LUMINOR MARINA AUTOMATIC

New bracelets, new case sizes and innovative dials are the distinctive features of the two latest versions of the Luminor Marina Automatic: a range of models from the Contemporary Collection deriving from a special series made in the early 1990s and named after the Italian Navy.

The name attests to the fine tradition linking Officine Panerai to the world of the sea, as it continues to present watches which embody the same reliability, strength and water resistance that made their predecessors famous. Then, of course, there’s the unmistakable Panerai design, which is immediately recognisable thanks first and foremost to its special bridge device protecting the crown.

The two versions of Luminor Marina Automatic differ both in size as well as in the metal used to make the case, caseback and bracelet: Luminor Marina Automatic 44 mm, Titanium bracelet (PAM00296) is made in titanium with a 44mm diameter case, while the Luminor Marina Automatic 40 mm, Steel bracelet (PAM00298) comes in steel with a 40mm case.

In both versions, the metal has undergone a brushing treatment, with a new generation of bracelets featuring asymmetric links which are rounded lengthways as well as across. One small detail is a testament to the technical expertise of the Officine Panerai craftsmen: in fact, the links have a polished surface at their point of contact, a difficult procedure to carry out, particularly on titanium.

The case of both models is water resistant in depths of up to 300 metres, with the typical Luminor shape, but with a smaller diameter of 40mm in the PAM00298. This modification alters neither the design nor the spirit of the model, which remains strong, sporty and typically masculine. The levered bridge which protects the crown and ensures water resistance has consequently been resized, keeping the watch’s appeal and technical value intact.

With a screw-down caseback, the two models have a magnifying lens on the date display and anti-reflective sapphire crystal, with a thickness of 3.7 mm for the steel version and of 3.5 mm for the titanium model with 44mm case.

While the steel version maintains the classic black dial, the titanium model has a dark brown face: a historic shade for Officine Panerai, revived in 2007 with great international success. Apart from the colour difference, the two dials have the same, classic design with large luminous Arabic numerals, markers and index hands, while the hand of the small seconds, in the sub-dial at 9, is leaf-shaped.

The movement operating the two new Luminor Marina Automatic models is the automatic OP III calibre, measuring 13 ¼ lignes in diameter and in these two new versions it also comes with the official chronometer certification issued by the C.O.S.C. The movement has a 42-hour power reserve with decorated bridges and a personalised Officine Panerai oscillating weight.

The new Luminor Marina Automatic watches are sold with a small tool for bracelet replacement.