▼ Summary
– The author admits to owning multiple MoonSwatches and acknowledges Swatch’s successful strategy of extracting significant revenue from fans through these $285 watches.
– Despite being a fan of the Omega X Swatch collaboration, the author has consistently disliked the Moonshine Gold versions, viewing them as cynical attempts to exploit superfans.
– The new MoonSwatch Mission To Earthphase Moonshine Gold Cold Moon has re-engaged the author, combining elements from the all-white Snoopy model and Earthphase versions with an upgraded strap.
– A key feature of the Cold Moon is a unique snowflake lasered onto its Moonshine Gold moon phase indicator, which Swatch claims makes each watch distinct.
– Swatch has achieved a notable manufacturing feat by producing these unique snowflake designs at the high volumes typical for MoonSwatch releases.
Owning more MoonSwatches than I’d like to admit has become something of a personal quirk, and it turns out I’m far from alone. Swatch’s brilliant strategy of releasing these accessible timepieces in limited editions and collaborations keeps enthusiasts coming back, happily parting with their money in steady increments. The brand’s partnership with Omega has proven exceptionally lucrative, pulling in hundreds of millions from collectors and casual fans alike. While I’ve generally admired the playful, accessible spirit of the MoonSwatch line, the Moonshine Gold editions never quite won me over. These versions, which incorporate a tiny amount of Omega’s proprietary 18-karat pale gold alloy in slightly varied placements, felt more like a tactic to squeeze extra cash from completionists than a meaningful upgrade.
Just when I believed my MoonSwatch phase had concluded, after even upgrading each of mine with the official color-coordinated rubber straps, Swatch pulled me back in. The latest release, the MoonSwatch Mission To Earthphase Moonshine Gold Cold Moon, combines the best elements of earlier models. It takes the popular all-white Snoopy design, widely considered a standout in the collection, and merges it with the aesthetic of the Earthphase editions. This new version also swaps the original strap for a much better white and blue rubber velcro band, improving both comfort and style. But the real attraction isn’t just the refreshed look.
The Cold Moon’s standout feature involves its Moonshine Gold moon phase indicator. A tiny snowflake is laser-engraved onto this golden element, and Swatch asserts that each snowflake design is entirely one-of-a-kind, much like an actual snowflake in nature. Given the massive quantities of MoonSwatches the company produces annually, guaranteeing each snowflake engraving is unique represents a notable manufacturing achievement. Adding to the charm, a hidden Snoopy graphic appears on the dial when placed under UV light, offering a fun surprise for dedicated fans.
(Source: Wired)
