he collaboration between Panerai and the Italian Navy is a defining chapter in Panerai’s history, one that began in the 1910s and has spanned over a century. Initially tasked with designing precision instruments for the Italian Navy’s missions, Panerai pioneered technical solutions that enhanced military operations in extreme conditions and environments.

This partnership extended beyond watches, encompassing innovations such as technical equipment and landing systems for aircraft carriers and helicopters capable ships. Each invention exemplified Panerai’s ingenuity in crafting tools for extreme environments. In 1935, Panerai developed the Ref. 2533 prototype, where Panerai’s technical modifications resulted in a timepiece that could withstand the rigors of underwater missions.

Panerai continues to honor this shared legacy through timepieces combining robust engineering with contemporary functionality. This latest collection is inspired by Aviazione Navale - the Italian Navy aviation branch - whose commitment is providing embarked aircraft as force multipliers of the Fleet in the more challenging environments, projecting at distance operational capabilities on and from the sea wherever they’re needed. The choice of associating with the Aviazione Navale, with its heritage of operational commitment and with some of the most advanced rotary and fixed wing aircraft, reinforces Panerai bonds with the Armed Forces, closely linked to the brand’s DNA of designing professional tool watches that excel in precision, durability, and toughness. This enduring partnership between two Italian names, celebrates a mutual dedication to innovation and purpose.

The Submersible Marina Militare PAM01697 and Submersible Marina Militare Carbotech^TM PAM01698 represent the maximum expression of Panerai’s enduring collaboration with the Italian Navy, reflecting decades of precision engineering and innovation. Drawing inspiration from the elite Aviazione Navale, it showcases Panerai’s ability to create purpose- driven timepieces featuring cutting-edge materials and advanced functionality while paying homage to its legacy.

“The new Submersible Marina Militare timepieces are symbols of our enduring partnership with the Italian Navy, a relationship that began in the 1910s and remains a cornerstone of our DNA. Designed as true tool watches, these timepieces honor our legacy of engineering precision instruments for survival and adventure. This launch continues our mission to create timepieces that reflect Panerai’s military heritage while inspiring extraordinary journeys in the toughest conditions,” says Alessandro Ficarelli, Chief Marketing and Product Officer of Panerai.

The new timepieces are powered by the automatic P.900 calibre, integrating expansive functions within the confines of remarkably streamlined proportions. It measures 121⁄2 lignes (28mm) in diameter and is only 4.2 mm thick. The energy necessary to accumulate a power reserve of three days is delivered by a bidirectional oscillating weight and stored in a single barrel. Its balance wheel, oscillating at a frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour, is securely fixed in position by a balance cock. The caliber is equipped with a stop-second function that enables precise time setting.

PAM01697’s 44mm case is constructed from brushed 316LVM – 1.4441 stainless steel, and the unidirectional rotating bezel is paired with a matt green ceramic disk. PAM01698’s case is made entirely of Carbotech^TM, a material renowned for its lightweight and robust nature, crafted from carbon fibers. The manufacturing process of Carbotech^TM involves compressing carbon fiber sheets at a precise temperature and high pressure along with PEEK (Polyether Ether Ketone), a superior polymer that reinforces the composite, enhancing its strength and longevity.

The resultant Carbotech^TM plates boast superior mechanical properties and performance in terms of strength-to-weight ratio, enabling very comfortable ergonomics while being resistant to tough wear conditions. Notably lighter than titanium and ceramic, Carbotech^TM excels in resistance to external forces and corrosion. Its uneven, matt black surface, which varies according to the cutting of the material, lends every singular watch a slightly different appearance.

Both timepieces feature green-grained matt dials with a black gradient finish – inspired by Aviazione Navale aircrew flight gear and helmets – and a Marina Militare signature at 6 o’clock. Grey Super-LumiNova^®, taking after the colors of Aviazione Navale aircraft, enhances legibility in low-light conditions, while the small seconds counter’s design resembles a radar display, with the historical Aviazione Navale aircraft’s anchor insignia subtly engraved. The dials’ applied indexes are wider by 20% in diameter with an expanded Super-LumiNova® surface area by 45%, ensuring enhanced readability and improved visibility in low-light conditions, an especially useful feat in challenging environments.

The case backs are engraved with the Aviazione Navale wings emblem, a first-time ever in Panerai’s collections, completing the watches’ refined yet robust design. Designed also for deep-sea exploration, the novelties are water resistant up to 30 bar ( 300 meters), and as with all Panerai watches, these timepieces are tested to +25% of their stated water resistance. The two Submersible watches are matched with green canvas straps with distinctive T/T stitching, delivering durability and a nod to the military uniforms and they are both paired with a second black rubber strap.