OMEGA and Swatch have announced the launch of their latest collaboration, the MoonSwatch Mission to Earthphase, expanding the popular Bioceramic MoonSwatch collection. This new model, priced at AUD$525 (USD$325), will be available starting November 2, 2024. Unlike previous releases, it will only be sold in-store at select Swatch locations, including Collins Street in Melbourne, Murray Street Mall in Perth, and multiple sites in Sydney.
The Mission to Earthphase introduces an innovative quartz complication that may initially seem complex, resembling a function typically found in high-end watches. However, its operation is straightforward. This Earth phase indicator follows a 29.5-day cycle, akin to a retrograde feature found in luxury models like the Patek Philippe Minute Repeater Tourbillon Retrograde Perpetual Calendar, valued at approximately AUD$1 million. Essentially, when a Full Moon occurs, the Earth phase indicates a New Earth, and vice versa.
Swatch drew inspiration for this unique feature from the perspective of Earth as viewed from the Moon. The Earth phase turns counterclockwise, in contrast to the Moon phase.
While the Earth phase function itself is uncomplicated, the watch‘s design incorporates intricate details. The dial boasts a texture reminiscent of lunar dust, while digital printing creates the appearance of moon craters. Notably, Neil Armstrong’s footprint is featured on the case back, and the oceans are rendered with UV ink, visible only under ultraviolet light.
This release marks the first instance where these two complications have been integrated into a single watch. Despite the simplicity of the functions, the aesthetic appeal remains a key attraction for fans of the MoonSwatch line. Additionally, the design features a black tachymeter scale on the bezel, contrasted by new light gray markers, differentiating it from the original ‘Mission to the Moon’ model.
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