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PANERAI X LUNA ROSSA
Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli, an Italian sailboat racing syndicate formed for the America’s Cup in the turn of the millennium. Panerai, a Swiss manufacturing watch brand formed in Italy in the ancient city of Florence, 1860. Together, the two greats joined forces to honour their shared values: high performance, technical innovation, and, of course, the Italian spirit.
The america’s cup
Journey back to the year 1851, when the New York Yacht Club’s ‘America’ won a certain regatta around the Isle of Wight off the English coast, leaving the 15-strong British fleet in its wake. Thus, centuries ago, the America’s Cup came to life.
Today, the Luna Rossa team is composed of 130 people of which 38 designers, 36 within the shore team and 8 sailors on the boat. The second the sailing team finish their training in the water, their colleagues await them on the land. New parts are prepared, older parts repaired, components meticulously studied. Materials are experimented with and implemented: various units concentrate on highly technical fields such as composite and carbon manufacturing, hydraulics, electronics, riggers, sailmakers, mechanical workshop, deck equipment and painting.
Meanwhile, a design team focuses on naval architecture, structural engineering, mechanical engineering, computer engineering and aero and hydrodynamic engineering. Studying various components, from the hulls to the sails, they strive to find new solutions that might aid the AC75 sailing boat, and thus Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli team’s, performance.
As for the sailing team itself, eight members of the team will take part in the America’s Cup: the helmsman, mainsail trimmer, foil trimmer, the coach and the grinders. Each member works closely with the designers, innovators, and engineers to increase the AC75 sailing boat’s performance.
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The birth of a partnership
Panerai’s first foray into the world of professional sailing began in 2017, when the Italian horology house became an official partner of the America’s Cup. Simultaneously, Panerai sponsored the Oracle Team USA and Softbank Team Japan. Two years later, in 2019, Panerai made the auspicious decision to become the Official Sponsor of Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli. At this moment, our story truly begins.
In 2021, at the 36th America’s Cup held in Hauraki Gulf of Auckland, Panerai cemented its ties with the Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli sailing team, agreeing to embark upon not simply a sponsorship, but a meaningful partnership. Each time the preparations for the sailing competition took place, Panerai faithfully produced a new collection – often pushing boundaries further, creating watches that told a tale of resilience, determination and advancement.
Max Sirena
The team’s skipper and director.
“The synergy with Panerai takes us on a shared journey in pushing the limits of performance, where precision, innovation and a relentless pursuit of excellence are at the heart of our endeavours.”
THE SUBMERSIBLE WATCHES ARE SURVIVAL INSTRUMENTS
TRUE TOOL WATCHES
Bold design, high-tech materials, strong water resistance, and a unidirectional rotating bezel unite these watches. Yet the collaborative Submersible Luna Rossa models go a step further with their unmistakable designs – think Luna Rossa nautical colour schemes, elevated legibility, often advanced materials, and strap options.
THE INFINITE PURSUIT OF INNOVATION
Take the Submersible GMT Luna Rossa Titanio (PAM01507). Combining two sources of light even in the darkest of hours or deepest depths of the waves, it incorporates both Super-LumiNova X1 and Super- LumiNova X2. The latter made history when it appeared on this watch, marking the first time the optimised luminescent material, made an appearance on a Panerai watch. In contrast to its predecessor, this watch’s luminescent green lacquer has a ten percent higher luminosity after 180 minutes in the dark.
LIGHT MODE
Exclusive high-tech materials
Ti-Ceramitech™
Together, Panerai and Luna Rossa push boundaries with the introduction of numerous advanced watches, using ground-breaking materials inspired by the America’s Cup.
One of several materials in the Submersible Luna Rossa’s portfolio, Ti-Ceramitech™ draws inspiration the resilient ceramic-coated materials used to reduce friction in certain parts of the racing yachts. Panerai combine this with titanium, before adding the dense layer of ceramic. The result? A material that is 44 percent lighter than steel – yet ten times less likely to fracture than ceramic.
