Panerai Submersible Elux LAB-ID: Mechanical Electroluminescence

Panerai is presenting groundbreaking innovation with the Submersible Elux LAB-ID: LED panels that provide extraordinary luminosity, with the required energy being fully mechanically stored. The inspiration dates back to 1966 – the year when Panerai patented the LEDs called “Elux”. They were primarily used by the Italian Navy, where they were valued for their reliability. The electroluminescence in the Submersible Elux LAB-ID PAM01800 is the result of many years of research. The watch is available in a limited edition of 150 pieces in a 49 mm case made of Ti-Ceramitech.

Mechanical Luminescence

The extraordinary luminosity of the LED panels used to illuminate the displays is, of course, based on electronics. The special feature of this watch, however, is that the necessary electrical energy is stored in mechanical spring barrels. These drive a rotor, which, together with coils, magnets, and a stator, generates an electric current that is then distributed to the panels. Particularly impressive is the illumination of the moving parts such as the main hands and the bezel marker, which demonstrates the interdisciplinary expertise of Panerai’s Laboratorio di Idee. Moreover, because of the mechanical energy storage, new energy for the Power-Light function can be generated by simply winding the crown. There is a button on the left side of the case that activates the Power-Light function. A patented protection system prevents the button from being pressed unintentionally.

Case: Robust Ti-Ceramitech

The case of the Panerai Submersible Elux LAB-ID PAM01800 is made of Ti-Ceramitech, a material created through plasma electrolytic oxidation of titanium. This process, which Panerai patented after seven years of research and development, gives the watch its characteristic blue hue, reminiscent of the open sea. The case is 44 percent lighter than steel and ten times more fracture-resistant than conventional ceramics, making it particularly resistant to high pressure and thermal stresses. With a diameter of 49 mm and a water resistance of up to 50 bar (approximately 500 meters), the watch is designed for extreme conditions.

Dial with Luminous Panels

The dial of the Panerai Submersible Elux LAB-ID is based on the typical design of the diver’s watch line. However, LEDs are integrated into the hour markers. Additionally, the small seconds hand is illuminated. There is also a linear Power-Light reserve indicator, which is also illuminated. In addition to the Power-Light function, the watch also features green Super-LumiNova X2 on the hour markers and hour hand, as well as blue Super-LumiNova X1 around the minute hand and bezel dot.

Movement: Mechanical Precision and Electromechanical Innovation

Inside the Panerai Submersible Elux LAB-ID PAM01800 operates the mechanical automatic movement Caliber P.9010/EL. This movement consists of 363 components, including 55 jewels, a Glucydur balance wheel, and an Incabloc shock protection system. It offers a power reserve of three days and a runtime of the Power-Light function of 30 minutes. The watch has six barrels, four of which are responsible for the lighting and two for the time display. An innovative micro-generator, consisting of specially made coils, magnets, and a stator, converts mechanical energy into electricity. This mechanism enables the on-demand lighting of the watch by simply pressing the patented push-button protection system.

Strap: Functionality and Comfort

The watch comes with a blue rubber strap and a second strap made of a material mix. The rubber strap is 26/22 mm wide and features a trapezoidal pin buckle made of titanium, ensuring secure hold and comfort.

Price and Availability

The Panerai Submersible Elux LAB-ID PAM01800 is limited to 150 pieces, with 50 pieces being offered annually over three years. This exclusive watch is available through the dealer network as well as in Panerai’s own boutiques. The price is 108.000 euros.

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