19 Best Moonphase Watches On The Market In 2022

The moon has always been an object of fascination for humans. It is no wonder that so many people are interested in watches that show the moon’s current phase. Amongst all the different features on a watch the moonphase complication is one of the more impressive features to look for in an automatic watch.

Even though it’s not necessary anymore, many people enjoy having this type as their style and craftsmanship has become nearly unmatched over time.

In this article I will provide information on different price points and where you can buy them. So whether you are looking for an affordable option or a luxury item, I have got you covered with the best moonphase watches!

How does the moonphase feature work?

Skip this paragrah if you already know how the moonphase feature works.

The moonphase complication is very easy to understand and track at the watch. It is an interesting feature and an addition to the design of a timepiece which gets more popular recently.

The beauty behind this complication though – for big luxury watch enthusiasts – is the craftmanship to make this work.

Mechanism Explained: The 59 teeth disc vs 135 teeth disc

There are different mechanisms to make this feature work on moonphase watches, with the 59 teeth disc and 135 teeth disc being the most popular ones.

The 59 teeth disc

The 59 teeth disc was the first invention to track the moon phases on a watch. This comes from one moon phase lasting 29.5 days (more precisely 29.53059 regarding to almanac.com). As 29.5 teeth are not possible on a watch, they multiplied them by 2 which results in 59 teeth discs.

The problem with this mechanic is that because of the inaccuracy of 0.03059 days (29.53059 – 29.5) per moon phase, this mechanism will be inaccurate by one day after 32.69 months, which is a short time when knowing that luxury watches will last for a lifetime and longer.

The 135 teeth disc

The 135 teeth disc are used for more expensive luxury watches as this mechanism is more complex. Thus the inaccuracy of the 59 teeth disc experts invented the 135 teeth disc, which is a combination of a seven teeth weel and a 16 teeth weel.

The seven teeth disc will move by one teeth every day. Being connected to the 16 teeth weel, this disc will move 2.2857 teeth (16 / 7 = 2.2857).

This mechanism then will move the 135 teeth disc by 360 degrees every 59.0625 days (135 / (16 / 7)). As 59.0625 days are two moon phases means that this mechanism will show one full moon phase in 29.53125 days (59.0625 / 2).

So how much is this mechanism inaccurate?

As one moon phase is 29.53059 days long the 135 teeth disc is inaccurate by 0.00066 days (29.53125 – 29.53059), which is 0.01584 hours, which is 0.9504 minutes, which is 57.024 seconds.

When will the mechanism be inaccurate by one day?

Lots of calculations, but this one is easy.

First: Divide 24 hours by 0.01584 and we know how many moon cycles it takes to be inaccurate by one day, which is 1,515.15

Lastly: Multiply 1,515.15 moon phases by 29.53059 (days of one moon cycle), which is 44,743,31 days, which is 122.58 years.

Much better than the 59 teeth disc, right?

Even better moonphase watch complications

Besides these two mainly used complications are others that are even better ones that have nearly any inaccuracies anymore. Here are some.

Christiaan van der Klaauw invented a complication that is only inaccurate by one day every 11,000 years.

And as that is not enough Andreas Strehler created the Sauterelle a Lune Perpetuelle which is inaccurate by one day every two million years, yes TWO MILLION.

25 Best Moonphase Watches

Alright so let me show you the 25 best moonphase watches on the market right now with different price points and from different brands, like Seiko, Omega, Citizen and many more.

Best affordable moonphase watches

These are the best moonphase watches that cost no more than $1,000, so if you are just starting out with your luxury watch collection or want to get your first moonphase watch, one of these might be a good pick for you.

1. Tissot Men’s Carson Moonphase

The Tissot Men’s Carson Moonphase is the first good pick. This handsome watch features a 40mm case, Roman dial type, and date/moonphase function. The stainless steel bracelet and butterfly clasp with push-buttons closure make this watch not only stylish but also secure.

And with a water-resistance rating of 5 bar, you can wear this watch with confidence knowing it can withstand short periods of recreational swimming and showering.

2. Seiko Premier Kinetic Direct Drive Moon Phase

The Seiko Premier Kinetic Direct Drive Moon Phase is a stunning watch that is perfect for those who love silver-tone accessories. The dial is enhanced by beautiful blue hands, and the case and band are made of silver-tone stainless steel.

