Panerai presents “The Depths of Time”, a historical exhibition that explores the Maison’s secretive military origins and commemorates the pivotal moment of September 10, 1993, when its timepieces were first unveiled to the public. From the early 1910s until 1993, Panerai watches were designed exclusively for the Royal Italian Navy, built to endure the most demanding missions under strict military secrecy. The 1993 debut marked Panerai’s transformation into a global name in luxury watchmaking.
The exhibition, held at the Florence flagship store from September 10 for two months, showcases rare archival materials, technical drawings, personal correspondence, patents, historical watches, and naval instruments, charting Panerai’s journey from classified supplier to international brand. It will later travel to the US and China.
Emmanuel Perrin, CEO of Panerai, stated: “We are proud to unveil ‘The Depths of Time’ exhibition, where connoisseurs and watch enthusiasts can discover the secrets of Panerai’s legendary past. Each innovation originally served a functional need, defining the Maison’s unmistakable hallmarks and paving the way for its recognition in the luxury watchmaking industry.”
To honor the anniversary, Panerai introduces the Luminor Marina Militare PAM05218, a modern reinterpretation of the historic Luminor ref. 5218-202/A, first presented to civilians in 1993. Featuring a 44mm DLC-coated steel case, the watch echoes the all-black aesthetic of the original PVD-treated model while enhancing durability with Diamond-Like Carbon coating.
Powered by the hand-wound P.6000 calibre with a three-day power reserve, the PAM05218 carries the “Marina Militare” inscription and revives the sought-after “non matching” dial-and-hands effect, achieved through caramel Super-LumiNova® and lighter-tone hands. Its closed screw-down caseback ensures water resistance up to 30 bar (~300 meters) and bears historical engravings.
Completing its vintage-inspired character, the watch comes with a golden-brown calf leather strap and an additional black rubber strap. Alessandro Ficarelli, Chief Marketing and Product Officer of Panerai, added: “With ‘The Depths of Time’ exhibition, we invite enthusiasts and newcomers alike to discover the captivating evolution of Panerai. The new Luminor Marina Militare PAM05218 celebrates a milestone: the unveiling of the secret and the birth of the Panerai legend.”
Available in boutiques from September 2025 on request, the PAM05218 is designed as a coveted collector’s piece.
