Revolutionizing the Moon Phase Watch Mechanism: The Lunase Approach

This article delves into the accuracy issues of moon phase displays in watches. Traditional mechanisms use simple occluding disks, failing to accurately simulate the elliptical terminator and its varying speed during the lunar cycle. The author presents Lunase, a novel mechanism using multiple semi-circular gears working in concert to more precisely mimic the waxing and waning moon. A clever cam mechanism resets the phase automatically. The article also explores alternative moon phase display solutions, analyzing their feasibility and accuracy. The Lunase project culminated in a working prototype desk clock, proving the mechanism's viability.