Although bigger isn’t always better when it comes to watches, size does indeed matter. Known for their bold watch faces, oversized numerals, cushion cases, and distinct crown guard, Panerai is famed for its simple yet robust watches. While technically all watches can be unisex, Panerai has long been considered definitively on the men’s side of things. A quintessential ‘manly’ watch, it’s easy to be somewhat deterred – or alternatively enticed – by the colossal 44mm and 47mm dials that are standard with the Italian watch manufacturer.
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However, Panerai has now introduced a happy medium, with new additions to the Luminor Marina Quaranta collection. Comprising three references, each Panerai Luminor Marina Quaranta features a delightfully wearable 40mm case, with the releases substituting the 42mm variants in the collection. Each timepiece features the same distinct Panerai DNA (complete with statement crown guard), however, the smaller case size makes them more accessible to those who don’t possess hulking tree trunks for wrists.
The new additions to the Panerai Luminor Marina Quaranta collection come in three different dial colours; sunburst blue, white, and black. Each features the same composition, with a luminous disk under the dial allowing the numerals and hour indices to glow in the dark. The three hours, minutes, and seconds hands are luminous, with a running seconds subdial positioned at 9 o’clock. A date complication is set at 3 o’clock, however, unlike other Luminor references, this is not magnified by a cyclops lens.
The Panerai Luminor Marina Quaranta timepieces are powered by an automatic Panerai calibre P.900, which comes with a 72-hour power reserve. Each watch comes with an alligator leather strap – blue for the sunburst dial and black for the black and white dials – which is equipped with a quick-release system. Interchangeable flexible rubber straps are also on their way.
The new trio of Luminor Marina Quaranta references represent a reconception of the traditional manly men’s watch, retaining the heritage design and bold aesthetic Panerai is known for while introducing the timepieces to a subset who may not have previously considered them due to their larger size.
The Luminor Marina Quaranta references start at $9900 AUD ($7100 USD) and are available on the Panerai webstore.
Words by John Deckard
