In 1936, Panerai was commissioned by the Italian Navy to design a resistant watch for underwater missions. 20 years earlier, the company had developed and patented a radium-based fluorescent substance, which, thanks to its radiance, was registered under the name “Radiomir”. This made the brand, the perfect watch maunfacturer to develop the first military diving watch in watchmaking history.

Panerai Radiomir—the Success Story

The first prototypes of the Panerai Radiomir were produced under the same name as their luminous material. And the Panerai Radiomir models were—and still are—known for their large cushion-shaped steel cases, fluorescent numerals and markings, lugs soldered to the case and extra long, water-resistant bracelets. In order to further improve the watches' readability under water, Panerai introduced a special dial a few years later—the so-called “sandwich” dial, which consists of two superimposed discs with cut out markings and numerals in the upper disc to enhance the readability and luminosity of the radium substance below. Another innovation in the Radiomir's success story was the numbering of the dial with four large Arabic numerals at the cardinal points.

Panerai Radiomir—World-Class Manufacturing

Like every watch from Panerai, the Panerai Radiomir also showcases mechanical movements of the highest possible standard. The special features of these expertly developed movements are the long power reserve, which ranges from three to eight days, and a mechanism for stopping the balance wheel which sets the watch precisely. Some of the calibers used in the Panerai Radiomir have useful functions such as a date display, a GMT display, a day/night indication on the small seconds dial and a display of the remaining power reserve, too. In some versions, these mechanical masterpieces can be seen through the sapphire crystal case back inside cases that are water-resistant to at least ten bars.

Panerai Radiomir at Wempe

Like Wempe, Panerai also looks back on a long history influenced by nautical science. The paths of the two companies crossed for the first time in 1998. Since then, Wempe has offered a variety of Panerai watches, including selected models from the Radiomir line. To ensure that you can enjoy your watch for a long time after purchasing a watch, we offer comprehensive services for the care and maintenance of your watch in our showrooms. We are looking forward to your visit.