Setting new standards for the display of one of the most majestic of classical horologic complications, the magnificent Luna Magna by Arnold and Son boasts the exceptional astronomical display of a three dimensional spherical moon, set against a starry night sky of gold-speckled deep blue aventurine, in an exclusive limited edition of only twenty eight pieces.

In its 44mm case of 18ct (5N) rose gold the Luna Magna is a substantial piece, with considerable presence on the wrist, but thanks to the signature Arnold and Son design, the case is basin-shaped, with lugs which drop away and down, and around its side it curves inwards so as to facilitate a comfortable fit on any wrist.

The tall sides of the box-style sapphire crystal rise above the bezel, and create a sense of airy spaciousness beneath, to accommodate the pronounced spherical centrepiece which dominates the display. Set against a background of shimmering aventurine which captures the night sky to stunning effect, the large, round moon is manufactured in two halves of light marble and matching dark aventurine, and it rotates on its central axis to depict the lunar cycle.

The hours and minutes are displayed on a decentralised inner dial of white lacquer, whose distinctive glossy surface features roman numerals, with arrow-tipped blue hands to indicate the time.

Beating within, the new A&S1021 manual winding calibre is configured around the rotating sphere, and through the sapphire crystal underside, the spectacle of the two-tone moon can be appreciated as can the beautiful decorative finishings of radiating bands of Côtes de Genève and the highly polished anglage which defines the edges of the plates. Designed and developed by Arnold and Son’s sister company La Joux Perret, the complex movement is finished to the uncompromising standards of traditional haute horlogerie.

Notably, the mechanism is so precise that if allowed to run continuously, the moon phase would require an adjustment just once in 122 years. In the centre of the movement a secondary moon phase display indicates precisely the age of the moon, and also provides a reference with which to calibrate the Luna Magna’s moon phase setting via the crown. Deriving an impressive ninety hours of power reserve the Manufacture movement beats at 21’600vib/h (3Hz).

In the creation of the Luna Magna, Arnold and Son, whose name is intertwined with the history of marine navigation,  have unveiled a new Masterpiece, one which represents not only their heritage, but the intrinsic links between horology and the night sky. It is presented on a dark blue alligator leather strap with 18ct pin buckle.