Panerai Watches

Everyone knows that Panerai watches are, at their core, a symbol of passion, optimism, and drive. These premium-quality timepieces are designed to meet the demands of professional divers, including those working in extreme depths, but are also versatile enough to be worn daily. These timepieces are stylish and dependable, with many watch collectors falling in love with the brand for its attention to detail.

Known for their unique and oversized cases, the brands collection are some of the most recognizable timepieces in the world. The Italian watchmaker has been producing high-quality watches since 1860, and today their timepieces are highly sought-after by collectors and watch enthusiasts alike. With Bob's Watches, you are sure to find used Panerai watches at the best prices.

Bob's Watches is the leading online marketplace for pre-owned Panerai watches. We offer a wide selection of timepieces at unbeatable prices as well as other luxury watch brands.

Founded by Giovanni Panerai, Officine Panerai opened in 1860 in Florence, Italy. They not only sell watches, but also serve as a watchmaking school. They began designing luxury watches after 130 years when they started to produce small batches for civilians in 1993. The brand became a supplier to the Royal Italian Navy and produced their first dive watch, the legendary Panerai Radiomir, in 1935.

The brand is also known for their high-quality craftsmanship and use of premium materials. The cases are typically made of stainless steel, titanium, or precious metals, and are often coated with a layer of PVD (Physical Vapor Deposition) to increase resistance to scratches and wear. The straps and bracelets are made from leather, rubber, or metal, and are designed to be comfortable and durable. The movements used are also of the highest quality, with many of the models featuring in-house movements that are designed and manufactured by the company.

The Radiomir and Luminor collections are the most iconic and well-known timepiece collections from Panerai. These were followed by the Submersible, made with a touch of retro details with modern design that makes it more appealing to the younger generations, the Mare Nostrum, Egiziano, and the Panerai Classic Yachting.

These watches stick to their original DNA: functional and durable.

They also incorporate their own developed materials including the Carboech and Fibratech as well as special alloys like Goldtech and Platinumtech.

Today, there is a focus on sustainability as they want to become more environmentally-friendly. They are beginning to produce several watches that are mostly made from recycled materials.

Over time, watch enthusiasts and collectors have named Officine Panerai as one of their top brands. Not only because of its iconic cushion-shaped cases, but also because of its interesting history and the functionality of their watches. From second time-zone and chronographs to tourbillon and minute repeaters, there is a option that can suit your needs.

With so many models available, it's easy to get confused. However, we’ve created this guide to help you know more about each model to make an informed decision.

Radiomir

When thinking about the Panerai watch, the first thing that comes into people's minds is the Radiomir. It is their most iconic watch and it was originally created for the Royal Italian Navy. It is a robust diving watch with a bold crown and distinct shape that is unique to Panerai. The first Radiomir was created in 1938 and it was water-resistant up to 100 meters. The production was made back in 1916 when Panerai filed a patent for the radium-based luminous powder Radiomir. It was used to enhance the dials and hands of the watches making them readable even in the dark or underwater. The powder used has later become the name of the collection bringing to life the companies first military watches.

One of the most appreciated and emblematic models from Panerai is the Radiomir. It represents a perfect blend of Italian design with Swiss solidity and precision. Based on the prototype made for the frogmen of the Royal Italian Navy in 1936, the Radiomir is produced in a limited edition that is both unique and sophisticated. It belongs to the Luminor family and gets its name from the original substance used for dial illumination (radium).

Like the first Radiomir timepieces, this model combines two highly sensitive substances: an ingenious combination of metals and an exquisite alloy, which allows it to remain perfectly balanced over time. In addition, the Panerai Radiomir models have a rather large cushion-shaped case, a winding crown without crown guards, and a pair of large hands at the center of the dial pointing to oversized hour markers.

Originally designed for divers, they are handmade and still feature the distinctive radium-based luminous powder that gives them their unique glow in the dark. The patented lugs distinguish this series from all of the other models, and it’s very common to find a model that is both comfortable and luxurious. A symbol of power, money, and success, the distinctive shape and crown of these revamped models garner the attention of many watch admirers from all around the world.

Within this line-up, the brand has produced two main collections: the Radiomir and the Radiomir 1940. Both models were created with design in mind.

