Through the years, timepieces have evolved its function to further captivate the upper class. From merely showing the time, it’s grown to also tell the date, showcase different time zones at once, and even act as a compass for many. It seems that there’s no limit to what a watch can tell its wearer, and for 2018, the innovation is amped up even further by Italian luxury horology brand Panerai. Their new L’astronomo Luminor 1850 PAM920 watch also shows the movement of the moon.
Release Date and Price
Release date: January 2018
Price when reviewed: US$230,000.00
At the world-renowned watch show SIHH 2018 last January, this new Luminor piece from Panerai made its debut. The model was quite a shock for it was relatively different from other watches under the Italian brand’s Luminor collection. With a retail price of $230,000, this new product is one of Panerai’s most expensive offerings.
Specifications
- Diameter: 50mm
- Movement: Manual
- Water Resistant: 100 meters
- Power Reserve: 4 days
- Frequency: 3 Hz
- Strap: Brown alligator or black buffalo skins
- Buckle: Folding
Pros
Inspired by the famous inventor Galileo Galilei, and created as a sequel to the original L’Astronomo model, the watch featured the famous tourbillon with a beautiful time display. Panerai created the model in time for the Italian genius’ 400th birthday. The moon phase display at the back of the dial shows what time of the day it is according to the positioning of the moon, which can depend on the wearer’s location. It’s a new concept with regards to luxury timepieces, but an interesting one at that which makes for an exciting new addition for any watch collector.
Cons
Similarly to a million other new models from premier watch brands, Panerai’s new L’Astronomo Luminor model pales in terms of practicality. As exciting as incorporating a new method of telling the time, it may not be as effective nor significant for the modern gentleman who is constantly on-the-go. This watch is more for the traveling nomad who seeks adventure, but only a few of them really focus on getting luxury timepieces for their travel gear. Business-wise, Panerai might find it difficult to pinpoint the right consumer base to target this new and special item on.
Image Credits: Hodinkee (feature image), A Blog To Watch, Watchonista (article images)
