Panerai Launches Radiomir Revolution

By Isaac Wingold

Panerai is one brand that has a truly unique and loyal following. The faithful, or “Paneristi” as they call themselves, are the Italian watchmaker’s ultimate diehard fans who center their collections on the oversized, vintage dive-watch-inspired pieces. If the ‘risti have been following current watch news, they’d surely be excited by the brand’s latest announcements. With a plethora of additions made to the Luminor collection back in 2013, this year Panerai brings a strong focus back to the iconic Radiomir collection.

What are arguably the most newsworthy and interesting new unveilings from Panerai are the 45mm PAM 572 Radiomir 1940 3 Days Automatic in steel, and PAM573 (the rose gold version). Dubbed the “Radiomir 1940” collection, these pieces are exciting on a multitude of levels – not the least of which is the all-new automatic movement, the caliber P.4000. This new movement features an off-center oscillating weight that winds in both directions, thus improving power reserve. Naturally the timepieces also retain key vintage styling cues that have put the brand on the map, including the slightly textured dial, patina colored lumen, and oversized cushion case.

Additionally there are two new pieces from the Radiomir 1940 collection that will be produced in limited quantities. The PAM 558 Tourbillon GMT Oro Rosso is the brand’s newest haute horology creation that packs some serious horological firepower, in a way that is quintessentially Panerai. The PAM 587, or as it’s more commonly known as the Marina Militare 3 Days Acciaio, will certainly excite the Paneristi, as the 47mm watch harkens back to the brand’s earliest days when watches were supplied to the Italian frogmen.

But wait, it isn’t over yet! Panerai has also unveiled several “Unique Special Edition Novelties” in the Radiomir line, including the PAM 598. This 47mm 5N rose gold cased Radiomir features a GMT function, and a beautifully deep and complex sunburst blue dial. It houses the sophisticated in-house-made P.3001/10 movement with three days of power reserve. The caseback is transparent sapphire to allow viewing of the finely skeletonized movement – underscoring Panerai’s Italian design and Swiss technology.

Additionally, a special-edition set of two Luminor models (PAM 785) is being released. The set will include a 44mm Black Seal 8 Days Acciaio in a striking black DLC finish, and a Daylight 8 Days Acciaio. Both models included in the set are inspired by rare and highly coveted Pre-Vendome Panerai watches. Each of the new Radiomir watches holds the perfect balance of historical inspiration and horologically sophisticated workmanship. For those interested, view the video below on the Caliber P.4000.