Panerai Submersible Marina Militare

Panerai's deep-rooted connection with the Italian Navy, the Marina Militare, represents one of the most authentic and enduring military-horological partnerships in history. This relationship, forged in the early 20th century, was not one of mere supply but of intensive collaboration and innovation. Panerai was entrusted with developing mission-critical instruments for the Navy's most elite units, pushing the boundaries of what was possible in terms of luminescence, water resistance, and sheer durability. This legacy is not a historical footnote; it is the very foundation upon which the brand's modern identity is built, and it finds its latest expression in two new formidable timepieces: the Submersible Marina Militare PAM01697 and the Submersible Marina Militare Carbotech PAM01698.

The story begins in Florence in 1860, but the pivotal chapter for Panerai's dive watch legacy started in the 1910s. The Royal Italian Navy required precision tools that could perform flawlessly under the extreme pressures of underwater operations. Panerai answered the call, not just with watches, but with a range of instruments like depth gauges and compasses. A key breakthrough was the development of Radiomir, a radium-based luminescent paint that allowed commandos to read their instruments in the complete darkness of the deep sea. This commitment to functional innovation was paramount.



This legacy of invention continued, leading to the creation of the Ref. 2533 prototype in 1935. This watch was a direct result of Panerai’s technical modifications designed to create a timepiece robust enough for the Incursori, the Italian Navy's elite underwater commandos. These early designs were classified under the Military Secrets Act for decades, their large cushion-shaped cases and protected crowns becoming iconic only after the brand was introduced to the civilian market in 1997. The partnership extended beyond personal equipment to include advanced technical systems for naval vessels, demonstrating a level of engineering integration that few watchmakers can claim.

The new Submersible models are directly inspired by a specific and highly advanced branch of the Italian Navy: the Aviazione Navale, or Naval Aviation. This unit is responsible for operating aircraft from naval carriers and helicopter-capable ships, acting as a force multiplier for the fleet in some of the world's most demanding environments. By aligning these new watches with the Aviazione Navale, Panerai reinforces its connection to the modern military hero, crafting tools designed for precision and toughness in the face of extreme challenges. It’s a fitting tribute that honors a shared Italian heritage dedicated to purpose-driven innovation.

At the heart of both new timepieces is the Panerai P.900 automatic calibre. This movement is a testament to Panerai's engineering philosophy of integrating extensive functionality within remarkably streamlined proportions. While many robust dive watches require bulky cases to house their movements, the P.900 allows for a more wearable profile without sacrificing performance. The calibre itself is a sophisticated piece of micro-engineering designed for reliability and endurance.

Measuring just 12 lignes (approximately 28mm) in diameter and a mere 4.2mm in thickness, the P.900 is impressively slender for an automatic movement with its capabilities. This slimness is crucial in achieving the balanced ergonomics of the 44mm Submersible case. The movement is comprised of 171 components, each working in concert to deliver precision timekeeping. Its efficiency is highlighted by its ability to store a substantial three-day power reserve within a single barrel, fed by a bidirectional oscillating weight that winds the mainspring with the natural motion of the wearer's wrist.



The timekeeping accuracy of the P.900 is governed by a balance wheel oscillating at a frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour, or 4 Hz. This high frequency contributes to the movement's stability and resistance to shocks, a critical attribute for a tool watch intended for harsh environments. The balance is held securely by a balance cock, providing a more stable and robust mounting than a standard balance bridge. Furthermore, the calibre is equipped with an Incabloc® anti-shock device, further protecting the delicate regulating organ from impacts.

A key feature for practical use is the P.900’s stop-second function. When the crown is pulled out to the time-setting position, the balance wheel is halted, and the seconds hand resets to the zero position. This allows the wearer to synchronize the watch perfectly with a reference time signal, an essential function for coordinated military operations and a welcome feature for any enthusiast demanding precision. This combination of a long power reserve, robust construction, and precise setting capabilities makes the P.900 the ideal engine for these modern instruments.

The two models are distinguished primarily by their case materials, offering two distinct interpretations of the Submersible's tactical design. The Submersible Marina Militare PAM01697 features a 44mm case crafted from brushed 316LVM stainless steel. This is not ordinary stainless steel; the 1.4441 grade is a high-purity, low-carbon alloy known for its superior corrosion resistance, making it particularly well-suited for a watch intended for saltwater environments. The case has a purposeful, satin-brushed finish that minimizes reflections, while the unidirectional rotating bezel features polished accents for a subtle contrast.

The bezel of the PAM01697 is a key functional and aesthetic component. It rotates counter-clockwise with satisfyingly solid clicks, allowing a diver to set an immersion time. The defining feature here is the matt green ceramic disk insert. This material is virtually scratch-proof and resistant to fading from UV exposure, ensuring the bezel's markings remain crisp and legible for the life of the watch. The color perfectly complements the dial, creating a cohesive and militaristic look. The solid, screwed-in steel case-back ensures the watch's structural integrity and water resistance.



In stark contrast, the Submersible Marina Militare Carbotech PAM01698 utilizes one of Panerai's most advanced proprietary materials. The entire 44mm case and the unidirectional rotating bezel are constructed from Carbotech. This composite material is formed by compressing thin sheets of carbon fiber at a controlled temperature and under high pressure with a high-tech polymer, PEEK (Polyether Ether Ketone). This process binds the carbon fibers together, creating a composite that is stronger and more durable than the individual components.

The resulting properties of Carbotech are exceptional. It is significantly lighter than both titanium and ceramic, which translates to incredible comfort on the wrist, especially for a watch of this size. Despite its low weight, it offers superior resistance to external shocks, impacts, and corrosion. Aesthetically, Carbotech is unique. The manufacturing process results in an uneven, matt black appearance that varies with how the material is cut. This means that no two Carbotech cases are exactly alike, giving each PAM01698 a subtle, one-of-a-kind character. The case back on this model is made of screwed-in, black DLC-coated titanium to maintain the watch's lightweight and hypoallergenic properties.

