The Panerai Radiomir is one of the best-known diving watches in the world. This also has to do with Panerai's special company history. Officine Panerai did not manufacture any commercial watches until 1993, but instead exclusively produced military watches, despite the company's long history. An important part of this history is the Panerai Radiomir, which was presented as early as 1936 and subsequently went into series production as a diver's watch. The customer was the Royal Italian Navy, which wanted a special watch with versatile features.
The special history of the Panerai Radiomir
In the field of luxury watches, Panerai differs from the classic companies in this segment due to its relatively recent history in the commercial sector. It was not until 1993 that Officine Panerai decided to manufacture for the commercial market, making the watches accessible to every connoisseur. The transition was seamless, as Officine Panerai's watches had already met the highest standards beforehand.
The Panerai Radiomir, which was developed as a special order for the Italian military and presented as a prototype in 1936, is a prime example of this. Three years later, the model had finally proved its worth and went into series production. The screw-down winding crown and the screw-down case back ensured a high level of water resistance, which was a fundamental feature for diving watches. In addition, the Panerai Radiomir was fitted with luminous hands that ensured good legibility. The mixture of zinc sulphate, mesothorium and radium bromide was patented as ‘Radiomir’ and gave this special watch its name. It was only later that it became known that the radium used was harmful to health due to its radioactivity and the watch was therefore subject to corresponding regulations to ensure safety.
Design of the Panerai Radiomir
Like the Luminor, the Panerai Radiomir also became iconic in watch history due to its appearance. The unmistakable shape, also known as the ‘cushion shape’, and the distinctive onion crown are important visual features that have made this watch highly recognisable. In terms of size, the watch stands out from the crowd at 42 mm to 49 mm, as wearing such large watches is not a matter of course. The materials used include stainless steel, rose gold and ceramic.
There is now a wide variety of colours on the market. Interesting variants are available with a black and brown dial, in dark blue and in white. Matching bracelets ensure a harmonious overall look for the Panerai Radiomir.
Interesting models of the Panerai Radiomir
Thanks to the eventful history of the luxury watch, there is now an extensive selection of different models. More recent editions such as the Radiomir Base Logo 3 Days with a stainless steel case are just as appealing as the Radiomir Eilean and its sister model, the Radiomir Venti. The Radiomir Black Seal Logo, which was developed in the style of the legendary elite divers, is very well known. It is also available with a ceramic case. One speciality is the Radiomir 1940 Ceramica, which enjoys cult status.
Price of the Panerai Radiomir
Most Panerai Radiomir models fall within a price range of between €4,000 and €6,000. Of course, there are also watches that can cost significantly more. The vintage editions from the early years in particular are invaluable. For a Radiomir GMT Power Reserve or a Radiomir Titanium, you need to invest almost 10,000 euros. Special models such as a Radiomir 10 Days GMT in rose gold and 45 mm sometimes cost over €30,000.
