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The Laings Journal

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Inside Panerai -  Go Big or Go Home

Panerai's style is big and bold and instantly recognisable, with cushion shaped cases that are never smaller than 40mm. But this style is not simply art for art's sake, their unique look comes from functional and practical roots. Highly readable, with large dials and luminosity, Panerai created their designs to meet the demanding requirements of the Italian Navy.

Since the start of the 20th century Panerai have continually evolved their designs without straying far from their origins, perfecting rather than expanding. Today their range includes just 4 collections - the Radiomir, the Radiomir 1940, the Luminor and the Luminor 1950 - all distinctive for their readability and durability, and all resolutely Panerai.

This bold style is perfect for the larger gent, where something dainty just won't do, and celebrity fans of the brand include Sylvester Stallone and Chris Pratt. However thanks to the perfect finish and certain elegance of their designs, they are never overpowering. In our experience they are never bulky on the wrist. They may be considered a men's brand, but these watches are ideal for any woman looking for a statement piece, and female fans include supermodel Heidi Klum. The recent addition of coloured straps adds an element of fun and plenty of options for personalisation.

Below are a few of our favourite models. You can browse our collection online, but a Panerai should be worn to be truly appreciated. Visit us in store to see what we mean.

Radiomir California 3 Days Acciaio - 47mm

Our brand manager Jon's personal favourite, he loves its extra large size and simple, two handed dial. The unusual "California" dial design is based on one of Panerai's original prototypes and features a mixture of Roman and Arabic numerals. The simple and elegant design sits happily with a suit or jeans.

Luminor 1950 10 Days Ceramica

The 44mm case and trademarked crown protector of this striking watch are made from black ceramic, a highly technical material that's extremely resistant to corrosive agents and scratches. The style is still true to the Panerai canon, with its classic sandwich dial formed of two superimposed thin plates. If you want a watch that looks great and is also basically indestructible then this is the one for you.

Luminor Marina 8 Days Acciaio

Only recently released in the UK, it has a 44mm Luminor case and an impressive 8 day power reserve, inspired by the Angelus movements used in some military issue Panerai. The longer than usual power reserves meant frogmen wouldn’t have to wind their watches so often, which meant less chances for water to enter the movement through the crown.