This watch is also water resistant up to 100 meters, making it ideal for those who love to swim or participate in other water sports. In addition, the scratch-resistant sapphire crystal makes this watch durable and long-lasting.

3. Orient Men’s ‘Sun and Moon Version 3’ Japanese Automatic

The Orient Men’s ‘Sun and Moon Version 3’ Japanese Automatic watch is a beautifully designed timepiece that is sure to impress. This watch features a sapphire crystal, sun and moon indicator, and Japanese-automatic movement.

The case diameter is 42.5mm and the watch is water resistant to 50m (165ft). This watch is the perfect addition to any wardrobe and is sure to turn heads when worn.

4. Gevril Men’s Madison Swiss Automatic Date and Moon Phase Watch

This timepiece features a 39mm round 316L stainless steel case, blue dial with exhibition case back, and date and moon phase. It also has a screw down crown, anti-reflective sapphire crystal, and is water resistant to 50 meters/5ATM.

Whether you’re dressing up for a special occasion or just want to add a touch of luxury to your everyday style, the Gevril Men’s Madison Swiss Automatic Date and Moon Phase Watch is the perfect choice and one of the best moonphase watches in this category.

5. Coutura Men’s Solar Perpetual Calendar Chronograph Watch

The Coutura Men’s Solar Perpetual Calendar Chronograph Watch is powered entirely by light energy, so you’ll never have to change the battery, and it has a 6-month power reserve once fully charged.

The sunray finish gray dial features chronograph and alarm subdials, as well as perpetual calendar functions such as leap year, month, day, and date indicators.

The angular two-tone stainless steel case is paired with an integrated bracelet and includes a sapphire crystal and cabochon crown. The watch is also water-resistant to 10 bar, 100 meters (330 feet).

6. Stuhrling Original MoonPhase Dress Watch

The Stuhrling Original MoonPhase Dress Watch is a stunning timepiece that is powered by the ultra-precise JP24 movement. With an animated Moon Phase dial at 6 o’clock, the Celestia pops off the wrist with its confident, clean presentation.

Finished with an embossed leather strap, the Celestia hugs your wrist with comfort and security as you aim for the stars. Water resistant up to 5 ATM (50 meters/165 feet), this watch is perfect for those who lead an active lifestyle.

7. Citizen moonphase watch

The Citizen moonphase watch is a stylish and sophisticated timepiece that is perfect for any occasion. The round stainless steel case and black leather croc-embossed wrist strap are both sleek and stylish, while the three-hand analog display with Japanese quartz movement is both accurate and reliable.

Using the most advanced technology in watchmaking, the Eco-Drive Perpetual Calendar never needs a battery, making it a truly environmentally friendly timepiece. The blue texture dial face features stick index hour markers, four sub-dials, and the brand name, while the mineral crystal window is splash resistant up to 10 ATM/100 meters.

Best Luxury moonphase watches

These moonphase watches are above $1,000 and will even be in a much higher price range. Just have a look yourself!

8. The Longines 1832

The Longiness 1832 is a unique and beautiful timepiece that is sure to impress anyone who sees it. This stunning watch has a dimension of Ø 40.00 mm and a thickness of 12.30 mm, making it a statement piece that will definitely turn heads.

The dial colour is a beautiful beige, which gives the watch an elegant and sophisticated look. The movement type is automatic, so you don’t have to worry about winding it up frequently.

It is also water resistant, so you can wear it with confidence knowing that it won’t be damaged by water.

9. Omega Speedmaster Moonphase

The Omega Speedmaster Moonphase is a beautifully crafted timepiece that is perfect for those who appreciate the finer things in life. It counts towards the best moonphase watches with the highest quality. With a total weight of approximately 202 grams and a case diameter of 44.25 mm, this watch is sure to turn heads.

The black dial is both striking and elegant, and the scratch-resistant sapphire crystal with anti-reflective treatment on both sides ensures that you’ll always be able to tell time with ease. The steel case is water resistant up to 10 bar (100 metres / 330 feet), making it the perfect accessory for your next adventure.

The foldover clasp with comfort setting ensures that your watch will always stay securely in place, no matter what you’re doing.

10. Junghans Meister Kalender

The Junghans Meister Kalender is a classic timepiece with modern technology. It features a self-winding movement calibre J800.3, 38 hours power reserve, and a screwed case back. The case is made of stainless steel and is 40.4 mm in diameter and 12.0 mm in height.