The Radiomir models feature flared crowns and wire lugs, while the Radiomir 1940 watches have thicker lugs and conical crowns. They are available in a range of sizes and dial combinations. However, they all embrace the same classic styling and heritage. Each timepiece in the collection has a timeless design, yet offers modern technology and performance.

Luminor

The next Panerai watch on the list is the evolution of Radiomir which is the Luminor. The Luminor was created in 1950 and it featured a new design with the addition of the now-iconic crown-protecting device. The device is used to increase the water resistance of the watch up to 200 meters. Although carrying the cushion-shaped case and simple dial, the Luminor collection carries additional protection against impacts and jolts which keeps the crown in place. It is truly a perfect watch for any occasion whether you are going for a suit or a more casual look. The usual find for Panerai Luminor watches is the stainless steel version, but you can also find gold, titanium, and ceramic versions perfect for collectors that are looking for a more diversified collection. Another thing about the Luminor is that it features additional complications and movements such as a power reserve, GMT, and even a tourbillon.

Following the evolution of the Radiomir family was the Luminor. First manufactured in the 1950s, its unique domed display protects the crown, thus increasing the water resistance to 200 meters (originally 100 meters), making it Panerai's most water-resistant watch. While it carries a cushion-shaped case and simple dial, the Luminor collection exudes boldness and panache with its padded leather calfskin strap and dials that sport luminescent hour markers.

The design of the Luminor reflects its roots and modernity. Its case is characterized by a curved shape and an iconic crown guard that looks like a stylized submarine conning tower. As the key feature of this line-up, these lever-operated crown guards secure the crown to the case, making these watches 100% water resistant.

The Panerai Luminor watch is a feature-rich, and high-quality timepice that any true collector could only dream of owning. As with most other collections, there is an emphasis on practicality and performance, which is what the Panerai Luminor collection reflects. The good news is that it comes in a variety of metal selections such as gold, titanium, and stainless steel. The boldface and clean hands come together to make a stylish timepiece with added features including a power reserve and tourbillon. Its current range comprises models in case diameters that range between 40 to 47 millimeters.

The watches are largely time-only models, with a simple, rugged design meant to be paired with any outfit. Panerai also offers more complicated versions and movements, including GMT, chronograph, and other options which may appeal more to enthusiasts. Ubiquitous in its appeal, it perpetuates quality and reliability in accurate timekeeping. Its classic design and embellished manufacturing render timeless appeal for the discerning watch enthusiast.

The Luminor Due

If you are a fan of classic dress watches but looking for a more elegant option than the Luminor collection, then Luminor Due is the right one for you. The Luminor Due was introduced in 2016 and it is the first Panerai watch that is mostly made of aluminum. The case is thinner and the watch as a whole is lighter making it perfect for those with smaller wrists. You can find the Luminor Due in several cases and dial colors along with different strap options catering to any occasion or style.

In 2016, Panerai underwent a notable evolution with the new watch line, Luminor Due. Not only were they reduced in thickness (40% thinner), but they also added a feminine touch to their masculine predecessors. More elegant and sleek, it still kept the characteristics of the original 1950 model. However, the thinner case contributes more to its elegance and refined design.

Many watchmakers were increasing their average case size, but Panerai opted for something smaller, more refined, and a classically stylish collection. It is a smaller, thinner, fancier version of the Luminor line. Although it still features the familiar design and crown guard locking mechanism, it has a different bezel design and a unique dial.

What draws the eye is the watches’ newfound thinness. For instance, the PAM00943 sports a 45mm case with a 10.8mm thickness. Other models like the Luminor Due 28 and 42mm series have a thickness of 11.2mm and 10.8mm respectively. With a trimmed case and a slimmer profile, the watch is easier to slip under the cuff of your dress. Additionally, the beautiful design and proportions make this piece perfect for any occasion.

The Luminor Due series is the first Panerai watch with a case made almost entirely of aluminum. It’s thinner and lighter than the Luminor collection, making it perfect for small wrists. The Luminor Due features classic Panerai features such as the sandwich dial and hand-wound P.9000 caliber with a 60-hour power reserve, but in a more delicate package. It comes in several cases and dials colors on a range of straps to suit any taste or style.

