Short answer
A Rendez-Vous Moon Phase My Star replica copies the Jaeger-LeCoultre Rendez-Vous Moon, a ladies dress watch with a moon aperture at 6 o'clock and a star on the dial. The one detail that separates a credible replica from a cheap one is the moon phase itself. A true moon phase advances once per day and runs the full lunar cycle in about 29.5 days. A cheap copy uses a day and night wheel that rotates in 24 hours and shows the same image twice. Test that function first, then work through the dial, star, case and movement.
What you are inspecting
The Rendez-Vous Moon is a round dress watch, usually 36 mm to 38.5 mm, in steel or rose gold. The dial is mother of pearl with diamond indices, and the moon window sits at 6 o'clock. The star is a fixed applique on most references, not a printed shape. Replica quality varies between listings, so treat each watch as its own case.
Before you start
- A 10x loupe or a phone macro lens
- Side lighting, not direct overhead light
- A soft cloth for the dial and crystal
- The reference number quoted in the listing
Step by step
- Ask the seller for two photos of the moon window taken 12 hours apart on the same day.
- Compare the two photos: if the full moon image has moved to the opposite side, the disc is a day and night wheel, not a moon phase.
- Note the moon position, wait seven days, and look again: a real moon phase moves roughly one quarter of the cycle.
- Turn the crown through each position and confirm the order of winding, date, moon setting and time setting.
- Check the star with the loupe for a raised applique with clean edges and even polish.
- Tilt the dial toward a window and watch the mother of pearl shift tone; a printed pearl finish stays flat.
- Inspect the diamond indices for metal settings rather than glue dots.
- Measure the case across the bezel with calipers and compare the number to the reference.
- Read the caseback engraving under the loupe for even depth and correct letter spacing.
- Work the bracelet clasp and end links for side play and sharp edges.
- Ask which movement is inside: a Swiss or Japanese base with a moon module, or a generic quartz or automatic copy.
Common tells
- Moon disc that flips twice a day
- Printed pearl texture on a plastic dial
- Star that sits flat against the dial
- Engraving that feels shallow or painted
- Crown that sets the moon phase with the date instead of its own position
- Case size off by 1 mm or more from the reference
Setting notes
On any moon phase watch, avoid adjusting the moon disc while the mechanism is engaged near midnight. Move the hands to 6 o'clock first, set the moon, then set the time. This applies to genuine and replica watches alike and prevents damage to the disc gear.
Legal note
Counterfeit watches are illegal to import and sell in the United States. Customs can seize a shipment, and a seller can face civil claims from the brand. Buy with that risk in mind, and keep any listing terms in writing.