Today, we’re going to take a look at a watch with a type of complication I’ve not examined much before – the moonphase.  And, given the import of today’s date in American history, it seems fitting to look at a model from an American company.  For those who haven’t heard of the Ball Watch Company, they’re an Swiss-made, American-owned manufacturer that started back in 1891 when Webb C. Ball was appointed the Chief Inspector for the Lake Shore lines, and his efforts to regulate the timing on the railroads.  Their watches have amazing technology to go along with that history, including models that function to 40 below zero, and DLC coatings.

Today’s post brings us a look at one of their anti-magnetic models the Engineer II Moonphase, which retails for $1,999.  Now, what of the actual moon phase complication itself, and what value does it bring?  Quite honestly, it’s not the most useful complication in the world, as it’s “simply” displaying what phase the moon is currently in.  This is generally (as it is on this watch) displayed in a graphical manner, rather than the dials and numbers we more commonly see on watches.  In this form of display, plus the fact that the indicator is constantly changing, allows you to have a touch of “sophisticated whimsy” on your wrist.

Of course, that’s not to say that this isn’t a practical and useful watch.  Given the lineage of the Ball Company, I rather doubt they’d put something out that wasn’t a solid timekeeper.  And I’d be remiss if I didn’t remark on the night-time readability afforded by the tritium tubes they include.  Some of the models can be a bit “flashy”, but on this one, I think it’s just right.  Bright, for sure, but it doesn’t look like you’re bringing a plane in for a landing.

So, the moonphase may not be practical, but it sure makes for a nice looking watch, doesn’t it?  Of course, if it’s not for you, there are plenty of other Ball models to explore!

Specs

  • Movement: BALL Calibre 968
  • Functions: 3 hands and date, Moonphase display; 15 micro gas tubes on dial and hands for night readability
  • Shock Resistant: 5,000Gs
  • Water Resistant: 100m
  • Magnetic Resistant: 4,800A/m
  • Case: 40mm diameter Stainless Steel, 13.2mm height, Fixed bezel, Anti-reflective Sapphire crystal, Screwed-in crown
  • Bracelet: Calf Leather or stainless steel bracelet
  • Dial Options: Black, Blue or Silver

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Last Update: September 9, 2011

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