To know that bigger isn’t always better, you just need to go watch shopping. Sure, a 34mm vintage watch might feel a little too dainty and delicate, but a hulking 50mm dive watch probably won’t be too comfortable on your wrist either. Somewhere in the modest middle ground is probably the best option, which is exactly what the new Panerai Luminor Marina Quaranta collection is offering.
The Luminor collection is a popular one for Panerai, offering a number of different complications in a range of different sizes, with 42mm being the smallest option. However, just like Panerai’s Richemont stablemate IWC did with their iconic Big Pilot, the Luminor is being downsized, now available in a 40mm case for the first time.
While the Panerai aesthetic is closely linked to the historically larger timepieces that were produced for the Italian Navy, a move to a smaller case size is one that makes sense, allowing a greater range of wrist sizes to comfortably wear a Panerai timepiece. Available in three different colours, with either a black, white or attractive sunburst blue dial, it’s a compelling new offering from the Florentine-born brand.
RELATED: Panerai Thanks Paneristi Community With Limited Edition Radiomir Venti
The 40mm steel case features all the trimmings you’d expect from Panerai, with a secure crown locking mechanism, screw-down caseback and 100m of water resistance. With boldly shaped luminous hour markers, running seconds at the 9 o’clock position of the dial, and the day-to-day practicality of a date window, the dial is quintessential Panerai.
The new Panerai Luminor Marina Quaranta collection is powered by the automatic P.900 calibre, which runs at 28,800vph and boasts an impressive 72 hours of power reserve. Each watch arrives with both an alligator and calf leather strap, each of which is equipped with a Quick Release System that allows you to swap between straps easily and without watch tools.
It’s an exciting new offering from Panerai, that is sure to entice a group of clients who may have hesitated in the past due to the typically larger timepieces in the catalogue. There’s no word on pricing yet, though they’re likely to be on the more affordable end of what Panerai produce.
