Paul Gerber
explains more in
this Q and A.
Can it be retrofitted into an existing strap?
The Micro Moon phase can be retrofitted to an existing strap if the strap
meets the measurements mentioned above. There is an additional charge to
do the retrofit.
Do you plan to find a way to integrate into a metal bracelet?
For sure that is an option, however, it is even more difficult in terms of the
measurement restrictions mentioned above since a steel bracelet is not typi-
cally 4mm thick. What will be an option for sure is a gold enclosure, price
upon inquiry.
How much does it cost?
The moon phase with titanium enclosure will be $995 without the strap.
Our leather straps start as low as $80 and go up from there. The caoutchouc
(natural leather) strap is $90 including installation.
Is there any lume?
Right now I only have the 18-karat gold moon without Luminova. Different
versions are planned, but it is too soon to talk about them.
How accurate is the moonphase?
I calculated the gear ratio in a conventional manner with a one-day varia-
tion over a three-year period. After three years the battery will have to be
replaced in any case. Re-adjusting the movement while replacing the battery
will eliminate the one-day error.
What was your biggest challenge to create this?
The biggest challenge was size as it needs to fit inside the strap. You can
imagine the whole device can fit on a fingertip, any bigger it would not look
right. Yes, size was definitely the main challenge as it was difficult to achieve
the objective of a three-year operation time – all integrated into the thick-
ness of a fine leather strap.
I know the moonphase is battery powered, but can you explain how the
electric power is being converted into the kinetic motion to move the disc?
The moonphase is obviously battery powered. A crystal controlled oscillator
producing only a few pulses every hour controls a step-motor which powers
several gears with the correct ratio to turn the moon phase disc once in 59
days. I’m utilizing a Swiss movement, which offers extremely small electron-
ics, which together with my moon phase mechanical movement are so small
as to fit in this capsule.
Are these available now and how long for delivery?
They are ready with a delivery time of one month.
Any warranty included?
I offer a two-year warranty.
Any specifics that you might like to add?
This project entailed several obstacles. There were no sapphire crystals
available in this small size, so I had to have them manufactured to my own
specifications; the same with O-rings to make it watertight to 3 atm. They
were also difficult to find.
Where can collectors buy them?
In North America collectors can buy directly from Moritz Elsaesser at Mainly
Watches via www.swisswatchmakerharvardsq.com or you can call to learn
more at 508-429-3004. Collectors outside North America can contact Gerber
directly via www.gerber-uhren.ch
WINTER 2018 | INTERNATIONAL WATCH | 47