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Submersible quarantaquattro luna rossa ti-ceramitech™
PAM 01543
Take a look at the PAM01543, which uses Electrolytic Plasma Oxidation to transform the Ti-Ceramitech™ into a deep blue, contrasting perfectly with a nautical grainy white dial. A bezel in the same material uses exposed titanium for the markers and edge. The watch has water-resistance to 500 m.
PAM 01466
Or there’s its sibling with a sunburst blue dial, the PAM01466. This QuarantaQuattro Luna Rossa Ti-Ceramitech™ is powered by the P.900, a picture of reliability thanks to its 4 Hz frequency, integration of date and small seconds and three-day power reserve.
Carbotech™
Carbotech™: a powerful material based on carbon fibre, it is one of vital importance for the Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli crew, having carbon fibre been used to build Luna Rossa’s AC75 boat’s monohull – and transformed into protective cases. The manufacturing of Carbotech™ involves a highly precise process where carbon fiber sheets are compressed at specific temperatures and high pressure, combined with Polyether Ether Ketone (PEEK), a high-performance polymer. This combination ensures a strong and durable composite material.
The production process imparts an uneven, matte black surface to Carbotech™, with variations that arise from the cutting of the material. The result? Every single watch made from Carbotech™ has a difference appearance, making each timepiece using the material unique. Additionally, the special texture of the surface gives each watch a distinctive and modern look.
Carbotech™ plates exhibit exceptional mechanical properties, particularly a high strength-to-weight ratio, contributing to superior ergonomic comfort. The material is notably lighter than both titanium and ceramic, yet it demonstrates impressive resistance to external forces and corrosion, making it ideal for demanding conditions, whatever they may be.
Echoing the daring spirit of the Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli sailing team, the watch is crafted from Carbotech™, from the case and rotating bezel to the lever bridge. Lighter than titanium and ceramic, Carbotech™ stands resilient against external forces and corrosion – its rugged, matte black facade unique to each meticulously crafted timepiece.
PAM 01563
A unidirectional rotating bezel empowers divers with precise immersion time calculations – a vital feature for underwater explorations. Resilient up to 500 metres, the Submersible Luna Rossa Carbotech™ surpasses rigorous testing, enduring pressures exceeding its designated limits by 25%. Balancing technical prowess with scrupulous design, the watch features a sun-brushed blue dial embellished with a striking red seconds hand, and is underscored by the Luna Rossa branding. The screw-back case, essential for water- resistance, is fashioned from titanium with a black DLC treatment, emblazoned with an engraved Slow Speed Torpedo – a tribute to the courageous Italian Navy commandos who once navigated the depths of the ocean with Panerai timing instruments in hand.
At the heart of the PAM01563 beats the automatic P.900 movement, renowned for its steadfast reliability and an impressive 3-day power reserve. Compact yet robust, the calibre seamlessly integrates intricate functionalities within its slender confines. Oscillating at 28,800 vibrations per hour and anchored by a precision-balanced cock, the P.900 is equipped with a stop-second function for exacting time adjustments.
DISCOVER MOREPanerai submersible
Luna rossa pam01579
Defining characteristics
- ISO 6425 Standard
- Crown Lock Mechanism
- Unidirectional Rotating Bezels Marked To 60 Minutes
- Broad Hands With Luminous Tips
- Running Seconds Indicator
- Date Window
- Water Resistance Usually To 300 M
- Automatic Movements
- Luminescent Dials
- Scratch-Resistant Sapphire Crystal
- Durable Case Materials
- Bi-Material Rubber/Textile Strap With Luna Rossa Red Stripe
Unidirectional Rotating Bezels Marked To 60 Minutes X
Broad Hands With Luminous Tips X
Scratch-Resistant Sapphire Crystal X
Bi-Material Rubber/Textile Luna Rossa Strap X
Luminescent Dials X
Date Window X
Crown Lock Mechanism X
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Manufacturing excellence
Ten years ago, Panerai reopened its new avant-garde manufacture in Neuchâtel, established in 2002 and nestled in the very heart of traditional Swiss watchmaking. A vast complex, spanning 10,000 square metres, plays host to 250 dedicated specialists. Each one is dedicated to ideas that are born in Panerai’s Laboratorio di Idee, where, through relentless research and development, Panerai’s creatives forces strive to challenge and innovate every fibre of its watches – all while staying true to tradition.
