Supernova Moonphase

The cosmic "Big Bang" moment of Stepan Sarpaneva's illustrious career, the Supernova is the watch that introduced the exceptional Finnish master watchmaker to the world. When it first appeared in 2006, its stark, uncompromising—even brutalist—aesthetic ensured it stood apart from the comfortable conventions of traditional watch design, capturing the attention of collectors and establishing itself as one of the defining creations of modern independent watchmaking.

Revived for 2026, the Supernova returns with subtle refinements while remaining faithful to the bold character that made the original so distinctive. Every element retains the sculptural presence and unmistakable identity that has become synonymous with Sarpaneva.

Machined from high-grade Finnish Outokumpu Supra 316L/4435 stainless steel, the 40mm case is characterised by deep scalloped recesses around its flanks, creating dramatic contrasts between brushed and polished surfaces. Torx screw heads recessed into chamfered apertures around the bezel further emphasise the industrial aesthetic. Despite its imposing appearance, the case measures a surprisingly wearable 40mm in diameter and just 11.2mm thick.

Beneath the sapphire crystal lies a richly layered five-part stainless steel dial. Available in either deep black or blue, the base is decorated with star-shaped cut-outs that reveal the movement beneath, adding impressive depth and texture.

At the heart of the display is the iconic Sarpaneva Moonface, now an unmistakable signature of the brand. Two opposing solid gold moons rotate beneath the dial, each passing beneath a black aperture at six o'clock to indicate the lunar cycle with a 29.5-day moonphase display.

Applied hour markers extend inward from a suspended stainless steel chapter ring, while finely tapered stainless steel hands provide excellent legibility without distracting from the dramatic architecture of the dial.

Turning the watch over reveals one of the Supernova's most captivating features. Visible through the sapphire caseback, the free-spinning Magnetar Turbine automatically winds the modified Soprod A10 movement while creating a mesmerising visual effect reminiscent of the shimmering aurora. Operating at 28,800 vibrations per hour (4Hz), the movement delivers approximately 42 hours of power reserve.

As expected from Sarpaneva, the finishing throughout is exceptional. Each watch is individually produced to order and can be personalised with a choice of black or blue dial, together with Moonface and handset combinations in either red or white gold, allowing owners to create a highly individual timepiece.

Twenty years after its debut, the Sarpaneva Supernova Moonphase remains one of the most recognisable and visually arresting watches in contemporary independent horology.