In the realm of haute horology, Arnold & Son is renowned for its innovative approach to watchmaking, seamlessly blending astronomical precision with artisanal craftsmanship. The Luna Magna, one of the most breathtaking moonphase watches ever created, stands as an ode to celestial mechanics and timeless elegance.
With its exquisite green guilloché dial, three-dimensional moonphase complication, and refined aesthetics, this timepiece transcends conventional watchmaking, offering an experience that is as poetic as it is precise.
Let’s explore why the Arnold & Son Luna Magna is a true collector’s masterpiece.
1. A Tribute to Astronomical Horology
Founded in 1764, Arnold & Son has deep roots in marine chronometry and celestial navigation. The brand’s history is intertwined with legendary watchmaker John Arnold, whose timepieces played a crucial role in early maritime exploration.
The Luna Magna pays homage to this tradition by incorporating one of the most intricate and visually captivating complications: the moonphase. This watch is not just about keeping time—it is about capturing the grandeur of the cosmos on the wrist.
2. The Luna Magna’s Moonphase – A Three-Dimensional Masterpiece
🔹 Unparalleled Moonphase Display:
Unlike traditional moonphase watches that feature a flat, two-dimensional disc, the Luna Magna’s moonphase is fully spherical—one of the largest ever featured in a wristwatch.
🔹 Materials & Construction:
- The moon sphere is crafted from white marble and aventurine glass, representing the lunar surface and the deep night sky.
- The marble half reflects the illuminated portion of the moon, while the aventurine mimics the darkened side.
- This perfectly balanced sphere rotates within an aperture, accurately displaying the lunar cycle.
🔹 Horological Significance:
- The Arnold & Son Luna Magna boasts an ultra-precise moonphase mechanism with an accuracy deviation of just one day every 122 years—a feat of astronomical watchmaking.
- A secondary moonphase indicator on the movement side allows for quick adjustments, ensuring precision.
This is not just a complication; it is a cosmic spectacle, brought to life by centuries of horological expertise.
3. Dial & Case – A Study in Elegance
✔ Dial: Radiant Green Guilloché – A meticulously handcrafted sunburst guilloché pattern, radiating outward like light reflecting off the moon’s surface.
✔ Case Material: 18K White Gold – Enhancing the celestial theme with its cool, elegant tone.
✔ Hands & Indices: Slim White Gold Baton Hands – Ensuring clarity while maintaining the dial’s minimalist beauty.
✔ Strap: Hand-stitched Green Alligator Leather with Purple Interior – A striking combination that adds a discreet touch of individuality and refinement.
The Luna Magna seamlessly blends traditional artistry with contemporary aesthetics, making it an absolute visual delight.
4. Movement – The Beating Heart of Precision
At the core of this timepiece lies the Arnold & Son Caliber A&S1021—a hand-wound movement that showcases the brand’s mastery in mechanical watchmaking.
🔹 Technical Specifications:
- Manual-Wind Movement – Emphasising traditional craftsmanship.
- 90-Hour Power Reserve – Allowing for nearly four days of uninterrupted operation.
- Beating at 21,600 Vibrations Per Hour (vph) – Delivering smooth, elegant movement of the hands.
- Fine Finishing: Côtes de Genève striping, polished bevels, and circular graining visible through the sapphire case back.
🔹 Moonphase Accuracy:
- Unlike many moonphase watches that require adjustment every few years, the Luna Magna’s mechanism is accurate for 122 years before needing a correction.
This level of precision demonstrates Arnold & Son’s unwavering commitment to astronomical horology.
5. The Celestial Elegance of the Luna Magna
Owning a Luna Magna is about more than just wearing a watch—it is about experiencing the rhythm of the cosmos on your wrist.
📍 An Artistic Timepiece: Combining fine watchmaking with a celestial theme, making it a wearable piece of art.
📍 A Symbol of Horological Mastery: Featuring one of the most complex and visually striking moonphase displays ever created.
📍 A Collector’s Dream: Produced in limited quantities, ensuring exclusivity and desirability among connoisseurs.
This watch is for those who appreciate the intersection of haute horology, astronomy, and timeless elegance.
6. Pricing & Market Value
💰 Retail Price: £45,000 GBP ($55,000 USD)
💎 Secondary Market Price: £50,000–£65,000 GBP ($60,000–$75,000 USD), depending on condition, documentation, and market demand.
🔹 Why is it an Excellent Investment?
- Rare & Limited Edition: Low production numbers ensure exclusivity.
- Highly Complicated Moonphase Mechanism: Making it one of the most sought-after moonphase watches.
- Strong Collector’s Demand: As independent watchmaking continues to gain popularity, Arnold & Son’s value proposition strengthens.
Unlike mass-produced luxury watches, the Luna Magna represents true horological artistry, making it a compelling investment piece.
Final Thoughts – A Watch That Connects You to the Cosmos
The Arnold & Son Luna Magna is more than just a timepiece—it is an artistic and mechanical tribute to the celestial world. With its three-dimensional moonphase complication, exquisite hand-finishing, and remarkable accuracy, this watch is truly one of the most breathtaking creations in modern horology.
For collectors, enthusiasts, and connoisseurs, the Luna Magna is a timepiece that inspires wonder and admiration, reminding us that horology is not just about measuring time, but about capturing its essence in its most poetic form.
💬 Would you add this celestial marvel to your collection?
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