Moonphase Watches

Moonphase watches show the illuminated portion of the moon as seen from Earth throughout the 29.5-day lunar cycle. This is the time it takes for the moon to transition from a new moon (when we cannot see it) to a full moon, and back again.

The first edition of this complication was developed by Swiss luxury watchmaker and clock manufacturer, Patek Philippe, for one of its wristwatch designs in 1925. Rolex then introduced its own version in 1949, with the Reference 8171.

Explore our diverse selection of in-depth moonphase watch reviews here on Escapement Magazine.