Top 15 Best affordable Moon Phase Watches [Guide & List]

Top 15 Best affordable Moon Phase Watches [Guide & List]

Watches are available with countless different functions and features. Originally, they only displayed the time, but as the art of watchmaking evolved, watchmakers have been able to develop new innovations to incorporate into watches.

This includes functions such as chronograph, date function, day function, split time, world timer, and of course moon phase function.

These different functions appeal to watch enthusiasts due to their technical complexity and tend to add to the appeal of watches. In addition, they also tend to give watches a distinct look which many find attractive.

The moon phase function is one that is particularly popular amongst watch enthusiasts. It looks great and adds attention to detail, thus enhancing the watch’s overall appeal.

Like with all types of watches, moon phase watches are available in countless designs and price ranges. Ultra-premium brands such as Patek Philippe, Audemars Piguet, and Vacheron Constantin have watches with moon phase functions, but the good news is that you can also get affordable moon phase watches for a fraction of the cost.

Whilst we could easily make a list of ultra-luxury high-end watches with moon phase, it tends to be a bit more difficult to find great moon phase watches at affordable prices, since this is a function that has, for long primarily been presented in more expensive timepieces.

What is a moon phase function in a watch?

The name obviously gives it away, but a watch with a moon phase function is a watch that shows the current status of the moon cycle, whether it is a full moon, half-moon, or anything in between. With that said, when the watch and function are set properly, the moon phase shows the cycle of the moon just as you see the real moon when looking at the sky.

Obviously, most people do not have any need to actually know the current status of the moon. The popularity actually lies in the appearance it gives the watch, but also the complex craftsmanship that is required for developing them and integrating them into the watch.

The full moon cycle takes 29 and a half days, and this is what a moon phase watch presents.

Below, we have listed some of the most popular affordable moon phase watches. ”Affordable” is always a relative term, but most watches only cost a few hundred dollars, whilst we have also included a few more high-end watches that cost a few thousand. Without further ado, let’s dig in.

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Top Best Affordable Moonphase Watches

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Frederique Constant FC705S4S6B Slim Line moon phase watch

Starting off this list, we have an elegant, clean, and refined timepiece from Frederique Constant, a Swiss watch manufacturer that makes high-quality Swiss watches with attention to craftsmanship and fine watchmaking, but at a slightly lower price than many of its competitors

The watch is assembled in Switzerland and this particular watch has a diameter of 42mm and a thickness of 12mm. It has a simple and elegant stainless steel case with a polished finish, paired with a beautiful matte silver dial with applied metal markers. At 6 o’clock, it has both a calendar and a moon phase which contrasts the otherwise very simple dial.

The watch is presented on a stainless steel bracelet with a polished finish and a push-button deployment clasp. On top of the case, it has a sapphire crystal and inside is a Swiss automatic movement. The watch has a water resistance of 3 ATMs, which isn’t the best, but at the same time, this is more of a dress watch and certainly not a sports/dive watch. Its simple and classy design makes it perfect for formal occasions, and its moon phase function adds to its appeal.

Specifications

• Crystal: Sapphire
• Water resistance: 30m/99 feet
• Diameter: 42mm
• Thickness: 12mm
• Moon phase indicator

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Edox Les Vauberts Moonphase 40101 37RC Gir

Edox is another Swiss watchmaker, and this watch is made to be an elegant and classic dress watch. It is of course equipped with a moon phase function, but it is also equipped with two additional sub-dials that present the date and the day. The three sub-dials on the dial is a nice and balanced way to present this information, for a visually pleasing dial. Around the edge of the dial, it also has the months printed, which are, in turn, indicated with the added month hand.

The watch has a rose gold PVD stainless steel case for added elegance and it is powered by a quartz movement. The dial has a beautiful greyish color with a brushed/sunburst finish which reflects the light beautifully. The dial also has small rose gold applied markers.

The case has a diameter of 42mm, and overall, it is a perfect elegant watch that works great on formal and dressed-up occasions.

Specifications

• Quartz movement
• Diameter: 42mm
• Crystal: Sapphire
• Water resistance: 50 meters/165 feet

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Frederique Constant FC705X4S4 Slim Line Rose Gold-Plated Automatic

This Frederique Constant moon phase watch radiates pure class and luxury. It is presented with a 42mm rose gold plated stainless steel case with an anti-reflective sapphire crystal. It has a clean and refined silver dial with a matte finish and of course a moon phase indicator at 6 o’clock. Around the moon phase, it also has a date indicator.

The watch is powered by a Swiss automatic movement and presented on a brown croc-embossed leather strap which matches the rose gold case perfectly, and also adds to its elegant and classic appearance. It is water-resistant to 30m.

This is just class and understated elegance in its most beautiful form topped off with a moon phase function.

