Returned home from my visit at the SIHH in Geneve last friday. It was great to see that Panerai continue to use their DNA in the new collection.

Aside new models without the crown protecting device (PAM 514, 515) in 47 mm, following the introduction models from last year, also models in 42 mm were introduced (PAM 512, 513). Also the new Submersible models are noteable: another bronze watch (PAM 507) – with power reserve indicator, and a ceramic version (PAM 508), both in 47 mm, are really huge pieces and will surely get a lot of friends in the Panerai collectors world.

My personal highlight was the new “Regatta Chrono” (PAM 526) in a 47 mm Luminor case, which is powered with P.9100/R movement. As Panerai is strongly linked to the world of classic yachts, a watch with perfect functionality for sailing is in my opinion a great achievement. Congratulations!

The P.9100/R automatic movement has a diameter of 31 mm, it is 9.55 mm thick, 37 jewels and made up of 328 components. It has the flyback chrono function with vertical clutch and column wheel. It has a power reserve of  3 days. The small subdial at 3 o’clock shows a complete mini Panerai dial – a very nice detail. To put on this watch was a pleasure, with 47 mm it is really a huge impressive watch, which wears excellent with the rubber strap… Like!

Another chrono found my instant attention as well: the new Luminor 1950 3 Days Chrono Flyback in 44 mm (PAM 524). Its engine, the P.9100 movement, is the first automatic movement with chronograph functions developed by Officine Panerai and its produced entirely in its Manufacture in Neuchatel / Switzerland. The movement has a diameter of 31 mm with a height of 8.15 mm, also 37 jewels and made of 302 components. Two spring barrels give it a power reserve of 72 hours. The luminous material in patina color gives it a nicely vintage touch. This watch is, as the Regatta chrono (PAM 526) above, partially polished and brushed – very fine surface treatments, excellent!

Sorry for the crappy smartphone pictures… you can find much better photos, taken by Martin Wilmsen at the paneristi.com SIHH 2013 section.
[Volker Wiegmann]