To the moon and back - Selten M1 moonphase

There are watches that feel special as soon as they come out of the box. There is no specific category, it could be a shiny new diver, a rugged field watch or in our case: a striking dress watch, in today’s  case it is 2 of them.

As many watch enthusiasts, I have developed an admiration for the uncommon, that is not to say that mainstream watches are not my thing, but when I see a new approach on design and construction, automatically I want to learn more.

Today we have a duo of watches from the micro brand Selten. A simple and minimalist take on the most romantic complication: the moonphase.

The changes between the 2 versions are not subtle, it’s not just a palette change, it really feels like another watch. Join me to discover these two hidden gems from the Hong Kong based brand, let’s begin.

The specifications 

Dress watches are complicated by nature, and I don’t mean in terms of features but on how and when you decide to wear it. 

The stainless-steel case of the M1 gives you flexibility because of its dimensions at 39mm by 45.5mm lug to lug. These features and dimensions make it feel less fragile and more robust, it has presence. The thin bezel allows the dial to breathe openly, and while the all black variant is as dark as any other dial I’ve seen before, the legibility is outstanding. The dial feels like is absorbing all the light, a bit like vantablack. On the other hand we have the black mother of pearl, this dial greets us with a wide spectrum of colours, from pink to green to blue a ding up with grey, I really hope the pictures made justice on what it is just a beautiful composition.

The leaf hands are elongated and very sharp, they add a nice, sophisticated touch, and at 6 o clock we are drawn to an aperture that contains a tantalum moonphase, yes you read that right! One of the rarest materials that can be found on earth. The aperture is large and because there is no writing on the dial apart from a tiny “Selten” at the edge of the case, this is why to me everything works in harmony.

The watch is powered by a modified Miyota 9015 movement to house the moonphase complication. From the back, the movement is visible including a customised rotor that has become Selten’s signature.

Turn the conical cupcake style crown to one side and hand winding is possible, turn the other way, and the mechanical feel of the moonphase performs, all with  no hidden pushers , all controlled via the crown.

On the wrist

When you see the pictures, it might feel that the M1 is simple in terms of details but is far from that. The symmetry, step bezel and muscular lugs are details that you start appreciating and with time, and the metal bracelet with a generous tapering, provides a more active use of the M1, it’s all in the details.

Wearing the M1 it’s an easy task and although there is no denying that this is a watch that is better suited for formal occasions, it never felt out of place with more casual attire. The black mother of pearl definitely makes a big statement, the reflections are beautiful to look at and although there is no lume on either version, legibility it’s very good overall.

The guilloche pattern of the MOP it’s definitely a contrast with the all-black version, one is elegant the other one is flamboyant, it is night and day.

The height of the watch it’s also a good point to highlight, the domed crystal takes the M1 at 11.4mm which is thinner that plenty watches out there, the proportions work.

Conclusions

Restrain it’s its own form of power, having a watch that can express so much with so little elements it’s a testament of good design. The M1 it’s one of those watches that are worn to enjoy, it’s classy and elegant but both versions include a small twist that allows the owner to enjoy them in different ways. 

If you are interested in this beautiful time piece make sure you follow Selten on Kickstarter at https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/seltenwatch/m1-moonphase-automatic-watch-by-selten?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaZRk92ka3wLNexT9LNFZhXw7G4YMOKXl3WQ1jb2N5JGQ9CKWW7EMfrROMo_aem_MQP3wWgLCZlo15wtGOHobw

Technical specs

Case Diameter: 39mmLug to Lug: 45.5mm

Case thickness: 10.7mm(without crystal) 11.4mm(with crystal)

Movement: Modified Miyota 9015

Movement Complication: Moonphase with 59-tooth gear

Water Resistance: 5 ATM

Price: Starting from $599 for the first 48 hours