing on the essential—the new and full moon. The design had to showcase the technical complexity of the mechanism while maintaining a sleek look. Placing the lunar disc at the center and working with volume on the dial were key. Details like the openworked zone, sector seconds with longer and shorter ends, domed sapphire crystal, openworked lugs, integrated strap, and oscillating weight all reflect this modern approach.

Research

The Black Moon research focused on creating an innovative lunar display, blending mechanical engineering with the natural beauty of lunar meteorites. Les Ateliers Louis Moinet collaborated with meteorite hunters to source rare specimens. Master artisans sculpted these fragments for placement on the central lunar disc. The movement driving this astronomical moon complication was designed and developed by the LAB of Louis Moinet in collaboration with Concepto.

Inspiration

The central concept of the Black Moon is the reinvention of the lunar display, marking a first in watchmaking. This idea is inspired by several sources. First, the deep connection between Les Ateliers Louis Moinet and the Moon. Louis Moinet, the great watchmaker passionate about astronomy, created the world’s first chronograph specifically for his celestial observations. Then, Jean-Marie Schaller, CEO and Creative Director of Les Ateliers Louis Moinet, with his passion for collecting rare meteorites, including lunar fragments. The Black Moon is also the result of innovation and technical mastery, featuring an astronomical moon display.

Project Duration

The Black Moon project began in 2022 at Les Ateliers Louis Moinet in Switzerland, led by Creative Director Jean-Marie Schaller. It took two years to develop, from concept to final timepiece. The watch was officially unveiled in early 2024 at Watches and Wonders, released as a limited edition of 60 pieces.

Operation Flow

The Black Moon innovatively indicates the moon’s. An index at 3 o'clock, framed in red, points to the current state of the moon. The timepiece announces the full moon when the fragment circled in red aligns with the indicator. The subdial at 9 o'clock displays sector seconds with a compass-inspired hand: the longer end counts the first 30 seconds, and the shorter end the next 30. This innovative design enhances the overall aesthetic, while luminescent hands and indexes improve visibility at night.