10 Best Panerai Submersible Watches

Panerai. With arms the size of, well, action movie stars, the moniker conjures up ideas of Sylvester Stallone and Arnie wearing these statement pieces. The Submersible is fairly simple to identify thanks to its recognisable cushion casing and crown guard, which both contribute to its status as an iconic timepiece.

You can choose from a variety of versions and forms of the eminently large diver. Panerai has even dabbled in precious metals recently.

ABOUT PANERAI SUBMERSIBLE WATCHES

The Panerai Submersible, which can survive a commendable 300 metres of sea depth, is in the category of the hard-core diver. The smallest watch in the current catalogue, which is distinctively Panerai, has a substantial 42mm diameter.

The Submersible used to just have a steel case, but recently, the manufacturer has started experimenting with other materials. Today, you may get Submersibles made of bronze for an antique look, Carbotech (a composite material based on carbon fibre), and even yellow gold.

The trademarked crown guard and the big sword hands are other distinguishing characteristics. In keeping with the “yesterday” idea, none of the date features include a Cyclops.

The ‘Submersible S Brabus Blue Shadow Edition’ was made in collaboration with the German engineering firm famed for building enormously fast (and big) Mercedes AMGs and boats. Panerai also enjoys collaborating with other brands to release unique editions. It appears to be the ideal fit for Panerai’s overall philosophy.

HISTORY OF PANERAI SUBMERSIBLE WATCHES

Despite the fact that Panerai scarcely requires an introduction, in case you do, the Italian company (Officine Panerai) was founded in 1860 by Giovanni Panerai. Initially, Rolex (yes, that Rolex) produced several versions (such as the Radiomir), with Panerai contributing to the design.

The Italian Navy was Panerai’s biggest customer in the 1990s, so when the Navy eventually stopped buying Panerais, it caused a problem—a big problem. However, a strategy was developing at Panerai HQ. Why not market to consumers?

After creating a small batch of 700 Luminors for the Italian market, Mr. “Sly” Stallone reportedly fell head over heels in love with the product in 1995 and bought one for himself and a friend. The peer in question was Mr Johann Rupert, CEO of Richemont, who ultimately opted to purchase Panerai after getting to know the Luminor. Not a watch, but the whole business.

The Submersible finally came to light in 1998. At first, it was a Luminor that had been redesigned with some diving features added, such the “L’Egiziano” bezel seen on a watch that Panerai made for the Egyptian Navy back in 1956.

Since then, it has remained a constant in the lineup, and despite its frightening stature, both collectors and aficionados adore it.

Strangely, even my mother likes it.

OTHER NOTABLE PANERAI WATCHES

Unfortunately, when one thinks about Panerai, the first things that come to mind are size, heft, and “Way too big for me!” This is sad because their models are much more than just size and heft.

The most well-known of their products, the Radiomir, was released as the ref. 3646 in the 1940s. The Radiomir features a sizable cushion-shaped casing, wire lugs, a dial with luminous hands and markers, and the recognisable layout of four sizable Arabic numerals. These were first employed by the Royal Italian Navy before being made available to the general public.

The Luminor was invented by Giuseppe Panerai in 1949 as a new luminous material that was less harmful than tritium-based chemicals. Additionally, the Luminor has unique characteristics of its own, such as the innovative crown guard. The Luminor Due is a more adaptable alternative with a typically smaller case, and Panerai has recently experimented with colours and finishing techniques with this model.

THE 10 BEST PANERAI SUBMERSIBLE WATCHES

1. PANERAI SUBMERSIBLE STEEL BLACK DIAL (REF. PAM02683)

We start off the list strongly. The PAM02683 is made of steel, as many people think all divers ought to be. However, the inclusion of a ceramic anti-clockwise rotating bezel with a time-elapsed diving graduation elevates it.

Light blue is subtly used on the ‘SUBMERSIBLE’ and ‘300m/1000ft’ inscriptions, as well as the little seconds hand, on the deep black dial. The skeletonized sword hands and the unique crown guard are also present, along with other distinguishing characteristics of the Submersible.

The P.900 calibre, which is thought to be the OP XXXIV calibre with a new name, is housed inside the waterproof case. The self-winding movement has a power reserve of three days (or 72 hours).

