By Nancy Olson
This year’s new Luna Rossa watches, debuting at Watches and Wonders 2024, center on Panerai’s seafaring pairing with the America’s Cup, which dates to 2017 when it became an official partner. In 2019, another important affiliation commenced when Panerai became the Official Sponsor of the Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli team at the 36th America’s Cup. The 37th America’s Cup will be held later this year, with Panerai once again joining forces with the Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli team as Official Sponsor.
This international competition has been a major catalyst for innovative watches since the collaboration began, and it has provided fresh opportunities for Panerai to create some exceptional timepieces. Here are a few upcoming models to help set your sails.
Panerai Submersible QuarantaQuattro Luna Rossa Ti-Ceramitech
These just-revealed watches comprise a new material that was seven years in the making at Panerai’s own Laboratorio di Idee, according to Panerai CEO Jean-Marc Pontroué. The 44mm cases of the new PAM01466 and PAM01543 are crafted from Ti-Ceramitech, which is an all-new material that showcases a distinctive shade of blue thanks to the complex process used in its creation. It is extremely hard and can withstand high pressure and thermal stress, and it is also 44% lighter than steel—a clear plus for a watch.
The PAM01466 is fitted with a blue sun-brushed dial, while the PAM01543 has a matte-white grained dial. Both are decorated with the words “Luna Rosa” below center and feature a small red seconds hand; the date window is at 3 o’clock.
The timepieces are powered by the well-respected automatic P.900 movement with an Incabloc anti-shock device. Functions include hours, minutes, small seconds, date, and calculation of immersion time, and the power reserve is three days. They come with two strap options: a bi-material strap with a red stripe that says “Luna Rossa” in white against a blue background and an all-blue rubber strap. The PAM01543, available in July, is a Panerai boutique exclusive. Both watches retail for $16,600.
Additional Panerai Submersible Luna Rossa Watches
Tourbillon fans will be thrilled to learn about the Submersible Tourbillon GMT Luna Rossa Xperience Edition PAM01405. This is the first 45mm Submersible in Carbotech™ featuring a tourbillon; it is driven by the manually wound P.2015/T caliber with a power reserve of four days. So, what makes it an “Experience Edition?” Watch owners are invited to partake in a behind-the-scenes adventure at this year’s America’s Cup, including engagement with the Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli team. The 20-piece edition goes on sale in July, retailing for $176,500 (which includes the experience). More details coming soon on this watch. Stay tuned.