We often argue about the real-world practicality of complications around here. What do you actually use that chronograph for" The HEV" Let’s not even go there. Ironically, the most controversial complication is objectively the most useful, that being the date. There?s another one that often falls on the list of superfluous complications, though, and that?s the vaunted moonphase. Just how useful is it" I?m not quite sure, but there?s no denying its appeal, and we rarely see them appear in mechanical form in the sub $1,000 category. The Collins Automatic from Melbourne Watch Co. is just such an exception.

Melbourne Watch Company has been operating out of, well, Melbourne since 2013 offering a mix of formal and sport watches, a few of which we?ve covered in years past. The Collins is a straightforward take on business casual, with a sterile design that offers a moonphase as well as day of the week and date complications using a Rhonda quartz movement. New for this year, Melbourne Watch Co. is offering the Collins in moonphase form with an automatic Sellita movement. 
The Collins Auto captures a distinct look and feel thanks in large part to the blue dial. While it?s also offered in white, the blue brings a depth to the otherwise simple dial that elevates the watch just enough to make things interesting. There is not much in the way of texture, appearing matte blue at a glance, but when paired with the domed sapphire crystal can appear anywhere ...