By PEAKLIFE
In horology, where tradition often meets innovation, Panerai has once again set a new standard by introducing the Submersible Elux LAB-ID which represents the world’s first in terms of materials and was eight years in the making. The new Submersible Elux LAB-ID PAM01800 marks a groundbreaking advancement in mechanical luminescence.
Panerai’s dedication to luminescence has long been a hallmark of their craftsmanship. The Submersible Elux LAB-ID PAM01800 represents the zenith of this journey, drawing inspiration from the historic Elux Panerai invention. This new model reflects eight years of meticulous research and development at Panerai Manufacturing in Neuchâtel. It is a testament to the brand’s ability to marry its storied past with cutting-edge technology, resulting in a fully mechanical movement that powers the light on demand—a true innovation in the watchmaking world.
A Limited Edition Watchmaking Marvel
The PAM01800 is a feat of engineering. Encased in a 49mm Ti-CeramitechTM case, a pioneering material that combines ceramized titanium with the durability and lightness that modern users demand, this timepiece is designed to withstand the rigours of the deep sea. It is 44% lighter than steel and boasts a fracture toughness ten times higher than traditional ceramic, making it both resilient and practical. The watch’s four-patent system, 50 bar (~500 metres) water resistance, and groundbreaking 30-minute power light feature showcase Panerai’s innovative spirit. This on-demand lighting, powered solely by mechanical energy storage, marks a significant advancement over traditional battery-powered illumination, providing continuous light for up to 30 minutes.
The Submersible Elux LAB-ID PAM01800 is a limited edition, with only 150 pieces available, underscoring its exclusivity and the precision involved in its creation. This careful curation ensures that each piece remains a rare and highly sought-after collector’s item, available at a rate of 50 pieces per year over three years.
A Legacy of Innovation
Panerai’s reputation for pioneering luminescence began with its renowned Radiomir and Luminor compounds. The historic Elux technology, patented on June 15, 1966, was a groundbreaking advancement in luminescence. Elux, short for ‘electroluminescence’ (electroluminescence), referred to panels that emitted a uniform luminous surface, available in various sizes and shapes. These panels were durable, shock and vibration-resistant, and exceptionally energy-efficient. Free from radioactive substances, they provided reliable and adjustable light, powered by both portable batteries and fixed AC supply.
Innovative Design Aspects Elevate Timepiece Utility
● The dial features a linear Power Light reserve indicator and a small seconds indicator at the 9 o’clock position.
● The patent-pending bezel light system illuminates the anticlockwise rotating bezel.
● Crown-protection bridge marked with “SUB LAB” instead of the historical REG TM mark.
● Indices and hour hand accented with green SuperLuminova® X2, ensuring 10% higher luminosity than SuperLuminova® X1 after 180 minutes in the dark.
● Blue-accented minute hands and bezel dots illuminated by SuperLuminova® X1.
● The watch is completed with a blue rubber strap and a second bi-material strap.
Continuing the Tradition in Naval Heritage
The Elux Panerai technology found a critical application with the Italian Navy, where dependable lighting was paramount. These panels enhanced the visibility of naval instruments, which is crucial for command centres and internal signalling boards on ships. They ensured clear readability in low-light conditions and facilitated safe helicopter landings on military ship decks during night operations or poor visibility.
With the Submersible Elux LAB-ID PAM01800, Panerai continues this legacy of innovation and excellence. This timepiece is more than a watch; it is a beacon of mechanical luminescence and a testament to Panerai’s unwavering commitment to pushing the boundaries of watchmaking technology.
In an industry where innovation is the heartbeat of progress, Panerai’s Submersible Elux LAB-ID stands as a shining example of what can be achieved when history and modernity converge. This remarkable timepiece not only honours Panerai’s storied past but also illuminates the future of horological innovation.
