This video will explain how to set the moon phase on most mechanical watches. A moon phase watch shows the current phase of the moon as it appears in the sky. Before we get started, it is important to be aware of the so-called “danger zone” when setting any calendar windows on your watch, including the moon phase display. You should never change the moon phase when your watch is showing 9pm to 3am. This is the time when the gears inside the movement engage to switch to the next day. Therefore, manually adjusting the moon phase during the “danger zone” time can damage the watch. We will offset this by changing the time to a “safe zone” prior to setting the moon phase.

Before setting the moon phase on a watch, first unscrew or pull out the winding crown to the winding position. Wind the movement 20 to 40 times on an automatic watch or until you feel tension on a manual watch. Now pull the winding crown all the way to the last notch to the time setting position. Turn the hands to display 6:15 so that you are in the “safe zone.” Push the winding crown all the way back and screw it back into the case if necessary.

Most moon phase complications are set via a hidden button on the side of the case. Since the pusher is usually flush with the case, you will need a pusher tool to press the button. Some moon phase watches come equipped with a pusher tool. But, if you do not have a tool, you can use any pointy object that will not scratch your watch. We recommend either a wooden skewer or the tip of a ballpoint pen. Take the tool and press the moon phase corrector button, which will advance the phase of the moon on the display disc. Keep pressing the button until you reach the correct phase.

Once you have set the correct moon phase, pull or unscrew the winding crown all the way out to the time setting position. Adjust the time. Push the winding crown all the way back, and screw it back into the case if necessary.

Whenever possible, always refer to the official manufacturer’s instruction manual for more details on how to set the moon phase on your specific watch model.