Introducing: the Isotope Chronograph Compax Moonshot Terra Maris
Isotope proudly unveils its inaugural chronograph series, featuring a groundbreaking design element and available in two distinct versions: the Stealth and the 'Terra Maris', created in collaboration with Miguel Seabra.
The Isotope Chronograph Compax Moonshot®️ is set to make a profound impact in the watchmaking world with its revolutionary sub-dial design. This world-first feature streamlines the tricompax layout, offering enhanced readability for both timekeeping and chronograph functions. The Moonshot's daring aesthetics are further accentuated by a unique double-domed sapphire crystal, positioning Isotope's first chronograph as a remarkable standout among its contemporaries.
Breaking away from traditional chronograph conventions, the Moonshot delivers a fresh and innovative experience for horology enthusiasts. Each timepiece is meticulously crafted from a single block of Grade 5 Titanium using advanced CNC technology and DLC followed by precise hand-finishing to achieve a sophisticated, dark allure. This retro-futuristic watch pays homage to the space-inspired chronographs of the 1970s while embodying a contemporary spirit.
The Moonshot draws its inspiration from the iconic intergalactic graphic novel 'The Incal', created by writer Alejandro Jodorowsky and artist Jean Giraud (also known as Moebius). Renowned for its pioneering visuals and complex themes, 'The Incal' has left an indelible mark on science fiction literature. Isotope founder José Mendes Miranda's deep appreciation for graphic novels, particularly 'The Incal', is vividly reflected in the audacious design of the Moonshot (please note that 'The Incal' authors and their estates do not endorse the Moonshot).
Powered by the reliable Swiss Landeron 73 movement, the Moonshot is a robust Automatic Compax Chronograph. Its 41mm case and 49.5mm lug-to-lug dimensions boast a distinctive shape that is anticipated to inspire future designs for years to come.
The initial production batch of the Isotope Chronograph Compax Moonshot commenced in August, featuring two iterations ready for shipment in late October: the Stealth and the Terra Maris, each limited initially to 25 pieces. Both versions come equipped with a Grade 5 Titanium bracelet and an exclusive, cut-to-size FKM rubber strap.
Following four years of dedicated development, the Moonshot is presented with both a Grade 5 Titanium bracelet and a bespoke FKM strap, underscoring Isotope's commitment to quality and detail.
After the first batch is dispatched, a second batch is scheduled for delivery by mid-December, followed by a third batch anticipated in early March. Thereafter, a consistent delivery process will be established.
The Moonshot Stealth and Terra Maris editions are individually numbered but not limited in quantity, with production constrained by time and demand.
The Materialisation of a Fictional Universe
"I have always been captivated by novels that depict dystopian worlds far removed from our reality," shares Isotope founder José Mendes Miranda. "Our new chronograph boasts a shape and aesthetic unlike anything currently available on the market. We aimed to depart from traditional chronograph typologies, particularly the numerous vintage-inspired re-editions and interpretations that saturate the market, to create something truly unique. It took me, our award-winning Industrial Designer, our Engineer and our Watchmakers four years of research and development to achieve the perfect balance for the sub-dial discs and optimal case proportions. The Chronograph Compax Moonshot represents Isotope's most challenging timepiece to date; we meticulously calibrated the weight of the sub-dial discs to ensure precise rotation, providing a novel approach to time recording that we have patented."
'Terra Maris' and a Capsule Collection
While the Moonshot Stealth embodies an intergalactic essence, the Moonshot 'Terra Maris' showcases an earthly colour palette dominated by rich browns and blues—a combination previously featured on the Isotope GMT 0º 'Terra Maris' limited edition launched two years ago in collaboration with esteemed watch journalist, author, and broadcaster Miguel Seabra.
"When José Mendes Miranda, my friend and founder of Isotope Watches, invited me to conceptualise a limited edition of the GMT 0º, I wanted it to reflect the stunning coastal environment where I reside," explains Miguel Seabra. "Brown and blue symbolise the land and the sea, capturing the essence of Cascais, the beautiful seaside resort at Europe's westernmost point where the continent meets the ocean. Thus, the Latin name 'Terra Maris'—land and sea. We decided to patent the 'Terra Maris' nomenclature and extend this colour scheme into a capsule collection, with the Moonshot 'Terra Maris' as its second embodiment. To align with the Moonshot's retro-futuristic ethos, we adapted the brown and blue hues into gradient, subdued tones that harmonise with the matte finish of the Grade 5 Titanium case."
"I am proud to collaborate with a microbrand as innovative as Isotope Watches. Microbrands have excelled in making the world of mechanical watchmaking more accessible and offering alternatives for those seeking something unconventional—like the Moonshot, with its rotating discs replacing traditional hands on the sub-dials and its uniquely shaped case," adds Miguel Seabra. "As a fervent admirer of the maverick designs from the 70s, I recognise echoes of that era in the Moonshot, yet it remains a resolutely modern timepiece that evokes science fiction and the space age. The 'Terra Maris' concept effectively brings the Moonshot from the vastness of space down to the serenity of the seaside."
The Moonshot 'Terra Maris' is presented with a three-link, tapered Grade 5 Titanium bracelet and a blue, cut-to-size FKM rubber strap, both featuring butterfly deployant clasps.
About Miguel Seabra
A graduate in History of Arts, Miguel Seabra has been travelling the world covering watches for 30 years and tennis for 34 years. He feels privileged to have both his passions for professions, even though sometimes finds it hard to change the chip! Editor of Espiral do Tempo magazine and commentator for Eurosport, he is a member of the Academy and former member of the jury of the Grand Prix d’Horlogerie de Genève and also is a member of the jury of the International Tennis Hall Of Fame.
Technical Specifications:
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Case: Sandblasted Titanium Grade 5, finished and protected with Diamond-like carbon (DLC), sapphire crystal exhibition case back, four screws
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Crystal: Double-domed sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating
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Dimensions: Case diameter 41mm x 15mm / 49.5mm (with lugs)
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Crown: Sandblasted Ti5 screw-down crown at 3 o'clock with Lacrima logo
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Dial: Embossed, Brown dégradé dial with Blue Moondiscs over sub-dials, Turbine chapter ring with Super Luminova Grade X1
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Hands: Lacrima hands with Super-LumiNova Grade X1
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Water Resistance: 100m / 10 atm
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Bracelet: Sandblasted Titanium Grade 5, signed butterfly buckle, DLC, Quick Release, screwed links, tapered from 20mm to 18mm
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Strap: Blue FKM, 20mm tapered to 18mm cut-to-measure Strap with Quick Release system and DLC signed butterfly buckle
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Movement: Swiss Landeron 73
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Type: Compax Chronograph
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Jewels: 28 Jewels, mechanical, automatic
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Bridge: Top Decorated
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Rotor: Signed with Isotope logo
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Functions: Small seconds at 9H, Minutes at 3H, Hours at 6H
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Power reserve: 42 hours
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Frequency: 28,800 BPH
Note from Isotope's Co-founder:
Until the end of the year, the Moonshot will be available at £2,250 plus taxes. Last year, we committed to keeping the watch under $3,000 plus taxes; however, the premium materials, accessories, and advanced technical solutions we've employed make this a costly product to produce. There is truly nothing comparable to the Moonshot in terms of design and value, so we encourage you to seize this opportunity while it lasts.
In the new year, our prices will increase by 10 to 20% as we will no longer be able to maintain our current low margins. Rest assured, the watch you are acquiring is built to endure, and we have spared no expense or effort to ensure it is as perfect and practical as possible.
Thank you for your unwavering support,
José Miranda