2. PANERAI SUBMERSIBLE CARBOTECH™ (REF. PAM02231)

If you want to wear a stealthy Panerai, consider the PAM02231, which is made of CarbotechTM, a composite material based on carbon fibre and has a caseback made of black Titanium. The ceramic uni-directional bezel matches the dark casing with a similar hue.

It sports a black bezel with light blue accents on the words “SUBMERSIBLE,” “300m/1000ft,” and the little seconds hand, just as the model stated above. The patented crown guard, which, in case you didn’t know, was present on early Luminor models back in the 1940s and 1950s, is the 42mm Submersible’s final feature, and the locking lever enables an even tighter seal.

3. PANERAI SUBMERSIBLE BIANCO (REF. PAM02223)

Most Paneristi (Panerai enthusiasts) are aware that white dial models are uncommon, which is unfortunate because it results in a beautiful clock. The PAM02223 is known as “Bianco” because of its recognisable 42mm Submersible casing and white-on-white dial.

There isn’t a “pop of colour” on this dial like there was on the two prior iterations. The hour hands and skeletonized sword marks are surrounded by fine black lines. Additionally, we have a brushed steel anti-clockwise rotating bezel with a graduated scale, which contrasts with the ceramic bezel design we’ve seen so far. The P.900 calibre handles timekeeping responsibilities together with its dependable three-day power reserve.

4. PANERAI SUBMERSIBLE QUARANTAQUATTRO ESTEEL™ VERDE SMERALDO (REF. PAM01287)

Electric vehicles and eco-friendly products abound in today’s globe. Even an electric Hummer is available now, so if you drive one and want a watch that matches, the Submersible QuarantaQuattro ESteelTM Verde Smeraldo would be the best choice.

This reference’s steel is made from the recycled steel product eSteelTM. In actuality, 72 grammes out of the 137 grammes that make up the watch’s overall weight are recycled. The Submersible maintains its eco-friendly design with a dark green dial, ceramic bezel inlay, and recycled PET strap.

The Submersible has skeletonized sword hands and a distinctive crown guard, but other than these green accents, it is the same as the other members of the lineup.

5. PANERAI SUBMERSIBLE BMG-TECH™ (REF. PAM02692)

Why not opt for the genuine Hummer if you aren’t precisely green? Alternatively, in this case, the PAM02692. The 47mm case is a notable improvement over the earlier models, however it (presumably) isn’t made of steel like the Hummer.

Bulk metallic glass, or “BMG,” is referred to in the name as the material that was utilised to make the case. To give you the appearance and feel of conventional steel with many improvements, such as better scratch resistance and less weight.

When the high-pressure, high-temperature injection process is combined with a rapid cooling action, which prevents the mineral from settling in an ordered pattern, BMG is an alloy with a disordered atomic structure created. A strong and lightweight material is the end result.

Back to PAM02692 now! It includes

Why not opt for the genuine Hummer if you aren’t precisely green? Alternatively, in this case, the PAM02692. The 47mm case is a notable improvement over the earlier models, however it (presumably) isn’t made of steel like the Hummer.

Bulk metallic glass, or “BMG,” is referred to in the name as the material that was utilised to make the case. To give you the appearance and feel of conventional steel with many improvements, such as better scratch resistance and less weight.

When the high-pressure, high-temperature injection process is combined with a rapid cooling action, which prevents the mineral from settling in an ordered pattern, BMG is an alloy with a disordered atomic structure created. A strong and lightweight material is the end result.

Back to PAM02692 now! With its huge white hour markers, deep blue dial, and skeletonized sword hands, it has a striking appearance. A thick rubber strap for maritime expeditions up to 300 metres below sea level completes the sturdy feel.

6. PANERAI SUBMERSIBLE BRONZO (REF. PAM00968)

Unfortunately, bronze is a material that we seldom ever see in the watch industry, and if we’re being completely honest, only several companies can pull it off. The PAM382, the first bronze Submersible (also known as the Bronzo), was produced in 2011 and quickly rose to popularity. The PAM00968, a bronze Submersible that was produced in just 1,000 pieces, was the fourth iteration.

