Brief Brand History for Panerai Panerai is the most famous Italian watch company. But keep in mind, Panerai is now produced in Switzerland, not Italy. Originally founded in Florence in the 1860’s, this “watch workshop” was commissioned by the Italian Navy to produce a watch that could be easily read underwater. This early prototype was actually fitted with Rolex parts. Currently Panerai produces a very limited number of pieces and therefore keeps demand high.
product line overview Panerai watches are usually 40mm or 44mm. Most all models are available both on straps and on bracelets. The simplest version is called the “Marina”. In addition there are “Power Reserve” and “GMT” complications. Panerai also makes a “Chronograph” and a diving watch called the “Submersible”. Each piece is numbered on the back out of how many produced that year. Panerai has a substantial market share because of the large number of Panerai Collectors out there. Some are even “cult-like” in their appreciation for this massive watch.
essential watches "market assessment" Panerai is one of those brands that has virtually no discount available. You are lucky to receive 5 – 10% at most. Right now Panerai is considered very cool. Their oversized cases fall in line with the current trend in watches…. bigger is better. Celebrities wear them, new age businessmen wear them, and some very modern women even wear them. The market for used is also very strong for obvious reasons.
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Giovanni Panerai and his family had no idea, back in 1860, just how significant the Panerai watch company will become a century and a half later. Panerai started his business by producing measurement and precision systems for the Italian Navy, which gradually lead to an affinity for watch making and other precision instruments. The company continued to develop in parallel with the Italian Navy, and the commandos were equipped with wristwatches produced by Panerai. In 1930, Panerai watches were well known in the Italian military and the company had an exclusive contract with the Navy to produce their watches and aiming sites for various types of weaponry. The ruggedness and durability of the Panerai watches is still symbolic today, and the company only started producing wristwatches for the general public in 1993.
Panerai watch features
Limited edition collections and the company’s impressive history are some of the strongest arguments for purchasing a Panerai watch. Although the military history suggests power and precision, Panerai watches are finely tuned mechanisms encased in elegant and stylish cases. The company developed two important timepieces that made history: the Luminor (using tritium) and Radiomir (using radium). The platinum Luminor uses the original Rolex movement and is one of the most desirable wristwatches you can acquire. Panerai watches are usually 40mm or 44mm and their designs are elegant and sober. Models are available on bracelets and straps, and these large men’s watches usually come in brown and dark colors. While the Marina is the basic watch model, you can also get more sophisticated designs such as the GMT or the Power Reserve. The Submersible is an excellent diver’s watch which features many of the technological advancements developed by Panerai for the Italian Navy.
Panerai Luminor Marina – although this is one of the most common Panerai watches, the Luminor Marina offers an excellent combination of features, such as the sub-dial seconds hand or the chronometer. The submersible version of this Panerai watch is available and features such as the unidirectional bezel should be mentioned. Panerai Luminor Marina comes in right and left hand versions and has a serious and sturdy visual aspect, dominated by the steel case and band.
Luminor GMT – this watch also serves as a compass, by offering a 24-hour dial. This Panerai watch is equipped with a Panerai OP VIII Calibre movement and a 42-hour power reserve. You will notice the 3 o’clock date display and the elegant lines of the design. This shock absorbing watch is also submersible – it can go to a depth of 300 meters.
Radiomir 8 Days – elegant and precise, the Radiomir 8 Days model comes with a hand-wound mechanical movement and a power reserve of 8 days. The sapphire crystal back allows you to check the power reserve at any time and the movement has 33 jewels and a balance spring that is precisely adjusted with the assistance of a micrometer regulator.
