VIP customers of the Italian luxury brand entered an underwater abyss where danger lurks at every turn
The sea has always had special meaning to Panerai, a brand borne from the diving and maritime world. All early Panerai watches were survival instruments, and that was what the brand wanted to highlight at its very first Panerai Hub. Beginning in Shanghai for the Asian region, Panerai Hub will travel to Europe next, followed by the Americas over the next few months.
A Fresh New Concept
Introduced by CEO Jean-Marc Pontroué and team, Panerai Hub is where the essence of the brand’s products come to life. An immersive experience like no other, it is the spirit of Panerai writ large. Then at the centre of it all, Panerai’s latest timepieces bask in the spotlight.
Panerai’s 2019 novelties were all on exhibit at the Hub. But there were three new models launched that made us particularly excited. Chief of them all was undoubtedly the Luminor Tourbillon GMT Lo Scienziato.
Bold New Launches
Not a completely unfamiliar timepiece, the specific reference PAM768 now comes dressed in green livery.
It weighs a record 18g but PAM768 is one of the most physically robust tourbillon watches on the market, and is scratch-proof, shock-proof and hypoallergenic to boot. The lightness is not only felt but seen; you can totally see how light the watch is because of the openworked dial with a grille style main plate. Other new models also launched include the stainless steel Luminor Marina in two sizes, 42mm and 44mm, both paired with blue sandwich dials and steel bracelets. The latter doesn’t look particularly ergonomic but in reality does wrap nice and snug around the wrist.
On a separate note, the PAM1028 and PAM1058 are probably among the most work-appropriate Panerai watches you’ll find.