Specifications

• Water resistance: 30m/99 feet
• Swiss Automatic movement
• Moon phase indicator
• Diameter: 42mm
• Crystal: Sapphire

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Longines Master Collection L2.673.4.78.3 – WW

This Longines L2.673.4.78.3 is part of the master collection and has a sporty yet elegant appearance, making it very versatile. It has a stainless steel case with a diameter of 40mm and a thickness of 14mm.

It is really the dial that makes this watch stand out from the ordinary. It has a white background with a beautiful textured pattern and sub-dials presented at 6, 9, and 12 o’clock. It features blued leaf-style hands, a date pointer, which points at the dates around the dial, and relatively large black numerals.

The moon phase function is presented at 6 o’clock, and the sub-dial at 12 o’clock also has day and month indicators. The watch has a water resistance of 30m/100 feet. On top of the case is a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal, and those who appreciate craftsmanship and watchmaking will also appreciate its see-through case back. The watch is powered by an automatic movement.

Lastly, an elegant watch needs an elegant strap, which is why this one is presented on a brown Croco-embossed leather strap.

Specifications

• Diameter: 40mm
• Water resistance: 30m
• Crystal: Sapphire

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Orient ‘Sun and Moon Version 3’ Automatic

Now, to be fair, the Orient sun and moon are not a moon phase watch. However, it reminds of one hence why we have included it in this list. This watch shows daytime and nighttime conditions on the dial, essentially a slightly more advanced AM/PM indicator.

The Orient Sun and Moon is one of the most popular affordable moon phase-styled watches out there, even though it does not have a moon phase function.

First and foremost, it is presented at an affordable price, and secondly, it offers exceptional value and great attention to detail. The watch is designed to be elegant and classic, with a refined and simple design, but it does not appear as boring. Note that this watch is available in several different iterations with different dial colors and also one with a rose-gold colored case.

This particular watch features a stainless steel case with a diameter of 42.5mm. It is powered by Orient’s automatic F6B24 caliber with quickset features for the day and date.

On top of the case, it has a sapphire crystal, and it offers a water resistance of 50m.

Apart from the moon phase function at 5 o’clock, it also has a day indicator at 10 o’clock and a date function at 8 o’clock.

Specifications

• Water resistance: 50 meters
• Day and date calendar
• Moon phase indicator
• Crystal: Sapphire
• Automatic movement
• Diameter: 42.5mm

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Frederique Constant FC270SW4P6 Business Time Swiss Quartz

This beautiful and elegant watch from Frederique Constant has a moon phase dial with week, day, and date display. It has a 40mm stainless steel case and is powered by a Swiss quartz movement.

The water resistance is 165 feet.

The watch has plenty of beautiful details that make it visually pleasing, such as the well-balanced sub-dials at 3, 6, and 9 o’clock, its elegant applied metal Roman numerals, and its classic leaf-shaped hands. The dial has Guilloche decoration for added elegance.

This is a perfect watch for formal occasions and attire.

Specifications

• Diameter: 40mm
• Swiss Quartz movement
• Water resistance: 165 feet

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Frederique Constant Classics FC270M4P6 moonphase

This is a classic watch but still with a lot going on. It has a diameter of 40mm, is presented with a stainless steel case, and is presented on a black croci-embossed leather strap.

It has a beautiful white enamel dial with black spade-shaped hands for contrast. The watch is powered by a quartz movement with a water resistance of 60 meters / 200 feet. On top, it has a scratch-resistant mineral crystal.

The dial has large black Roman numerals printed on the dial and three sub-dials that present the moon phase, the day, and the date.

If you’re looking for an elegant and classy moon phase timepiece with a classic appeal, this is definitely a great option. 

Specifications

• Water resistance: 60 meters
• Crystal: Mineral glass
• Diameter: 40mm
• Quartz movement

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Longines Master Collection L29194920

The Longines Master Collection L29194920 is presented with a striking blue dial which is sure to catch everyone’s attention.

It has a stainless steel case with a diameter of 42mm and is water resistant to 30 meters/100 feet. The watch is powered by an automatic ETA movement which is based upon the ETA A31.L91, which Longines calls the caliber L899. The movement operates at  25200 vph and has a power reserve of 64 hours.

The dial is really the highlight of this watch, with a striking blue dial with silver-tone hands and index hour markers. It has minute markers around the outer rim.  The date display is positioned at 6 o’clock, and inside this is of course the moon phase. Watch enthusiasts will be happy to hear that it has a see-through case back.

Specifications

• Diameter: 42mm
• Water resistance: 30m/100 feet
• Power reserve: 64 hours
• Frequency: 25200 BPH
• Movement: Automatic Longines caliber L899, based on the ETA A31.L91
• Crystal: Sapphire

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Orient “Sun and Moon Version 4” Automatic moon phase

This is another version of the Orient sun and moon which has a slightly different design but is equally popular. It is also available in different iterations with either yellow gold, rose gold, or stainless steel case.

