Undoubtedly for all Panerai admirers, it is the Luminor case that in recent years comes to mind first when the brand is mentioned. Perhaps for this very reason, the brand uses it for its sub-series of typical diving watches, the Submersible – in the case of these timepieces, the case is upgraded with a rotating bezel, so that the use of the models underwater is much more functional. The series was first introduced in 1998, and this particular model was launched in 2014 and very quickly became one of the rarest and most sought-after models of the brand. And of course, the fact that due to the left-positioned crown, the date window is also on the left, and the seconds register is on the right – meaning the dial is a mirror image of the brand's mass-produced models.
The model is different from most Panerai and the differences are visible to the naked eye – first, of course, is the fact that the crown is located on the left side of the case, and second is the guilloché on the dial, in this case, the so-called “Clous de Paris” or also called “Hobnail pattern” guilloché in the form of many small pyramids – I can assure you that the photos cannot fully convey its presence and it looks truly impressive in person. A small deviation from the topic, but this particular series is Sylvester Stallone's favorite (and he knows his Panerai) – it is the Submersible model that can be seen on his wrist in all of his roles over the last 20-something years. In the last 6-7 years, Panerai has begun to exploit this success and started introducing all sorts of variations of the case to the market – with a larger case, bronze, titanium, DLC, greater water resistance, etc., but undoubtedly this particular model remains the most attractive of the Submersible series - first because of its size and second because it is made of titanium. All of this makes this timepiece sought-after and desired by the brand's collectors, as well as by watch enthusiasts in general, and the fact that it was made for only one year and in a limited series of just 1000 pieces only confirms this! The rarity of the model is also confirmed by the fact that at the time of publishing this listing, on the largest platform for watch sales, there are only 3 active listings for such a timepiece!!!
Among collectors and enthusiasts, Panerai is known for the fact that most of their timepieces look good with a large number of different straps and bracelets. Not all watches can boast this, as they only pair well with a limited number of color options. This Panerai is suitable for both the rubber and leather strap, which are included in the set, as well as for the various velcro options, and let's not even start on the topic of what variations of color solutions, origin, and composition of leathers are offered on the market for this brand. By changing the straps, you can give the watch a completely different look, while still adhering to the traditional one for the brand and model - from black to yellow and all possible colors of the palette, and changing bracelets and straps is easy, with the help of simple screwdrivers.
The masculine, tool-watch nature of this timepiece is very well complemented by its dial, which is different from the usual for Panerai models – unlike other models, here the hour markers are round, applied, and with metal rings. The dial displays the time, while an additional sub-dial at '3 o'clock' is designated for the running seconds, and the indicator at '9 o'clock' shows the date.
The luminescence of the watch is remarkable - the indices and hands are coated with SuperLuminova, which contrasts very well with the dial. In the dark, the illumination provided by the luminescent coating complements the color and shape of the watch case, which makes reading the time very easy and effortless.
Above the dial sits a thick 3.5 mm slightly curved crystal with an anti-reflective coating, the case is water-resistant to 300 m - typical for a serious diver's watch. Of course, as befits a true Panerai, this model also features the brand's signature protected crown, which is also very easy to use. It can be wound even when it is not released, and when it is released, you can set the time by pulling it out.
Inside the watch works the brand's automatic in-house movement, Calibre P.9000, which deserves a separate presentation, but I will allow myself to be limited to just listing its characteristics: 28 jewels, Monometallic Glucydur® balance, 28,800 vibrations, Incabloc® anti-shock, two barrels, 72-hour power reserve, Côtes de Genève, blued screws, and brand engravings on the rotor...
