Longines’ Master Collection excels at entry-level complications that are affordably priced – last year’s annual calendar is a great buy – and the latest in the range is a moon phase and date.

The Master Collection Moonphase is a watch that’s clear in what it wants to to. Aside from the time, it has a pointer date and moon indicators in a sub-dial at six, for a clean and symmetrical dial.

The Master Collection Moonphase ref. L2.919.4.78.3

It’s powered by the L899 movement, an automatic based on the ETA A31.L91, which is an upgraded version of the common ETA 2892. The most obvious functional upgrade is the extended 64-hour power reserve, achieved in part by reducing the beat rate of the balance wheel from 4Hz to 3.5Hz.

Like many other models in the Master Collection, the new moon phase is offered in two cases sizes – 40mm and 42mm – both in stainless steel. Dial options are silvered barleycorn guilloche, black barleycorn, or sun-ray brushed metallic blue. The smaller, 40mm case is also offered with brilliant-cut diamond hour markers on all dial styles.

The Master Collection Moonphase 42mm

The ref. L2.909.4.97.0 with diamond markers

Key facts

Diameter: 40mm or 42mm
Material: Stainless steel
Water resistance: 30m

Movement: L899
Functions: Hours, minutes, second, moon phase and date
Winding: Automatic

Frequency: 25,200bph, or 3.5Hz
Power reserve: 64 hours

Strap: Leather strap or steel bracelet

Price: US$2,350 for all versions, US$2,750 for the 40mm with diamond markers

The Master Collection Moonphase is already available at Longines boutiques and retailers. The model reference is ref. L2.909.4.XX.X for the 40mm versions, and ref. L2.919.4.XX.X for the 42mm.