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The Panerai Luminor: A Deep Dive

In 1949, Panerai filed for another patent to replace their original Radiomir radium-based powder with a tritium-based powder called, of course, Luminor. Originally patented in 1955, as the demands from the Italian Navy continued to evolve, the Panerai Luminor rose to the occasion. Boasting a 200m water-resistance, a beefed-up Radiomir case, and an added signature crown guard, this collection was quite an impressive feat at the time and checked all of the Navy’s boxes. Its deep water-resistance and improved luminescent paint made this watch an ideal companion to the Italian Frogman Commandos—some models even have “Marina Militare” written on the dial as a homage to their Italian heritage. Today, new iterations and adaptations of the Luminor pieces are available, including the iconic Marina, Marina 1950, and Base models. Additionally, to mark the 70th anniversary of this remarkable suite, Panerai released a new lineup of Luminors, each paying tribute to the collection’s legacy while also forging ahead, leveraging new high-tech materials like Goldtech and Fibratech. Interested in learning more about the brand? Read this article detailing Panerai’s history, or uncover the material science behind emerging elements like carbon, bronze, and more.

Purchasing a Pre-Owned Panerai Luminor

Shopping the pre-owned market is the best way to add a Luminor to your collection. With the current secondary market prices, pre-owned is certainly the most cost-effective way to shop. Plus, half of the fun of owning a Panerais is swapping different straps onto the watch. The casual and simple nature of the Luminor lends itself to looking great on a wide variety of strap options—check out this insider’s guide to Panerai straps for more styling tips. Interested in other collections from the brand? Browse our pre-owned suite of Radiomir 1940s, Luminor 1950s, and Submersibles as well.

Discover Remarkable Luminor Models

The Luminor is unlike every other dive watchon the market with its unique design that stands out among all its peers. Similar to its predecessor, the Luminor distinguishes itself from the prevalent Submariner-style formula of the popular “dive-style” watch. The Luminor grew in popularity thanks to the renowned actor Sylvestor Stalone. He donned a Luminor in his movie, “Daylight,” which helped put Panerai in the minds of watch collectors of the western world. Check out a number of the collection’s most compelling references.

  • Luminor PAM 112

    Undoubtedly, the PAM 112 captures the best of the old “Officine.” Featuring a sandwich dial, torch-like nighttime luminescence, 44mm steel case, and an iconic device protecting the crown, it’s no wonder why so many collectors clamor to own one. Learn more about the model when you read this expert review, “It’s All About The ‘Base’.”

  • Luminor Base PAM 915

    Featuring a robust 44mm stainless steel case, a striking black dial, and a luxe black leather strap, the Luminor ref. PAM00915 can’t be missed. This sleek statement also boasts hours, minutes, and small seconds.

  • Luminor Marina PAM 366 “Fu”

    In 2010, Panerai honored its Chinese-language “Paneristi” with a special tribute—the handsome Marina PAM 366. It’s another 44mm timepiece and flaunts an auspicious symbol on the classic sandwich dial. On an interesting note, “Fu” is a broad term used in Chinese culture to describe a life well-lived, a fortunate existence, and good times to come. Uncover more about this unique piece when you read the article, “Puts the ‘Fu’ Back in ‘Fun’.”

  • Luminor Base Logo PAM 000

    Simple yet stunning and compelling, the ref. PAM00000 is a manual-wind watch pulled together by a 44mm stainless steel case, offering wearers only the hours and minutes—nothing more, and certainly nothing less. Its black dial and black rubber strap are just timeless.

  • Luminor Marina 1950 3 Days PAM 1312

    For a more comprehensive timepiece that offers hours, minutes, small seconds, and date, this ref. PAM01312can’t be beat. The world of dress watches and military pieces collide to create this rugged self-winding automatic watch, featuring a 44mm stainless steel case and black dial.

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    Frequently Asked Questions About the Panerai Luminor

    How do you wind a Panerai Luminor Marina Automatic?

    Although these pieces are automatic, you may manually wind them if they run down. To do this, simply unlock the crown. In its first position flush with the case, turn the crown clockwise for 20 to 30 turns in order to start the movement.

    How do you set a Panerai Luminor GMT?

    To set a Panerai Luminor GMT, simply unlock the crown, and in the first position flush to the case, turn the crown clockwise. Once the watch is fully wound, you will feel some resistance when trying to wind any further. At this point, stop turning the crown. First, set the GMT time in the outermost position and then set the local time in the intermediate position—the hour hand moves independently and also changes the date.

    How much is a Panerai Luminor?

    Like any pre-owned watch model, prices vary for a Panerai Luminor based on a variety of factors like condition, demand, exclusivity, and official documentation. Currently, our inventory of Luminor watches range in price from $5,250 to $22,950. Most mid-range models cost between $7,000 and $10,000.

    Luminor Pricing Guide