Panerai is an iconic brand, a perfect blend of Italian design with Swiss technology.
If you’re unfamiliar with Panerai watches, you may struggle to differentiate between them all. It’s true that within the Florentine brand, many of their designs are based on signature elements. In fact, collections can be divided into four main categories – Luminor, Luminor Due, Radiomir and Submersible, each offering an extensive range of designs. So, although the brand might have a recurrent aesthetic, you can find exciting watches with great attention to detail to suit your personal style.
For those looking to deepen their understanding of luxury watchmaking, Panerai is the perfect place to start. Established over 160 years ago by Giovanni Panerai, the company specializes in high quality watches and partnerships with both the Royal Italian Navy and the US Navy Seals. In the early 20th century, the company started the use of Rolex–engineered dive watches and patented “Radiomir” luminescent coating technology, helping to revolutionize the watchmaking industry.
In recent years, Panerai has become a major player in the luxury watchmaking industry. Panerai’s iconic cushion case design has been somewhat refined and perfected over the years, but the company is perhaps best known for its uncompromising engineering and craftsmanship.
Every watch is carefully produced with extreme attention to detail and precise construction. For those wishing to purchase a watch that offers impeccable style, unrivalled precision, and supreme quality, Panerai should be an obvious choice.
For over 50 years, Panerai shifted between various locations in Florence, and in the 1920’s, it moved to the building it is currently located in, the Archbishop’s Palace at the Florence Cathedral. It operates under its present name, Orologeria Svizzera, and has become synonymous with high-quality watches in Florence.
That said, Panerai watches are now manufactured in Neuchâtel, Switzerland.
One of the first watches that comes to mind when Panerai is mentioned is the PAM 111, an all-time favourite amongst fans of the brand. It made its debut in 2002, showcasing its OP Calibre XI workhorse movement with a 44mm Luminor case and an exhibition caseback. Visible through the double-domed sapphire is a highly legible black sandwich dial with hour, minute, and second hands – perfect for any occasion when paired with its Everest rubber or leather strap.
Another popular model is the Luminor Marina PAM00180, built for durability with its rubber strap.
The Luminor Marina is a classic collection of Panerai watches and is one of the most recognizable and iconic models in the industry. They are known for their steadfast movement and their unique design which features a 44–mm wide case, a thickness of 17–mm, and a scratch resistant sapphire crystal. The trademark crown guard and the iconic sandwich dial make the Luminor Marina stand out in the horological crowd.
The chunky look of the watch did not go unnoticed by the film world. Action stars such as Sylvester Stallone wore the Marina in the 2008 Rambo movie. It’s not the first time that he has worn a Panerai in one of his movies. In fact, in 2020, a Panerai Luminor he wore in the movie Daylight sold for $214,200.00.
Dwayne Johnson, aka The Rock, is another fan of the brand. His high–octane performances have led to his amazing transformation from wrestler to Hollywood superstar. Given his larger than life stature, he requires something outstanding that can match his presence; thus, it is unsurprising that he often opts for a Panerai, known for its colossal sizes.
His timepiece of choice is said to be the PAM01312. This 44mm watch features a polished bezel and black dial with luminous Arabic numerals and hour markers. The dial additionally includes a date display at 3‘o clock and small seconds at 9 o‘clock. Finally, the watch is completed with a classic black alligator strap.
In 2015, Panerai debuted a revolutionary new case material, Carbotech, with the Panerai Luminor Submersible 1950 CarboTech 3 Days Automatic PAM 616. This composite material, based on carbon fiber, was the first of its kind to be used in watchmaking and was exclusively owned by Panerai. The innovation of Carbotech marked a revolutionary milestone in the world of watchmaking.
Panerai achieves a level of superior durability, strength and lightness in their Submersible Carbotech watch by using a high-end polymer called PEEK (Polyether Ether Keto). This material is created by compressing thin sheets of carbon at a controlled temperature and under high pressure to bind composite material together, forming plates called “Carbotech.”
The distinct look and texture of Panerai’s black Carbotech material is not only hard and lightweight but can also be machined precisely. The case back for water-resistance is the only exception, made of metal. The cut Carbotech reveals an eye-catching grain that resembles Damascus metal’s “wood grain”.
In the case of the PAM960, the case, bezel and crown protectors are all made from this material, making it virtually indestructible and utterly resistant to corrosion. The Carbotech serves up unparalleled lightness and durability, making it a great choice for modern diver’s watches. On top of that, its stylish and functional design looks amazing both in and out of the water. It’s no wonder the Panerai Submersible Carbotech has become a top choice for watch enthusiasts everywhere.
The Panerai Luminor Marina Watch is a classic timepiece that is both elegant and rugged. Not only is the design functional, it’s also timeless and eye-catching. Whether you’re looking for an everyday statement piece or a sophisticated timepiece for ultra-important occasions, the Panerai Luminor Marina will never let you down.
