Pleiades, the open star cluster located in the constellation of Taurus, is given the number M45 in the Messier Catalogue. Also known as “Subaru” in Japan, it has long been used to mark the time and seasons. All of the designs in the M45 Collection are inspired by Pleiades. By inheriting design elements cherished throughout Orient Star’s history such as lugs that gently extend from the case, elegant roman indices and leaf-shaped hands, the collection expresses the eternal flow of time that remains unchanged just like the Pleiades star cluster.

　The M45 F7 Mechanical Moon Phase is the latest model to be released from this collection. The new model depicts a scene of “occultation” in which the moon overlaps with the Pleiades star cluster as it orbits the Earth, while retaining the previously mentioned intricate details that appear throughout the entire collection. The clearest expression of this concept is the monotone look of the black and grey colour scheme. The dial’s detailed stamped pattern expresses the countless stars adorning the night sky, and changes its appearance depending on the angle from which light enters the dial. Further, the thick wrap coating on the dial provides a pleasing sense of depth, as if you are truly gazing at a starry night sky.

　The occultation phenomenon is expressed in more ways than one. Silver-coloured dots are placed alongside the indices as if evoking the most radiant stars among the myriad in the night sky. Multiple rounds of pad printing on the black roman indices create a sense of three-dimensionality and shading, giving the appearance of clouds floating in the night sky. These indices are another essential element in the depiction of the occultation scene.

　The intricate design elements are achieved thanks to Shinshu Watch Studio. One of the most notable features of the M45 F7 Mechanical Moon Phase is the pad printing on the indices and the wrap coating on the dial. The former refers to the technique of pressing a gelatine ruler onto the dial to give the numerical and alphabetical elements a plump look. Orient Star uses multiple rounds of pad printing to create highly legible three-dimensional indices and scales, but this is a painstaking process that requires the dial to be dried after each printing round.

　Wrap coating is another essential technique for Orient Star’s designs. A thick layer of transparent coating is applied between the paint on the dial and the printed elements such as the indices. Transparent coating several times thicker than what is typically used is applied to create a sense of distance between the paint on the dial and the printed elements. For time pieces inspired by outer space such as the newly launched model, this technique makes it possible to create a sensation of depth.

　Needless to say, the other details of the M45 F7 Mechanical Moon Phase are finished with just as much care to achieve a harmonious balance of mystical design and practicality. One example of this is the leaf-shaped hands: two different finishes are separated at the ridge – a hairline finish on one side and polished on the other – to ensure that the wearer can clearly tell the time even against the dark dial colour. The black plating on the stainless steel case evokes the night sky that remains unchanged from ancient times, while simultaneously lending the watch a sharp, modern impression. The innovative appearance is sure to capture the hearts of watch aficionados who are fond of edgy designs.

　The model is equipped with the calibre F7M65 with moon phase function, offering a power reserve of 50 hours and high accuracy of +15 seconds to -5 seconds per day. The movement features a carefully-chamfered rotor that is visible from the see-through case back.

　Inspired by the occultation of the moon, the black and grey monotone M45 F7 Mechanical Moon Phase features elaborate details such as a stamped pattern on the dial, wrap coating to give depth, and delicate three-dimensional indices, to capture the wonders of the vast universe in a small watch just 41 mm in diameter while simultaneously exuding a modern and cool vibe. The excellent time piece merges the type of concept that Orient Star is known for with a contemporary feel.