From an idea sketched on paper to the first few prototypes that slowly start to take shape, the journey of a mechanical Swiss watch is a testament to precision and passion. Every detail matters, from the selection of the finest materials to the meticulous manufacturing processes and the careful detailing of each tiny component. At Panerai’s manufacture, this odyssey is punctuated by rigorous tests, which ensure that every piece meets the highest standards of quality and performance.
It is only after these exhaustive checks and validation stages that the Panerai watch is entrusted to the deft hands of the Italian brand’s watchmakers. In the heart of the assembly workshops, the horology house’s skilled artisans carefully breathe life into each piece, transforming a vision into reality.
Striving for independence
Panerai leverages on its continual technological advancements and cutting-edge equipment to achieve and elevate its vertical integration.
Within an expansive 800-square-metre space on the ground floor, state-of-the-art laboratory conducts thousands of tests annually ensuring reliability and robustness to the creations, including water tightness, shock, and aging tests. The precision required here is extraordinary, with tolerances measured in microns. Panerai’s machines are programmed for complex tasks, sometimes with extended production cycles to achieve flawless geometries.
ASSEMBLING AN ICON
Even during assembly, skilled technical savoir-faire remains crucial at Panerai. Supported by advanced technology, the brand’s artisans ensure efficiency and precision throughout its assembly lines. The assembly and adjustment stages are crucial in achieving the utmost accuracy of mechanical timepieces. Delicate operations include centring and levelling the balance spring, precise setup of the escapement, adjustment of the balance wheel, and fine-tuning the lever. Each step demands exacting precision to ensure consistent, long-term performance within the industry’s most stringent tolerances.
QUALITY CONTROL
Panerai watches, long crafted for use in the harshest conditions, undergo continuous and rigorous quality control and testing. These cutting-edge technology measures ensure standards that exceed industry regulations. Every inspection is designed to guarantee the utmost reliability and durability of each Panerai timepiece.
Originally developed for professional divers, Panerai watches must withstand extreme environmental challenges. Among these testing measures, Panerai undergoes a time-setting test with 10,000 hours of time adjustments to simulate ten years of frequent time setting to ensure the watch’s longevity under continuous use. For the GMT complication, timepieces are tested through 10,000 hours of rapid time zone corrections, equivalent to 20 changes per week, to guarantee global travel adaptability; the manual winding mechanism of the automatic watches is subjected to 520 cycles of winding and unwinding, ensuring its reliability for a decade of daily use.
For chronograph functions, they are tested through 15,000 cycles of starts, stops, and resets, mimicking the actions of the most active wearers. For a watch that looks as good as it functions, the leather straps are tested for traction and torsion resistance through 24,000 cycles, ensuring their elegance and durability through all conditions, whether dry or wet. Water resistance is a cornerstone requirement, critical for the DNA of the Maison: all Panerai watches exceed standard limits by more than 25 percent. This ranges from a minimum of 3 bar to 50 bar for the most extreme Submersible models.
HOROLOGICAL EXCELLENCE
THE SUBMERSIBLE TOURBILLON GMT LUNA ROSSA EXPERIENCE EDITION PAM01405
A mere 20 pieces of the Submersible Tourbillon GMT Luna Rossa Experience Edition exist – and with good reason. As the name implies, each owner receives not only a Panerai timepiece, but the opportunity to experience life behind the scenes at the 37th America’s Cup and engage with the Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli crew. In many ways, this exemplifies Panerai’s pledge to creating not only timepieces for its followers, but priceless personal experiences and special moments.
