When it comes to brands, every designer watch aficionado has their preferences. If you’re just starting your collection or looking to branch out, there’s one company that’s always worth exploring: Panerai. From Hollywood movie stars and sports icons to yourself, people dress to impress with Panerai watches on their wrist!
Where and When Was Panerai Founded?
Though the designs boast a modern look and amazing technological advancements, Panerai watches have a long history. Founded in 1860 by Giovanni Panerai, the earliest models were designed in Florence, Italy, at his workshop. The location doubled as a store and watchmaking school and, under the guidance of his grandson, Guido Panerai, expanded to become the official wristwatch supplier to the Royal Italian Navy.
Are Panerai Watches Swiss-Made?
When it comes to the world of luxury watches, it’s no secret that Swiss-made brands are the gold standard. For the first few decades, Panerai watches were produced exclusively in Italy. In 2001, Panerai opened its first international office in Neuchâtel, Switzerland, developing new movements and designs and solidifying its place in the Swiss-made watch world.
What Are Panerai Watch Enthusiasts Called?
When you buy a Panerai watch, you’re not just purchasing a luxury timepiece—you’re finding a community. Panerai enthusiasts refer to themselves as Paneristi, and with more than 30,000 members worldwide, the passion is never-ending. If you decide to join the Paneristi family, you’re welcome to connect with like-minded watch-lovers at the annual convention, a weekend-long event hosted in a different city each year.
What Are Panerai Watches Known For?
Panerai watches have an esteemed reputation around the globe. When asked, timepiece experts chalk up the glowing reviews to these distinct design details and brand values:
Oversized Cushion-Shaped Cases
If you’re ever not sure whether or not a timepiece is a Panerai, start by examining the case. Though small details vary from collection to collection, all Panerai watches feature oversized square cases with rounded corners (also called a cushion case).
This large type of case is designed to protect the inner workings of a watch and withstand any weather conditions. It has been a part of the brand’s signature style for over 100 years.
Innovative Roots in Italian Maritime History
As the Panerai family had already been supplying precision instruments to the Italian Royal Navy, transitioning into watch design was a natural step. In order to meet the strict military requirements for wristwatches, Panerai and Lieutenant Commander Carlo Ronconi worked together to create a radium-based powder meant to make dials brighter. In 1916, “Radiomir” was patented, marking the first of Panerai’s many innovative discoveries.
Patented Crown-Protecting Bridge
All women’s and men’s Panerai watches feature a patented crown protecting device. The small lever clamps the crown against the case to ensure superior water resistance and prevent any possible damage. This tiny watch part creates a watertight seal and can be opened for adjustments at any time.
Unique Dial Options
While the terms aren’t exactly the most sophisticated, it’s nearly impossible to shop for a Panerai watch without hearing people refer to the “sausage” or “sandwich” dials. Both terms refer to how luminous material is applied to the dial. One is not necessarily better than the other, but every collector has their preferences:
- Sandwich: utilize a unique layering technique where the luminescent bottom disc shines through the index cut-outs of a top disc
- Sausage: featuring painted hour markers protruding slightly above the dial, resulting in curvier numerals and thicker details
- Baton: rarely seen outside of vintage designs, characterized by recessed dots and markers at 3-, 6-, 9-, and 12-hour marks.
In-House and Third-Party Movements
Panerai uses a combination of in-house movements and “third-party” movements in an effort to control costs and keep its timeless designs affordable without sacrificing any quality. Historically, Panerai gets “third-party” movements from luxury brands like Rolex, building and modifying them to completion before they are placed in a design. When you come across a men’s Panerai watch, you can check the caliber’s name to identify which kind of movement it uses.
Interchangeable Panerai Watch Strap System
What’s better than loving your Panerai watch strap? Having the ability to easily switch it out whenever you please!
The Panerai Interchangeable Strap System, or the PSS, allows collectors to easily customize their timepiece with different straps and buckles. With the special tool provided at purchase, understanding the release mechanism and attaching different Panerai watch straps to suit any occasion is easier than you’d think.
The Many Materials Used in Panerai Watch Straps
The ability to change your Panerai watch strap offers unlimited looks. Fill your collection with different Panerai watch straps made from these high-quality and comfortable materials:
- Leather
- Calfskin
- Alligator
- Shell cordovan
- Suede
- Sailcloth
- Rubber
- Canvas
- Metal
- Elastic
- Nylon
The Most Popular Panerai Watch Collections
If you’re interested in investing in a Panerai watch of your very own, explore the existing collections to find your perfect fit:
The Panerai Radiomir Collection
The Radiomir collection is known for elegant details and vintage aesthetics, paying homage to the brand’s naval origins whenever possible. With a plain face, large cushion-shaped case, standard crown, and maximum readability, designs like the Radiomir Officine are an example of Panerai’s brilliance.
The Panerai Luminor Collection
The Luminor collection is a longtime favorite for Panerai watch enthusiasts since the ‘40s, featuring the brand’s signature crown lock, legible dial, heritage cushion case shapes, and patented tritium-based Luminor mixture. With different Panerai watch strap options to choose from, the Luminor Chrono never goes out of style.
The Panerai Luminor Due
While other brands, like Cartier, create watches specifically with women or men in mind, the majority of Panerai watches are treated as unisex. After enthusiasts asked for a women’s watch, Panerai created the Luminor Due in 2018 with more feminine features. With a smaller case size, slim profiles, and elegant color options, the models in this collection, such as the Luminor Due Goldtech Madreperla, offer the perfect balance of delicate design and statement style.
The Panerai Submersible Collection
Panerai launched a new category of wristwatches called “Submersibles” to distinguish its diver-specific designs from the more everyday models in 2019. If you’re searching for a robust build, sporty aesthetic, or a professional dive watch with a high depth rating (300 meters or more), the high-visibility dial and unmistakable silhouette of a Panerai Submersible may be for you.
The next time you’re searching for a thoughtful anniversary present for your watch-obsessed partner or considering treating yourself to a touch of luxury, take a closer look at Panerai watches. With so many durable and stylish models to choose from, as well as infinite Panerai watch straps available for complete customization, you’re bound to find a timepiece you love.
