Panerai watches had gained enough credibility by the turn of the twentieth century to win the military’s confidence. As a result, they became the top partner of the Royal Italian Navy, Regia Marina, by supplying a variety of mechanical devices and navigational equipment. The relationship between the Italian military and the organization persisted until World War II.
Panerai’s history as a military watchmaker dates back to the Second World War. Panerai watches and equipment were used by Italian armored special forces in combat. The Italian army was able to overpower the competing fighters thanks to the instruments given by Panerai. Panerai watches were very popular at the time, and here are five Panerai watches that have a long-lasting quality that will probably fit with the armies during the mentioned era.
1. Luminor Chronograph Yachts Challenge
The Luminor Chronograph Yachts Challenge ref PAM00764 is another illustration of Panerai watches that are common because of their resemblance to the ocean. This wristwatch, which was launched in 2019, has a flyback chronograph encapsulated in a traditional and antique style. The PAM00764 model has a mostly black titanium shell. It has light blue highlights that give it an outdoorsy appearance to split up the routine. There’s even a tachymeter scale on the internal flange. Since the watch is designed for seafaring purposes, the level is measured in knots rather than km/h or mph. Besides that, since the pushers are on the side, the entire dial is clear to comprehend and operate.
2. Mare Nostrum Acciaio Special Edition
If you’re a lover of Panerai timepieces for quite a while, you’ve likely apprehended the Mare Nostrum retro style. In reality, it was the brand’s first chronograph, released in 1943. Another interesting fact is that it was made for the Italian Navy. It was then revived in 1993 before reappearing in 2017 with some improvements.
The new version of the Mare Nostrum ref PAM00716 is 42mm in diameter, the same as 1993 original, and the parallels don’t end there. In particular, the tachymeter scale and circular chronograph pushers on the bezel are identical. Its style would also appeal to vintage enthusiasts, as a faux patina can be seen on the hands and indices. It is driven by the OP XXXIII movement on the inside, and the Dubois-Depraz chronograph framework relies on the ETA 3801-2 movement. It is COSC-certified, despite not having the same battery capacity as the other Panerai watches.
3. Radiomir California
The Panerai Radiomir California 47 mm ref PAM00931, unlike the other Panerai watches, has an unpretentious look. Because of its color scheme, it can also be compared to retro army-styled vintage pieces. The California dial is the first thing you’ll remember concerning this piece. This suggests that the lower half has Arabic numerals and the upper half has Roman numerals for hour markers. Furthermore, a “tropical” brown dial with a worn-out look is placed against hour markers that are ideal for the retro enthusiast.
The hand-wound caliber P.3000 movement is housed within the AISI 316L stainless steel frame. This movement, like the others used in Panerai products, was developed in-house. It has a 21,600 vph frequency and will fuel the watch for 72 hours. It has an Incabloc anti-shock system that ensures it remains reliable when dropped. This watch is accessorizing with an oiled brown Tuscan leather strap, and its patina and road-worn effects will make it look like a watch from 1950 to 60s.
4. Radiomir GMT
Travelers can enjoy the Panerai Radiomir GMT ref PAM01078, which is not only sleek but also functional for a variety of timing purposes. This model, as a member of the Radiomir series, represents the reliability and versatility of the combatant diver’s tools operated by the Italian Navy. It has the brand’s distinctive satiné Soleil craftsmanship on the dial which means it emits a variety of blue hues to reflect the sea. The outer section is dim and similar to black, and as it gets closer to the middle, the color livens. The 24-hour tracker, whereas, is conveniently positioned beside 9 o’clock, and the date window on the other side is readable and visible.
The Radiomir GMT has a rust-resistant and hypoallergenic AISI 316L stainless steel case to shield it from the elements. Aside from that, this means that your beautiful watch does not get scratched when you are on holiday. Finally, this watch comes with beige stitching on the navy blue alligator band that suits the hour indicators and fits in. This GMT watch will make every fashionista confident to carry it.
5. Luminor Marina
The Panerai Luminor Marina Blue Dial 44 mm ref PAM01313 is an instantly familiar model, and it is so well-known that when people think of Panerai watches, this is the first product that comes to mind. This is the first thing you can search for if you’re a novice to the brand and want something sturdy and rugged. The big 44 mm diameter of this piece is among the distinguishing features. Some consider this brand to be the originator of the oversized watch style. And, because of its larger dimensions, it has a higher valuation. The dial is made of blue satin Soleil, which lends it a gleaming, velvety appearance. The bezel, on the other hand, has a metallic finish that corresponds with the dial.
Also, it doesn’t waste money on the process, since it employs the Calibre P.9010, an in-house automatic movement. When completely wound, this watch will last up to 72 hours, thanks to this caliber with 31 jewels in total and beats at a pace of 28,800 vph. It is a watch that will be remembered for a long time. It is suitable for sports because of its brushed steel material and 300-meter waterproofness quality. Its dark blue alligator strap and sleek dial, on the other side, make it appropriate for important events.
In A Nutshell
These designs were influenced by the timepieces Panerai designed during WWII. These quickly became highly collectible after their publication. Panerai watches are among the most successful in the current society. Panerai Luminor and Panerai Radiomir models are popular in watch forums and websites.
Disclaimer: This information has been collected through secondary research and TJM Media Pvt Ltd. is not responsible for any errors in the same.