The watch has a diameter of 42.5mm and is powered by the Orient F6B24 Automatic movement with Hand-Winding and hacking Movement. On top of the case, it has a sapphire crystal. The watch offers a water resistance of 50m/165 feet.

The attention to detail of this dial is just beautiful and the moon phase, date, and day functions are distributed beautifully on the dial.

Specifications

• Water resistance: 50m/165 feet
• Diameter: 42.5mm
• Automatic F6B24 Orient caliber
• Crystal: Sapphire

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Junghans Meister Calendar Automatic Watch

Junghans is a popular brand that is known for making clean, simple, and elegant watches that offer great quality and craftsmanship.

The watch is presented with a sleek stainless steel case which puts all the focus on the dial thanks to its thin bezel. The diameter measures 40mm and the thickness is 12.5mm.

It has a beautiful matt silver-plated dial with Luminescent hands and silver-tone indices. The calendar has a weekday window at the 10 ‘clock position and a month window at the 2 o’clock position, The date and moon phase are displayed at the 6 o’clock position.

Inside is a Swiss automatic movement, caliber J800.3, Base caliber ETA 2824-2 which has a power reserve of 38 hours. On top is a convex, hard plexiglass with a scratch-resistant coating. It is water-resistant to 3 ATM/30 meters/99 feet 

All in all, this is just a beautiful, simple, and classy watch with a moon phase function that works great on any occasion and everyday wear.

Specifications

• Water-resistance: 3ATM
• Automatic ETA 2824-2 base caliber
• Power reserve: 38 hours
• Crystal: Convex hard plexiglass with enhanced scratch resistance 
• Diameter: 40mm
• Thickness: 12.5mm

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Oris Artelier Complication

The Oris Artelier is a watch that combines elegance with sportiness. It of course also has a moon phase function.

The watch features a 40mm stainless steel case with a thin bezel which leaves all focus on the dial. Speaking of the dial, it has a guilloche Silver Dial with blue hands and markers which contrast the white background perfectly. Its functions are distributed across three sub-dials positioned at 3, 6, and 9 o’clock. The moon phase is placed just below the 12 o’clock marker. Another interesting feature about this watch is that it has a GMT 2nd Time Zone Feature.

It is powered by the self-winding Oris caliber 781 with a power reserve of 38 hours, beating at 28800 beats per hour. On top, it has a Scratch-Resistant Sapphire. The water resistance is 50 Meters / 165 Feet.

Specifications

• Water resistance: 50 meters/165 feet
• GMT function
• Moonphase function
• Power reserve: 38 hours
• Automatic movement
• Frequency: 28800 BPH
• Diameter: 40mm

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Certina DS-8 Chrono Moonphase C0334502203100

This beautiful Certina DS-8 is a chronograph watch that incorporates a moon phase function. It has a 42mm stainless steel case with a polished yellow-gold bezel and a gold and steel bracelet. On top, it has a sapphire crystal. it is presented with a beautiful silver dial with a sunburst finish which reflects the light beautifully. The three sub-dials are beautifully positioned on the dial, and the date window is tucked in at 4 o’clock.

The watch is powered by a quartz movement and it is water resistant to 100 meters / 330 feet water resistance. This watch combines sportiness with elegance, making it a perfect everyday watch. It has a solid build quality, as we can expect from Certina, is Swiss-made, and has impressive attention to detail.

Specifications

• Water resistance: 100m/330 feet
• Diameter: 42mm
• Quartz movement
• Crystal: Scratch-resistant sapphire

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Baume & Mercier Clifton Automatic Chronograph Calendar Moon Phase Swiss 10328

The Baume & Mercier Clifton is more expensive than the other watches on this list, but what a watch it is!

It has a stainless steel case with a diameter of 43mm and a thickness of 15mm. It is equipped with a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal, and the case back is open, allowing you to see the automatic movement with its beautiful details and impeccable craftsmanship.

The watch has a sunburst silver dial which reflects the light beautifully, contrasted by Rhodium-plated Dauphine hands with blued steel Chrono hands. The dial also has applied rhodium-plated Arabic numerals and indices. At the 9 o’clock position, we find the small seconds sub-dial, and the gold hand indicates the 24-hour time.

This is a watch with plenty of functions, including a full calendar function that features the weekday and month apertures in the sub-dial at the 12 o’clock position. The date is displayed around the flange with an arrow hand, and the moon phase is displayed in the sub-dial at the 6 o’clock position.

It is also equipped with a chronograph function which displays 30 minutes at the 12 o’clock position and 12 hour counter at the 6 o’clock position.