Both watches share a dial that is rich in detail and directly inspired by the equipment of the Aviazione Navale. The surface features a green-grained matt texture, which gives it a non-reflective, utilitarian quality. This green base is enhanced with a black gradient finish around the edge, darkening towards the rehaut, a visual cue taken from the flight gear and helmets worn by Italian Navy aircrews. The "Marina Militare" signature is proudly displayed above the 6 o'clock position, cementing the watch's lineage.

Legibility, a Panerai hallmark, is taken to a new level in these models. The applied hour markers and hands are filled with grey Super-LumiNova Grade X2, a specific color choice that echoes the tones of Aviazione Navale aircraft. Panerai’s engineers have increased the diameter of the applied indexes by 20% and expanded the surface area coated in Super-LumiNova® by a significant 45%. The result is a dial that offers dramatically improved visibility in low-light or underwater conditions, glowing brightly and with longevity.



A particularly clever detail is found on the small seconds subdial at the 9 o’clock position. The design is intended to resemble a radar display, with clean, functional markings. Subtly engraved within this subdial is the historical anchor insignia of the Aviazione Navale, a detail that is understated yet deeply meaningful. It’s a nod to the partnership that is visible to the discerning owner but doesn't clutter the primary function of the dial, which is to provide clear and immediate information.

The case back of each watch serves as a final tribute to the elite naval aviation unit. For the first time in any Panerai collection, the case backs are engraved with the official wings emblem of the Aviazione Navale. This detailed engraving depicts an anchor flanked by eagle wings under a turreted crown, a powerful symbol of the unit's domain over sea and air. This finishing touch completes the watches' robust and purpose-driven design.

As true Submersible models, both the PAM01697 and PAM01698 are built for deep-sea exploration. They boast a water resistance rating of up to 300 meters, or approximately 30 bar of pressure. True to Panerai’s rigorous standards, which exceed international norms, each watch is tested to a pressure 25% greater than its stated water resistance, ensuring it can withstand the pressures of even the most demanding underwater missions. This is not just a specification on paper; it's a guarantee of real-world performance.

To complete the military-inspired aesthetic, both watches are fitted with a durable green canvas strap. This material is rugged and comfortable, and its color is a direct nod to military uniforms. The strap features distinctive "T/T" stitching, a subtle detail that adds to its utilitarian character. The buckle on the PAM01697 is made of trapezoidal brushed stainless steel, matching the case, while the PAM01698 features a buckle made of trapezoidal black DLC-coated titanium to complement its Carbotech case.



Recognizing the versatility required by modern users, Panerai also includes a second strap with each watch. This additional strap is made of black rubber, ideal for direct and prolonged contact with water. The inclusion of this second strap, along with the tools to easily change it, allows the owner to adapt the watch to any occasion, whether it's a formal briefing or a deep-sea dive.

The Panerai Submersible Marina Militare PAM01697 in steel and the PAM01698 in Carbotech are powerful statements of the brand's heritage and technical prowess. They successfully merge historical inspiration with cutting-edge materials and contemporary watchmaking. The Submersible Marina Militare PAM01697 in brushed steel is priced at $12,500, while the advanced Submersible Marina Militare Carbotech™ PAM01698 is priced at $19,500. Both models are available through Panerai’s exclusive global network of distributors and brand boutiques, offering enthusiasts a chance to own a piece of a legacy that continues to be written in partnership with the heroes of the sea and air.

Panerai Submersible Marina Militare PAM01697

Case: 44mm diameter, brushed 316LVM stainless steel. Unidirectional rotating steel bezel with a matt green ceramic disk. Screwed steel case-back. Sapphire crystal. Water resistance 300 meters (~30 bar).

Movement: Automatic mechanical P.900 calibre. 4.2 mm thick, 23 jewels, 28,800 alternations/hour, 171 components. Incabloc® anti-shock device. 3-day power reserve from a single barrel. Stop-second function.

Dial: Green grained matt with a black gradient finish. Grey Super-LumiNova grade X2 on hands and applied indexes. Small seconds at 9 o’clock, date at 3 o’clock.

Strap: Green canvas with T/T stitching and a trapezoidal AISI 316L stainless steel pin buckle. An additional black rubber strap is included.

Price: $12,500

Reference Number: PAM01697

Notes: The screwed steel case-back is engraved with the Aviazione Navale wings emblem, a first for Panerai. Dial indexes are 20% wider with 45% more Super-LumiNova® surface area than previous models.



Panerai Submersible Marina Militare Carbotech PAM01698

Case: 44mm diameter, Carbotech case and unidirectional rotating bezel. Screwed Titanium DLC case-back. Sapphire crystal. Water resistance 300 meters (~30 bar).

Movement: Automatic mechanical P.900 calibre. 4.2 mm thick, 23 jewels, 28,800 alternations/hour, 171 components. Incabloc® anti-shock device. 3-day power reserve from a single barrel. Stop-second function.

Dial: Green grained matt with a black gradient finish. Grey Super-LumiNova grade X2 on hands and applied indexes. Small seconds at 9 o’clock with engraved Aviazione Navale anchor insignia, date at 3 o’clock.

Strap: Green canvas with T/T stitching and a trapezoidal titanium DLC pin buckle. An additional black rubber strap is included.

Price: $19,500

Reference Number: PAM01698

Notes: The Carbotech case material is exceptionally lightweight and corrosion-resistant; its unique manufacturing process gives each watch a singular appearance. The case back features the first-ever use of the Aviazione Navale wings emblem engraving.