Panerai’s two newest watches – The Submersible Marina Militar (PAM01697) and the Submersible Marina Militare Carbotech (PAM01698) – are inspired by Aviazione Navale, the Italian Navy’s aviation branch, which supports the Italian Naval fleet with aircraft that extends its reach and capabilities in difficult environments.
From left, the Panerai PAM01697 and the PAM01698 are inspired by Aviazione Navale, the Italian Navy’s aviation branch
Panerai
Both timepieces are powered by the P.900 caliber automatic movement, integrating expansive functions with streamlined proportions. The movement measures 28mm with a thickness of 4.2mm. The movement boasts a three-day power reserve achievable through a bidirectional oscillating weight stored in a single barrel. Its balance wheel, oscillating at a frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour, is fixed in position by a balance cock. The caliber is equipped with a stop-second function that enables precise time setting.
The main difference between the two watches is the choice of material for the cases. The 44mm case for the PAM01697 is constructed from brushed 316LVM – 1.4441 stainless steel. The unidirectional rotating bezel is paired with a matte green ceramic disk.
The Panerai Submersible Marina Militar (PAM01697)
PaneraiThe case for the 44mm PAM01698 is made of Carbotech, a Panerai proprietary material crafted from carbon fibers that the brand says is both lightweight and robust. The manufacturing process of Carbotech. It involves compressing carbon fiber sheets at a precise temperature and high pressure along with PEEK (Polyether Ether Ketone), a polymer that reinforces the composite, enhancing its strength and longevity. “The resultant Carbotech plates boast superior mechanical properties and performance in terms of strength-to-weight ratio,” Panerai said in a statement. The watchmaker adds that this allows for a comfortable ergonomic fit while being resistant to tough wear conditions.
The material is “notably lighter than titanium and ceramic,” Panerao said. “Carbotech is designed to offer substantial resistance to external forces and corrosion.” Its uneven matte black surface, which varies according to the cutting of the material, results in a slightly different appearance for each watch.
Tha Panerai Submersible Marina Militare Carbotech (PAM01698)
PaneraiBoth timepieces feature green-grained matte dials with a black gradient finish inspired by Aviazione Navale aircrew flight gear and helmets, as well as the Marina Militare signature at 6 o’clock. Gray Super-LumiNova, taking after the colors of Aviazione Navale aircraft, enhances legibility in low-light conditions, while the small seconds counter’s design resembles a radar display, with an engraving of the historical Aviazione Navale aircraft’s anchor. The dials’ applied indexes are wider by 20% with an expanded Super-LumiNova surface.
The casebacks are engraved with the Aviazione Navale wings emblem, a first for in Panerai watches. Designed for deep-sea exploration, the watches are water resistant up to 30 bar (approximately 300 meters). As with all Panerai watches, these timepieces are tested to more than 25% of their stated water resistance. The two Submersible watches are matched with green canvas straps with distinctive T/T stitching, inspired by the Aviazione Navale military uniforms. They are both paired with a second black rubber strap.
The casebacks of the Panerai PAM01697 and PAM01698 (pictured) are engraved with the Aviazione Navale wings emblem
Panerai
The new timepieces are in keeping with Panerai’s association with Marina Militare (the Italian Navy). An association that began in the early 20th century and continues more than 100 years later. Initially the company founded in Florence, was tasked with designing precision instruments for the Italian Navy’s missions. To do this, Panerai pioneered technical solutions that enhanced military operations in extreme conditions and environments.
This partnership extended beyond watches, encompassing innovations such as technical equipment and landing systems for aircraft carriers and helicopters capable ships. In 1935, Panerai developed the Ref. 2533 prototype, which resulted in a timepiece that could withstand the rigors of underwater missions.
Panerai says it continues to honor this legacy through timepieces that combine robust engineering with contemporary functionality.
This article was originally published on forbes.com.
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