I have several (obsessions, that is) already but I'd like to add a moonphase to obsess over. There doesn't seem to be an "original" moonphase, the way there is with "the original dive watch" or other firsts. Which OBTAINABLE (i.e. no more than $10-15k) moonphase should I put in my 'wanted' list? The Longines Master Collection or JLC Master Calendar is kind of what I have in mind
There are new and vintage Omega moon phases as well; worth a look in my opinion. Of the two you posted above, my choice would be the JLC. If you are going to have the date and moon phase, why not balance it with the day and month? The Longines dial looks a bit too empty for my tastes.
One advantage of the Longines is the price - even with the diamond hour markers as shown it's south of 3K USD, and without them it's even less. There are also variants with black and blue dials, arabic or roman numerals, strap or bracelet... As you can probably tell, I was drooling over them myself just yesterday because this Hodinkee write up alerted me to them: https://www.hodinkee.com/articles/longines-master-collection-moonphase
For what its worth I agree. The date pointer hand of the JLC also harks back to some very nice vintage watches. Something you don't see much of these days.
I absolutely prefer the JLC on several fronts. But not everyone can afford a JLC, and so for some the price difference of approx. 7K USD between these two would be a major consideration. Heck, even those that can afford the JLC might give some thought to instead using the money to get the Longines and another watch, or two, or three - you know, the kind of person that is obsessed with watches - not like any of us on here
Check out the Master Collection by Longines. I used to own one and the only reason I let it go is I realized I didn’t need all the moon phase stuff.
Seems like you answered your own question. You like the JLC and brand new it is less than $10k, so within your price limit. Doubt you’ll find a moonphase as good or desirable.
The JLC Master Ultra Thin Moon is the one on my short list. I have tried it on and it wears like a dream. It looks great in both the silver and black dial versions in stainless steel, and is a real stunner in rose gold with either dial, IMO. (Photos borrowed from the web.)
Sorry ya'll, I didn't mean to imply that these were my only two choices and that I was trying to choose between them. Just style-wise, this is what I'm being drawn towards so I was curious if there was anything specific you'd recommend I check out. And then obsess over until it is my precious. If new, you're talking about Speedmaster moonphase? I think those are too busy. Maybe you had a vintage "Cosmic" in mind. Do you (or anyone) happen to know of a good overview on the evolution of those? Yeah, that's probably what subliminally prompted me to post. Anything specific come to mind? I'm not opposed to vintage, once I learn what to look for with that make/model.
Kinda answered my own question -- https://www.omegawatches.com/vintage-watches?v_watch_functions=4133
I think we all understood your question. The point is, if your budget is $10,000, the you can’t find anything better than that JLC you like. Now, if your budget was $5k, I’d recommend a lot of other watches. But if can and want to spend $10k, get the JLC.
I own the Rose Gold version of the JLC. I love it and it was a gift ( well authorized acquisition) from Mrs S so it’s not going anywhere. I’ve seen the Longines in the metal and it does not compare to the finishing level of the JLC. IMO you cannot go wrong with the JLC in SS. It is a classic design that works with any attire.
Nobody really “needs” a mechanical watch either...or a watch at all if you have a cell phone. These are all just toys...