The first of its kind
The Submersible Tourbillon GMT Luna Rossa Experience Edition is the first ever 45 mm Submersible model to house a tourbillon – and it’s done in combination with Carbotech™, with the case providing water resistance to 300 m.
The PAM01405 features a titanium bezel coated in black DLC, adorned with white lacquer indexes. Its skeletonised dial offers a peek into the intricate mechanical movements, complemented by red and white accents on the hands and hour markers for clarity, reflecting Luna Rossa’s distinctive colours.
Quietly integrating other elements inspired by Luna Rossa, the shape of the GMT hands also recall the Luna Rossa sail. A Super-LumiNova coating on the flange improves visibility in low-light conditions, while the hour, minute, and bezel markers are coated in blue and green Super-LumiNova for improved readability in dark or underwater environments.
The movement: calibre p.2015/t
The manual-winding calibre P.2015/T is the result of a painstaking three years of development, while assembly of the movement and its tourbillon cage demands eight hours from its watchmakers.
Panerai’s patented tourbillon completes a horizontal rotation every 30 seconds, rotating on the perpendicular to the balance wheel in order to compensate the effects of gravity and simultaneously visually showcase Panerai’s expertise in the field of complications.
The calibre P.2015/T places the Luna Rossa Submersible’s 4-day power reserve indicator on the back of the watch, while the dial caters to its traveling owner with the addition of a 24-hour GMT function as well as a night to day indicator.
The submersible tourbillon gmt luna rossa experience edition
PAM01405
LIGHT MODE
- FUNCTIONS
- Tourbillon, World time, Hours, Minutes, Small seconds, Second time zone, Power reserve
- CASE
- Diameter 45mm, Carbotech™
- BEZEL
- Titanium DLC anti-clockwise rotating bezel with graduated scale and numerals
- STRAP:
- Bi-material grey Luna Rossa, STD, 24/22, BA. Trapezoidal titanium buckle with DLC coating, 22mm
- MOVEMENT
- Hand-wound mechanical, P.2015/T calibre, 15 1/3 lignes, 7.88mm thick, 27 jewels, Glucydur® balance, 28,800 vibrations/hour, Incabloc® anti-shock device. Power reserve 4 days, two barrels. 256 components.
- CASEBACK
- Screwed, see-through sapphire crystal and titanium DLC
- WATER RESISTANCE
- 30.0 bar (~300.0 metres)
- LIMITED EDITION
- 20 pieces worldwide
Tourbillon X
Carbotech™ case: 45mm X
Bi-material grey Luna Rossa strap X
Titanium DLC anti-clockwise rotating bezel with graduated scale and numerals X
Crown lock mechanism X
Submersible luna rossa online exclusive pam01565
THE DEVIL IS IN THE DETAILS
The Submersible Luna Rossa has a 42 mm brushed case made of AISI 316L stainless steel, creating a bright contrast to the watch’s matte black and blue elements. Its steel bezel includes a matte black, scratch-resistant ceramic disc that rotates counter-clockwise. The watch is protected by a sapphire crystal and a screw-down caseback, ensuring water resistance up to 300 meters. It has been tested to withstand pressures 25% higher than its guaranteed water resistance. The caseback is engraved with a slow-moving torpedo, a nod to the Italian Navy commandos’ use of similar ‘pigs’ for underwater missions in the 1940s, when they relied on instruments from the Florentine brand.
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Connect to the ocean
The vast expanse of the sea reveals an interplay of light and dark colours beneath the surface. The blue dial of the Submersible Luna Rossa captures this effect, featuring a black colour gradient and sunburst pattern that mimic water reflections.
Submersible luna rossa collection