Last but not least, the watch is powered by the caliber BM13751, a Swiss automatic movement with a power reserve of 48 hours. The water resistance of this watch is 5 ATM/50 meters/165 feet.

Specifications

• Diameter: 43mm
• Thickness: 15mm
• Crystal: Scratch-resistant sapphire
• Swiss Automatic movement
• Moon phase function
• Chronograph function
• Power reserve: 48 hours
• Water-resistance: 5ATM

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Seiko Premier Kinetic Direct Drive Moon Phase SRX015P1

The Seiko Premier Kinetic moon phase is a highly popular watch that is offered at a very affordable price. The watch also has a slightly sporty and robust design which makes it masculine and more suitable for men.

The watch has a stainless steel case with a diameter of 42.5mm and a water resistance of 100m/330 feet. Another great thing about this watch is that is powered by a Kinetic automatic movement, which is a combination of mechanical and quartz technology, which is very practical.

On top of the case, it has a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal. The dial has a silver tone, contrasted by blue hands. 

All in all, it’s a sporty timepiece with a classic design that works perfectly for everyday wear.

Specifications

• Water resistance: 100m/330 feet
• Diameter: 42.5mm
• Automatic movement
• Crystal: Sapphire, scratch-resistant

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Citizen BU0050-02L Calendrier

Last but not least, we have the Citizen BU0050-02L Calendrier which is a watch that certainly stands out from the ordinary. It is available in the version seen above but also in a gold and steel version with a silver dial.

This particular watch has a diameter of 44mm and mineral glass on top, but it is of course the dial that stands out from the ordinary. The watch has a beautiful blue dial with great attention to detail and lots of useful functions, including moon phase display pointer hand date indicator, pointer hand day indicator, and month indicator functions. The dial has a stunning guilloche texture, with raised silver color polished markers.

It uses Citizen’s Eco-Drive technology, meaning it gets its energy from solar and ambient light which changes the movement, thus removing the need for replacing the battery.

Specifications

• Diameter: 44mm
• Eco-Drive quartz movement
• Water resistance: 100m/330 feet
• Crystal: Mineral glass
• Moon phase display

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How accurate are moon phase watches?

In terms of timekeeping, moon phase watches are just as accurate as a watch that doesn’t have this function. But in regards to the actual moon phase function, it depends on the watch, if it is mechanical or quartz, and the quality of the moon phase.

In general, the moon phase function is accurate for a few years before it needs to be manually adjusted. But some watches are more advanced and high-end which gives better accuracy.

That is the simple answer. But the more technical answer is the following:

A moon phase function (with a mechanical movement) often works via a moon disc which has a total of 59 teeth that advances one notch every 24 hours. This is meant to reflect one full rotation of the lunar cycle, but it is not 100% on point.

The fact of the matter is that the lunar cycle lasts 29 days, 12 hours, and 44 minutes. As you can see, this is not completely accurate, specifically off by 0.3 days per month. With that said, the moon phase cycle will be off by one whole day every two years, seven and a half months. Some manufacturers have developed more advanced mechanisms to allow for better accuracy

When it comes to digital moon phase watches, it’s obviously a lot different, and so the accuracy is essentially perfect.

Why buy a moon phase watch?

There are several good reasons why you may want to buy a moon phase watch. The most common are:

They look good

There’s something beautiful and intriguing about having a moon phase indicator on the dial of a watch. It’s a nice detail that looks really nice and gives the watch added appeal. The details of the moon phase and the way it changes depending on the position of the moon allow for a more interesting timepiece. The moon phase function is often associated with expensive luxury watches, and that is to a large extent true. But with that said, it means that they add a premium look to your affordable timepiece.

You actually use the function

Another, perhaps more obvious reason to have a moon phase watch is that you truly need the function. Let’s be honest, most people who wear a moon phase watch rarely, if ever, use the moon phase function. But for some people, knowing the phase of the moon is important and valuable information, and therefore, having a watch that can present this information can be really convenient.

For the added complication

Whilst there are, as you have seen, a few affordable moon phase watches, the function is particularly common in luxury timepieces. The reason for this is that luxury watches often emphasize craftsmanship, watchmaking, and complications. And watch enthusiasts appreciate difficult complications in watches  – in particular, if they are mechanical. With that said, the moon phase function adds appeal to watches and makes them more interesting and appealing to watch enthusiasts due to the increased complexity and required craftsmanship.

How to read a moon phase watch

Reading a moon phase watch is very simple. The moon rotates on a disc, and the way the moon is displayed is meant to portray the current status of the moon as you see it when you look up in the sky.

Phases of the moon watch

The moon goes through several different phases as it orbits, or more correctly, depending on the position of the sun and how it shines on the moon. The moon has four primary phases which include a waxing crescent, waxing gibbous, waning gibbous, and waning crescent.