Panerai Radiomir “Eilean” Watch Release

Anyone that knows me knows that Panerai holds a special place in my Horological heart. The watch that got me into the “game” of luxury watches. At the time I just liked the watch, knew nothing about the brand, and didnt even know it was Italian - despite having been to the spiritual home of the brand, Florence on a number of occasions. But now Panerai shows some unexpected Scottish roots in the new Panerai Radiomir “Eilean”.

 Limited to 499 pieces the Scottish/Italian link, which normally goes no further than the good old Scottish “Chippy”, traces its roots to a 1936 Yacht called Eileen (1936 also being the year the first prototype Panerai was supplied to the Italian Navy) designed by William Fife III and built, coincidentally, in Fife. The yacht eventually fell into disrepair, probably shortly after this video, (maybe the boat liked Wham better?!?) and was subsequently bought and restored by Panerai, starting in 2006. This 45mm Radiomir shows off this nautical heritage in buckets, teak deck effect dial, caseback “Eilean 1936” inscription and an unusual dragon emblem on side of the case - featured on the original yacht.

THE BASICS:

Brand: Panerai

Model: Ref PAM01243

Case Material: Stainless Steel

Case Size: 45mm

Water Resistance: 100m

Movement: P.6000

Movement Specs: Manual Wind, 19 Jewels, 21,600 vph, 3 days power reserve

Strap Options: 27mm with 22m buckle on leather.

Price & Availability: $8100 limited to 499 pieces

THE JUICE:

Panerai for me is all about wrist presence and other watch geeks. Wrist presence is clearly a big tick here. Although strictly a Luminor man myself, the Radiomir, and in particular this Radiomir can be a watch of exquisite beauty. I will bet that in the flesh the brown and tan tones of this watch look magnificent, This really does look like a watch you could sail your gin palace in, and when I say sail, I really mean get your crew to do all the work while you swan about on your luxury yacht with your luxury watch on.

The thing about Panerai watches is you can tell what the are from a distance. The best thing about wearing one is those very occasional nods of acknowledgement from other geeks you can engage with from a distance - without actually risking a conversation.

With social distancing etc still part of many peoples daily life, this watch is perfect. It can be seen, recognised and acknowledged with a knowing horological wink from your fellow socially awkward WIS - and all at least 1m apart.

Would I wear one? Yes.

 Would I buy one if money was no object? Yup, for sure this would be a great watch for a large collection and occasional wear - though I don’t find this watch to be a “one watch” kind of collectors piece.

Read more at Panerai.com