SpotlightMoon Phase Meets Meteorite Marvels: Introducing The Louis Moinet Black Moon

Louis Moinet, a brand celebrated for their unique and limited-edition timepieces, continue their tradition of creativity and exclusivity with the introduction of the Louis Moinet Black Moon. Produced in a limited edition of 60 pieces, this watch features a groundbreaking way to display the lunar cycle, making it a must-have for horology enthusiasts.

A Darker Look At The Night Sky: The Louis Moinet Black Moon

The Black Moon’s dial includes two rare meteorites: Gadamis 005 and Dhofar 457. The marbled grey Gadamis 005, sourced from the region explored by the Apollo 16 mission, is considered one of the most beautiful lunar meteorites. Its mottled grey-white texture captures the moon’s luminous phase. In contrast, the intense black Dhofar 457, discovered by famed meteorite hunter Luc Labenne, originated from a lunar crater. This meteorite’s journey involved an initial impact on the moon, followed by a dislodgement and subsequent travel to Earth, where it landed in the Dhofar desert.

The Louis Moinet Black Moon features the full moon and the new moon represented, for the very first time, by two lunar meteorites placed on a domed central disc

In the Black Moon timepiece, Gadamis 005 symbolises the half moon, while Dhofar 457 indicates the full moon. The Dhofar 457 fragment, circled in red, stands out against the black, sanded background of the domed lunar disc. A framed index at three o’clock points to the current lunar phase, announcing the full moon when the red-circled fragment aligns with the indicator.

A Stunning Dark Dial

The dial design of the Louis Moinet Black Moon is a true work of art. The celestial meteorite fragments rest on an aventurine base, symbolising the vast starry night sky. Hovering above this celestial backdrop is a complex, modern structure. The luminous indexes, held in place by a central ring and a flange, appear to float mysteriously above the celestial background.

An additional fascinating feature is the sub-dial at nine o’clock, which houses sector seconds. In this unique display, the hand, modelled after a compass pointer, uses its longer end to count the first 30 seconds on the upper track. The shorter hand then takes over to tick off the next 30 seconds on the lower track. This intricate mechanism is encased in a 40mm grade-5 polished and satin-finished titanium case with sleek, modern lines, completing the sophisticated look of the Black Moon timepiece.

The Black Moon’s dial includes two rare meteorites: the marbled grey Gadamis 005 and the intense black Dhofar 457

While the representation of the lunar cycle on the Louis Moinet Black Moon appears simple, the underlying technology is remarkable. The mechanism includes a gear train with a 135-tooth wheel, ensuring exceptional precision. This allows the Black Moon to maintain accuracy with just a one-day deviation over 122 years. The exclusive self-winding movement was designed by independent watchmaker Louis Moinet and developed in collaboration with Concepto, a long-time partner of the brand.

The device is made up of a gear train which includes a 135-tooth wheel that provides excellent precision

Despite the simplicity of the representation of the lunar cycle mechanism, the technology used in driving this astronomical moon complication is noteworthy

“Would this have pleased Louis Moinet, the man who invented the chronograph to track his astronomical observations?” asked Jean-Marie Schaller, owner and creative director of Louis Moinet. The answer is undoubtedly yes!

Given the innovative design, rare materials, and precise craftsmanship, the Black Moon is a fitting tribute to the brand’s illustrious history and legacy. With only 60 pieces available, the Louis Moinet Black Moon is a rare and exquisite timepiece for collectors and enthusiasts alike.