In the realm of horology, where heritage waltzes with innovation, the MAEN Lunar Classic 36 emerges as a captivating study in refined elegance. Priced at £808, this timepiece doesn’t merely tell time; it narrates a story steeped in the poetic cadence of celestial cycles and the meticulous artistry of watchmaking. MAEN, a name that itself whispers of lunar allure, meaning “moon” in Old Dutch, imbues this creation with a profound connection to the cosmic ballet above. The Lunar Classic 36 is a testament to the enduring appeal of classic design, drawing inspiration from the sophisticated silhouettes of the 1940s, yet rendered with a distinctly modern sensibility.
The 36mm case, crafted from 316L stainless steel, possesses a deceptive wrist presence. Elegantly elongated lugs ensure it sits prominently, feeling subtly larger than its stated dimensions. This is further accentuated by a boldly high-polished bezel, a gleaming frame that draws the eye inwards to the multi-layered dial beneath a double-domed sapphire crystal.
The interplay of finishes is masterfully executed, with satin-brushed surfaces on the lugs and case providing a seamless transition to the all-new flat-link bracelet (though the specifications mention a custom tropic strap, one can envision the sophisticated versatility this design offers).
At the heart of the Lunar Classic 36 beats the Elaboré Grade Sellita SW280-1 automatic movement, a reliable workhorse operating at 28,800 vibrations per hour and offering approximately 40 hours of power reserve.
For the discerning enthusiast, an upgrade to a Top Grade Sellita SW280-1 is also available, a rhodium-plated and fully decorated movement with blued screws, visible through an open caseback – a feature exclusive to this higher-grade option. This Top Grade movement is regulated in five positions, achieving a commendable middle rate of 4 ±4 seconds per day.
However, the true soul of the Lunar Classic 36 lies in its striking dial, a carefully considered composition designed to showcase the eponymous moonphase complication without sacrificing intricate detail. The dial’s centre features a circular brushed finish, providing a subtle texture against the raised and high-polished indices.
A contrasting sand-blasted texture graces the moonphase display and the chapter ring, adding depth and visual interest. The high-polished and heat-blued seconds hand elegantly traces the curve of the domed chapter ring, which gently slopes downwards towards the bezel. Finally, a raised and textured disc serves as a refined backdrop, further highlighting the captivating dance of the moon.
Available in four evocative colours – creamWhite, Midnight blue, Salmon, and graphite – the Lunar Classic 36 offers a palette to suit diverse tastes. With a case thickness of just 9.80mm (11.35mm including the glass) and a lug-to-lug width of 44mm, it strikes a harmonious balance on the wrist. The MAEN Lunar Classic 36 is more than just a watch; it is a wearable piece of celestial poetry, a testament to timeless design and meticulous craftsmanship, destined to be admired by those who appreciate the subtle language of horological artistry.
