In the beginning was the Radiomir. This iconic watch created for the Italian navy embodies Officine Panerai’s military heritage. Its name comes from a rhodium-based powder developed and patented by Panerai to provide maximum visibility underwater for combat divers. The ten prototype watches originally made in 1936 led to the first production run in 1938.
While the model has evolved over the years to meet increasingly higher demands, particularly in terms of water resistance, readability and power reserve, some aesthetic aspects have passed down almost unchanged. Thus, the four Arabic numerals (3, 6, 9, 12) and their eight accompanying markers, the “sandwich”-type dial made of two layered plates that allow light to filter through, and the cushion-shaped case have all been present since 1938. To improve the watch’s water resistance, the 1940 version brought in an innovative case with integral lugs, and this new element can also be found on the 2018 models.
Back to the source
This year, the Radiomir is back with new dial colours to evoke the ocean depths. The latest shades are a nod to the watch’s origins, and its horological ancestors, which were specially designed for the Italian navy’s combat divers.
The new dial is made using an exclusive manufacturing process that creates a kaleidoscope of different shades of blue. The dark blue perimeter contrasts with the light blue centre, recalling the azure glints of the sea. The satin-brushed sunray finish is reminiscent of the sun’s light beating down through the waves.
On the caseback, the nautical theme continues on the sapphire crystal, which is decorated with an undulating pattern of ripples.
The Radiomir 1940 3 Days quintet
Unlike the original 1940 models, which displayed just hours and minutes, the Radiomir Mediterraneo watches have a few additional functions.
The Radiomir 1940 3 Days Automatic Acciaio (PAM00933), fitted with the automatic calibre P.4000 inside its 42 mm polished AISI 316L steel case, shows hours, minutes and small seconds.
This model also comes in a 45 mm red gold case. The Radiomir 1940 3 Days Automatic Oro Rosso (PAM00934) offers the same 72-hour power reserve (3 days), but it has a depth rating of 50 metres (compared with 100 m for the steel version).
The Radiomir 1940 3 Days Acciaio (PAM00932) offers the same functions as its siblings, but is driven by the manual P.3000 movement. It comes in an imposing 47 mm case made of polished AISI 316L steel.
For those who require more functions, the final two models display not just the hours, minutes and seconds, but also offer a date, second time zone, 24-hour indicator, power reserve gauge and a seconds reset function. While both these automatic timepieces share the same functions and come in a 45 mm polished AISI 316L steel case, they are not identical. The Radiomir 1940 3 Days GMT Automatic Acciaio (PAM00945) is fitted with the P.4001 calibre, while the Radiomir 1940 3 Days GMT Power Reserve Automatic Acciaio (PAM00946) is driven by the P.4002 movement. On the former, the power reserve is found on the back, while on the latter it’s visible on the dial.
Exclusive to Panerai boutiques
These Mediterraneo editions are available exclusively from Panerai’s own boutiques around the world. They come fitted with a blue alligator strap to complement the dial, and beige topstitching to match the luminescent markers. All the models are delivered in a lacquered blue cherry wood case, and come with an extra strap – blue rubber for the 45 mm and 47 mm, and blue fabric for the 42 mm version.
Pricing is as follows: CHF 9,000 for the Radiomir 1940 3 Days Acciaio (PAM00932), CHF 10,100 for the Radiomir 1940 3 Days Automatic Acciaio (PAM00933), CHF 11,400 for the Radiomir 1940 3 Days GMT Automatic Acciaio (PAM00945), CHF 11,800 for the Radiomir 1940 3 Days GMT Power Reserve Automatic Acciaio (PAM00946) and CHF 22,400 for the Radiomir 1940 3 Days Automatic Oro Rosso (PAM00934).
