The New Union Glashütte Belisar Chronograph Moon Phase

A few months back, we delved into our impressions of the refreshed Belisar Chronograph series and while we’ve been pleased with the design and impressed by the overall quality, the dimensions were on the large side. Now, it’s time to unveil the latest iteration of another Union Glashütte classic: the Belisar Chronograph Moon Phase, presented in a sleek 42mm case, a more fitting option considering the classic complete calendar display of this edition.

The Belisar Chronograph Moon Phase series has consistently epitomised Union’s commitment to crafting sporty yet elegant timepieces with classic aesthetics. However, the previous 44mm diameter proved a hurdle for many. The new stainless steel 42mm version maintains the classic and sporty essence while presenting a sleeker profile, now 14.80mm – about 0.5mm thinner than its predecessors. The bezel shape has also transformed, evolving from rounded to angular in this latest iteration.

The hallmark feature, the screwed case flanks, keeps its presence, creating a stepped look. The chronograph pushers are now rectangular with rounded corners, while the crown retains its shape and flutes for a good grip. The weekday corrector is at its usual place at 10 o’clock, and the water resistance is the same 100m.

Within the Belisar Chronograph Moon Phase 42mm, dial options include white, black, and the most recent addition, grey, which comes on a bracelet. Let’s take a closer look at the grey variant. Its colour harmonizes with the dial’s multilayered design, balancing legibility and aesthetic appeal. The inner bezel slopes gently and features crisp white Arabic numerals for the date ring. Moving to the main dial surface, you’ll find a white minutes/seconds track and hour indices – Arabic numerals at the cardinal positions and sharp trapezoid indices elsewhere. Notably, all indices are applied and treated with Super-LumiNova, a feature absent in the earlier Chronograph Moon Phase.

With their finely azuré-finished inner parts, the recessed subdials add depth to the dial, their outer rings slightly sunken. Each subdial serves dual functions: the one at 12 o’clock hosts a 30-minute chronograph counter with triangular apertures for day and month indications, while the subdial at 9 o’clock displays running seconds and a 24-hour indicator. Finally, the subdial at 6 o’clock showcases the moon phase with the gold-coloured moon against the starry blue background and a 12-hour chronograph counter. The main handset, featuring nickel-coloured hour, minutes, running seconds, and open-tip date hand, complements the blued chronograph hands and 24-hour hand, creating a harmonious ensemble befitting a classically elegant timepiece.

Powering the watch is the automatic calibre UNG-25.S1, equipped with a silicon balance spring and boasting an improved power reserve of up to 65 hours. Based on the ETA 7751 movement, it has been meticulously updated and customised by Union Glashütte. The striped ball-bearing rotor, adorned with a logo cut-out, adds a distinctive touch, while perlage on the main plate and blued screws provide both contrast and aesthetic appeal. Notably, a golden medallion confirms the incorporation of silicon technology.

The grey-dialed Union Glashütte Belisar Chronograph Moon Phase can be paired with a leather strap or a stainless steel bracelet. The bracelet features a double-fold fastener with two release push buttons for added security and convenience. The price is EUR 3,700. For more information, visit union-glashuette.com.