Submersible

Released back in 2011, the Submersible is a more modern take on classic Panerai dive watches. The collection is known for its bold and chunky design with a 42mm or 44mm case size. The cases are made of either stainless steel or carbon and they come with a unidirectional bezel, luminous hands and markers, and a water resistance of up to 300 meters. The Submersible is perfect for those who are looking for a robust and stylish dive watch that can be used both in the water and on land. Some of the most popular Submersible watches are the Panerai Submersible Bronzo, CarboTech, and BMG-Tech.

In 2019, Panerai showed off a slew of new Submersibles that started within the Luminor collection. While the Radiomir and the Luminor may be considered dive watches, nothing can compare to the distinct features of the Submersible models. It boasts a crystal clear face and a rotatable bezel associated with the modern divers of today.

The Panerai Submersible possesses unique elements that make it different. For example, the dial is printed in luminous paint, the hands are skeletonized, and is fully submersible at 300 meters. The watch line is also shockproof, antimagnetic, and resistant to corrosion.

Furthermore, the Submersible is made with a case of titanium and stainless steel, which are both solid materials that can handle the intense pressure of being underwater. The watches also have a strap made out of rubber, which helps keep moisture out of the timepiece while you wear it.

With its clean, classic design, numerous features, and color variations, the Submersible collection is a must-have for sensible watch collectors. No matter if you get a PAM00024 or a PAM00683, the Submersible series represents everything good about the Panerai brand, with a competitive price that doesn’t compromise on style.

The exclusivity of the brand is why Panerai watches are so special and coveted. Not everyone can own a Panerai watch as the production is very limited. Especially because the brand started creating timepieces only for combat forces and slowly transitioned to the public.

The originality is another aspect that makes Panerai watches stand out. The brand has always been creative in its designs and they always come up with new and innovative ways to improve their watches.

If you're interested in buying a luxury watch, getting your head (and your eyes) around the Officine Panerai collection can be a challenge. The good news is that there is a model for every lifestyle and taste. Once you determine which model speaks to you, it’s relatively easy to narrow down your decision based on features that suit your preferences. We hope that this guide will assist you in narrowing down your requirements, so you’ll have a better idea of the best Panerai watch to buy.

Lastly, Panerai watches are special because of their quality and their signature features. The watches are made with high-quality materials and they are built to last. They also come with unique features such as the crown-protecting device and the Panerai Luminor Marina which makes them stand out from other watch brands.

Why are Panerai watches expensive?

The main reason why Panerai watches are expensive is because of the brand’s exclusivity. Panerai watches were not available to the public market until the 1990s making older models of Panerai watches very rare and valuable, therefore attracting many collectors and watch enthusiasts.

Is a Panerai watch better than a Rolex?

Both Panerai and Rolex offer quality craftsmanship. One is not better than the other. It all depends on the individual's preferences. For those who are more invested in military watches, Panerai might be a better option. But for those who enjoy a more luxurious feel, Rolex would definitely offer that. Choosing between the two brands should come down to what the individual is looking for in a watch as their prices sit in almost the same range.

How can I tell if a Panerai watch is real?

Original or authentic Panerai watches feature a clear logo, caliber engravings, and other unique identifier stamps on their movement. A Panerai watch has a serial number encrypted as well as a water resistance indication. Another thing to look at is the lugs. An authentic piece has a slightly angled lug while fake piece’s lugs are usually flat.

How much does a Panerai watch cost?

Second hand or pre-owned luxury watches prices are highly affected by different factors. The model, year it was made, how well it was maintained and its rarity will all contribute to how much a Panerai watch would cost. Currently, in 2023, you can find Panerai watches in Bob’s Watches collection that range from $4,395 to $12,995.

Is Panerai a good investment?

Not as an investment but as a timepiece, Panerai is a good watch to have. Watches are often not a good investment unless you are holding a vintage or rare piece. The value of a Panerai watch will not likely go up in the future but it can maintain its value if you take care of it.

How often should I service my Panerai watch?

You should service your Panerai watch every four to five years and maintenance every two to three years. Depending on the condition of your Panerai watch, it might just need a routine checkup or a complete service which will require the watch to be disassembled, cleaned, and lubricated.