Part of Panerai’s Complicazioni collection, which boasts chronographs and high-end complications, the GMT feature of the Luminor Dieci Giorni PAM01482 allows for tracking dual time zones. With its polished cushion-shaped case, sandwich dial, and iconic crown protector, this new model embodies the quintessential Panerai characteristics. While it adheres to the familiar Panerai formula, the amalgamation of these details renders an aesthetically pleasing watch. But does it possess the allure to captivate prospective Panerai aficionados? Let’s delve deeper to discern.
Amidst Panerai’s resolute focus on Luna Rossa at Watches and Wonders, there arose curiosity within the Fratello team regarding the brand’s trajectory. While the releases of 2024, including the PAM01405, PAM01466, and PAM1507, stayed faithful to Panerai’s essence, the marketing narrative felt somewhat repetitive. The prominence given to the collaboration with Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli, as the official sponsor of the Italian sailing team at the 37th America’s Cup, seemed somewhat limited in scope. Undoubtedly, this partnership holds significance, especially with the upcoming event this year. Nevertheless, in his comprehensive review of these replica watches, Fratello’s editor Thomas van Straaten aptly posed the question, “Who are these co-branded watches truly intended for?”
The Luminor Dieci Giorni GMT PAM01482 represents a departure from the Luna Rossa motif, catering to a broader audience. However, the blue sunray-brushed dial, reminiscent of the PAM01466 unveiled at Watches and Wonders, maintains thematic continuity. Featuring oversized numerals and elongated indices crafted from white Super-LumiNova, the dial ensures legibility even in dimly lit environments. Aptly dubbed the “sandwich” due to its layered construction, the dial maximizes luminescence across a larger surface area. Noteworthy are the two apertures on the AM/PM indicator at 9 o’clock, allowing the underlying lume layer to radiate. The presence of a date window at 3 o’clock offsets the petite seconds sub-dial, while the linear power reserve indicator at 6 o’clock commands attention as it tracks the gradual release of the 240-hour power reserve housed within the mainspring barrel.
At the heart of this watch lies the P.2003 movement, Panerai’s inaugural automatic caliber developed at its Neuchâtel manufacture in Switzerland. Although this caliber has a storied history, Panerai accentuates its Italian heritage with the dial inscription, which reads “10 Giorni” instead of the conventional “10 Days” beneath the power reserve indicator. Referencing Panerai’s models from the 1960s, which utilized the Angelus SF240 movement boasting an eight-day power reserve, this caliber features 25 jewels, operates at a frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour, incorporates Kif shock protection, and includes a seconds-reset mechanism. While all five hands on the dial are propelled by this caliber, its intricacies are revealed through the exhibition case back, adorned with sapphire crystal. Despite this transparency, the Panerai boasts a water resistance of 100 meters, a testament to its lineage from the Marina Militare; however, some enthusiasts may have expected a higher rating akin to the Submersible range.
In terms of specifications and pricing, Panerai ensures reliability by subjecting each clone watch to pressure 25% above the guaranteed water resistance, thereby allowing a margin of error for extreme conditions. Yet, the steep price tag of £13,200 for the steel variant of the Luminor Dieci Giorni GMT PAM01482 may give pause to prospective buyers. However, Panerai endeavors to soften the blow by offering two straps: one crafted from dark blue alligator leather and the other from rubber in a matching hue. What are your impressions of this latest offering from Panerai? Does it possess the allure to entice newcomers to the brand? Share your thoughts in the comments section below.