The P.9010 movement allowed for a smaller case with a ceramic bezel inlay, in contrast to preceding Bronze versions. But if you can bench 415 pounds, don’t panic; the casing still has a massive 47mm diameter.

A matte dark brown dial, a linear brush finish, and the copper’s natural patina combine to make a unique design that is hard to find anywhere.

7. PANERAI SUBMERSIBLE GOLDTECH™ (REF. PAM02164)

Why not add a little more glitz? The PAM02164 is made of GoldtechTM, which differs from ordinary gold since it contains platinum and copper. These modifications increase the case’s lifespan while also giving it a distinctive look.

Skeletized gold hands and corresponding applied hour markers are matched to the 42mm gold casing. In contrast to other products on the list, this one displays a polished finish as opposed to the brushed finish we often find on Panerais, which effectively emphasises the bling.

Despite this, the clock maintains its 300m water resistant diving capabilities thanks to the golden crown guard that is its signature. A sturdy 3-day power reserve is provided by the P.900 calibre, which is housed behind the screw-down caseback that is DLC coated.

8. PANERAI SUBMERSIBLE LUNA ROSSA (REF. PAM01039)

The PAM01039 was created in partnership with the Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli Team as they prepare for the American Cup. Panerai is known for sponsoring teams and working with businesses.

With a 47mm diameter, it has similar wearing proportions to other Panerais but is finished in black Carbotech and has a matching Carbotech bezel. The fact that it is the first GMT on the list further distinguishes it from the others. The red GMT hand stands out sharply against the matte CarbotechTM dial, displaying the functionality of the watch in an intriguing manner.

With its characteristic crown guard and lug profile, this Submersible is identical to the others save from this slight crimson tint.

9. PANERAI SUBMERSIBLE MIKE HORN EDITION (REF. PAM00984)

Mike Horn, a Swiss professional explorer of South African descent, has accomplished some incredible exploits, including a six-month solo trip without the use of motorised transportation around the equator. For all of his exploits, a hardcore watch firm made him a hardcore watch, and so the PAM00984 is released.

I sense a pattern here: EcoTitaniumTM is used to make the case, crown guard, bezel, and case back, while recycled titanium is used for the strap.

Due to the lack of a ceramic bezel inlay, this design may be the most distinctive on the list, but it gives this limited edition watch a subtle appearance. The bezel appears to have been sandblasted, which is an appropriate metaphor for an explorer wearing a watch that is far over $10,000. The case and lugs are treated with a polish technique.

The well-known crown guard and 47mm size are still iconic Panerai features. The dial is neat and easy to read in the dark thanks to the tastefully illuminated hour markers and hands.

10. PANERAI SUBMERSIBLE S BRABUS BLACK OPS EDITION (REF. PAM01240)

The collaboration between Panerai and Brabus is one that is obvious. If you didn’t already know, Brabus is boisterous. Assertive. While encasing the driver in German luxury, they create their vehicles to awaken the neighbourhood. Does anything come to mind? In my opinion, Panerai does not apologise for who or what it is, and I regard it as such.

The initial product of the two businesses’ collaboration, the PAM01240, was heavily influenced by the Brabus “Shadow Black Ops” line of boats. A fully skeletonized P.4001/S calibre in a 47mm CarbotechTM casing produces visual fascination unlike anything else on the list.

The small seconds sub-register, date aperture, and red accents on the time and GMT hands, as well as the reverse of the case, which displays the tungsten oscillating weight finished off-center, are sure to improve wearing comfort.

It provides a power reserve, a world-time function, and a GMT in addition to the 3-day power reserve we now anticipate from the Submersible. Actually, this applies to everyone who frequently travels on their boat with 1,200 horsepower. Or vehicle.

CONCLUSION

To be totally honest, I never liked Panerai. They had an underlying ideology that I could never fully comprehend. That has completely altered after extensive research and examination of numerous of their current and vintage items.

However, I adore anyone or anything that is so predictable in and of itself. How many aspects of your life are so consistent that they become routine?

What can your submersible anticipate from you? Steel, gold, carbon fibre, and even bronze are available. It will be large, substantial, durable, and will constantly make you grin since you will know that you purchased a watch that fits you. Your Submersible and you are who you are, without apology.