The strap is made of horse leather and has a stainless steel buckle. The dial is matt silver-plated with environmentally friendly luminous substance. The glass is a convex sapphire crystal with anti-reflection coating on both sides. The watch is water-resistant up to 5 bar.

11. Lunascope Moonphase Watch

Elegant and modern, the Lunascope moonphase watch is perfect for those who appreciate stellar design and impeccable craftsmanship. Featuring state-of-the-art technology and a beautiful moon phase module, this timepiece is truly unique.

The Automatic movement with 25 jewels and a power reserve of 38 hours ensures accuracy and reliability, while the domed sapphire glass protects the dial from scratches and damage. With a water resistance of 5 bar, this watch can withstand any adventure.

12. The Longines Master Collection

The Longines Master Collection pays tribute to the brand’s rich watchmaking history while offering a modern interpretation of classic timepiece design. The collection features elegant and sophisticated watches with a timeless appeal.

The 34 mm case is crafted from stainless steel and houses an automatic movement that powers the various functions of the watch. The dial is white mother-of-pearl and is adorned with Roman numerals, while the hands are faceted and coated with Super-LumiNova for improved legibility in low-light conditions.

The Longines Master Collection is a classic yet modern timepiece that is sure to impress anyone who sees it.

13. Piaget Limelight Stella Moonphase Watch

The Piaget Limelight Stella Moonphase watch is one of the most expensive and best moonphase watches on the market. It is a beautifully crafted timepiece that is sure to impress. The rose gold metal and blue alligator strap are luxurious and eye-catching, and the diamond index adds a touch of glamour. The sapphire crystal case back ensures that this watch is built to last, while the automatic movement ensures accuracy.

14. Junghans Meister Kalender, English Date

This Junghans Meister Kalender is a top-of-the-line wristwatch with a self-winding movement and 38 hours of power reserve. This watch is also available with an English date display.

The case is made of stainless steel and has a screw-down case back. The dial is sunray brushed blue, and the hands are luminous for easy readability in any light conditions. This watch is water resistant up to 3 bar and comes with a horse leather strap and stainless steel buckle.

Best Omega Moonphase Watches

Omega created a couple of different moonphase watches, which they all released under the model Omega Speedmaster. There are several models in different colors and with different bracelets and dials.

So here are my three best Omega moonphase watches.

15. Omega Speedmaster Moonphase Watch Blue

The blue moonphase Speedmaster is one of the best moonphase watches Omega has created. It features a classic Speedmaster design with a modern twist. The blue dial and bezel are stunning and the brown leather strap is the perfect finishing touch. This watch is powered by an automatic movement and has a power reserve of 44 hours.

16. Omega Speedmaster Moonsphase Watch Black

The black moonphase Speedmaster is a modern take on the classic Speedmaster design. The black dial and bezel are sleek and stylish, and the black leather strap is the perfect finishing touch. This watch is powered by an automatic movement and has a power reserve of 44 hours.

17. Omega Speedmaster Moonsphase Watch Gold-Black

The golden moonphase Speedmaster is a luxurious take on the classic Speedmaster design. The golden dial and bezel are stunning and is the choice for you if you are a golden luxury watch enthusiast.

Best Timex Moonphase Watches

Timex has one moonphase model on the market with two different colors. They are definitely a good choice if you don’t want to spend more than $150 on your next watch and want to have a go with moonphase watches. Here you go.

18. Timex Standard Moonphase Watch Silver

The silver dial and bezel are simple and elegant, and the black leather strap is the perfect finishing touch. This watch is powered by a quartz movement and has a water resistance of 30 meters.

19. Timex Standard Moonphase Watch Silver-Gold

The golden dial and bezel are stunning and the black leather strap is the perfect finishing touch. This watch is also powered by a quartz movement and has a water resistance of 30 meters.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a way to add an extra touch of sophistication to your style, consider upgrading to a moonphase watch. These watches are unique and stylish, and they can be the perfect finishing touch to any outfit.

Plus, they make great luxury gifts for friends and family members who appreciate fine timepieces. So if you’re ready to take your style up a notch, consider picking up a moonphase watch today. You won’t regret it!

If you are still not sure if these watches are the right pick for you, make sure to have a look at the best gold watches and see if those fit you.

Mick