Aviation-inspired submarine diving watch, the Marina Militare 300m Submersible Diver, launched by Panerai.
Introducing the Panerai Submersible Marina Militare PAM01697 and PAM01698 Watches
Panerai has unveiled two new additions to its Submersible collection, the PAM01697 and PAM01698, in collaboration with the Italian Navy's aviation branch, Aviazione Navale. These watches pay tribute to the historical principles of the Aviazione Navale, incorporating elements of ruggedness, operational precision, visibility, and naval aviation heritage.
Design and Functionality
The PAM01698 features a 44mm case made of Panerai's proprietary carbon fiber composite, Carbotech, while the PAM01697 boasts a brushed stainless steel case with a green ceramic bezel. Both models share a lug-to-lug measurement of 53.5mm and a 300-meter water resistance, reflecting their readiness for diverse maritime missions.
The dials of both models are matte green, gradually fading to black towards the edges, reminiscent of the flight helmets and gear worn by naval aviators. The small seconds subdial at 9 o'clock on both watches is designed to resemble a radar display, featuring the subtle engraving of the Aviazione Navale's anchor insignia.
To enhance legibility in low-light environments, the hour indices have been increased by 20%, resulting in 45% more luminous surface area. The lume used is gray Super-LumiNova X2, a departure from the typical green lume found on most military-inspired watches.
Material Innovation and Design Cues
The PAM01698 utilizes Carbotech, a lighter and tougher material than titanium, embodying the Aviazione Navale's need for durable yet lightweight equipment. The case back of both models is engraved with the Aviazione Navale wings emblem, a first for Panerai outside of their ultra-exclusive Experience pieces.
Straps and Pricing
The Submersible Marina Militare PAM01697 and PAM01698 models come with green canvas straps with T/T stitching, and an additional black rubber strap. The PAM01697 is priced at $12,500, while the PAM01698 made of Carbotech is priced at $19,500.
In summary, the Panerai Submersible Marina Militare PAM01697 and PAM01698 watches embody the Aviazione Navale's historical principles of ruggedness, operational precision, visibility, and tribute to naval aviation heritage. These timepieces integrate material innovation and design cues directly referencing the Italian Navy aviators’ tools and spirit. Both models are available now through authorized dealers and are not limited editions.
[1] Panerai Press Release [2] Hodinkee Article [3] WatchPro Article [4] A Blog to Watch Article [5] Time and Tide Watches Article
Style and technology are integrated in the Panerai Submersible Marina Militare PAM01697 and PAM01698 watches, as these gadgets also showcase materials innovation, like the use of carbon fiber composite in the PAM01698 case or the gray Super-LumiNova X2 lume for enhanced legibility.
