Launched as a Florence-based workshop and watchmaking school in 1860, Panerai once supplied the Italian Navy specialist diving corps with high-precision instruments. It has remained synonymous with superior underwater performance ever since (which isn’t to mention the stellar reputation on land). Now owned by Richemont Group, the luxury watchmaker operates out of Switzerland and continues to draw from the best of Italian design and Swiss craftsmanship. Absolute submersion is the name of its game and it’s given way to unparalleled legibility and luminosity, along with a signature case aesthetic that’s occasionally imitated but never matched.
Bolstered by the client-focused philosophy, Panerai has just released a new Submersible QuarantaQuattro so as to leave no customer behind. It comes on the heels of 47mm and 42mm collections and strikes a middle ground between its predecessors, with a versatile case size of 44mm. Equal parts functional and fashionable, it’s a perfect instrument for everyday use—including athletic and diving activities—but no less formidable as stylish wristwear. The unique display and case design are a genuine sight to behold, but you probably knew that as soon as you saw the name “Panerai.”
Straddling multiple models and price points, the new Submersible QuarantaQuattro line runs on an automatic mechanical P.900 calibre movement with a 3-day power reserve. Mainstay features include a seconds sub-dial at 9 o’clock, modified date window, uni-directional rotating bezel, and metallic appliques filled with white Super-LumiNova. Panerai clearly took the diving theme to heart when crafting their latest stunners, hence a prevailing emphasis on maximum legibility. The collection is further characterised by the watchmaker’s eco-conscious commitments, with each adjoining strap being composed of partially recycled materials.
Here’s a closer look at three key models:
Submersible QuarantaQuattro Carbotech Blu Abisso (PAM1232)
This crown jewel is forged from proprietary carbotech and ridiculously lightweight as a result. Used in the respective worlds of aeronautics, motorsports, and biomedicine, the unique material is 14% lighter than titanium and 36% lighter than steel. Whilst practically weightless on the wrist, the watch is still highly resistant to corrosion and scratches and also impressively strong. Bring in the signature case design, eye-catching Blu Abisso dial, and dive-friendly features and you’re looking at a bona fide masterpiece.
Submersible QuarantaQuattro (PAM1229)
A symphony of sleek contrast, this versatile watch surrounds its minimalist black dial in premium steel. It comes with a recycled strap of either black rubber or dark gray fabric, both of which drive home a dramatic visual impression. Thanks to luminous treatment, the hour markers, bezel dots, and other details burst to life under the darkest of conditions. No matter what the environment, prepare to turn heads.
Submersible QuarantaQuattro Bianco (PAM1226)
We’re definitely picking up on the monochromatic vibe that this 44m dive watch is throwing down. Peer outward from its impeccably white dial to find a brushed steel anti-clockwise rotating bezel with graduated scale, followed by a brushed steel case of a similar hue. Corondum-based sapphire crystal delivers ample protection whilst P.900 calibre ensures utmost accuracy. Choose between a recycled rubber strap or bracelet in eight different colour options.
Image: Panerai
Joining its 42mm and 47mm brethren, Panerai’s new 44mm Submersible QuarantaQuattro offers a versatile case size for wearers from every walk of life. On land or underwater, these pieces strike a unique visual chord with the top-notch performance and striking legibility to match. They continue a long-running heritage of singular design, which combines the best elements from the respective worlds of Italian and Swiss craftsmanship. Those looking for absolute distinction need look no further than this epic series from one of the most iconic watchmakers in existence.
Visit Panerai’s website or a participating retailer and submerse yourself accordingly.