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Everything You Need To Know Before You Sell Your Panerai

UPDATED APRIL 2024

Established in 1860, Panerai has grown to be a substantial force in the horological world, fusing incredible innovation with style and precision.

Panerai have influenced the course of watchmaking significantly, popularising watch lume through their patent for Radiomir in 1916. Recently, they created the Panerai Lab-ID Luminor 1950 Carbotech, released at SIHH in 2017.

The calibre in this model has a guaranteed run of 50 years before needing to be serviced. This goes to show the technical prowess, innovation and skill involved in every aspect of Panerai’s production process.

As you are reading this article, we can assume that you have made the tough decision to sell your Panerai watch. We can't ease the heartbreak, Timelords but we can offer you a hassle free solution to selling your watch.

Necessary Documentation for Panerai Watches

It is important that you have your papers handy when it comes to you trying to sell your Panerai watch. Don't get us wrong, you could feasibly sell your Panerai without any relevant documentation, it is much more preferred by all parties if you have access to them. As is the case with most things, if you have proper certification, box and corresponding papers, the value of the watch will most likely increase.

Panerai Submersible - Source - Panerai

It’s important to remember that an official Certificate of Authenticity can only be released by Panerai. You can't buy one on the internet and claim your watch is good to go.

It may be worth scanning through your cupboards and drawers for those precious service records, warranty papers or sales receipts before you contact us. This will constitute evidence for any change that has happened to the watch such as repairs, cleaning or replacement of parts.

Luckily, Panerai are pretty good for guarantees as they give you 24 months starting from the date of purchase against any defects. This is only on the proviso that the warranty card is signed by an authorised dealer.

From our own experience, the luxury watch retailers we work with appreciate original parts so if anything has been altered or changed, it's best if you let us know early on. If you want to discuss the sale of your Panerai watch, don’t hesitate to get in touch with Chrono Hunter.

Put Your Panerai In The Best Light Possible

Panerai watches should be photographed with the same level of respect as anything else. You need to make your watch's beauty shine through the photo. But not too much as no one wants overkill on the glare

Panerai Luminor Due Luna Goldtech - Source - Panerai

For example, the Luminor Due Luna Goldtech is crafted out of Panerai’s own combination of 18 carat gold. Combined with copper and platinum, the watch is revealed with a beautiful golden hue. It would be a shame if its aura was dimmed or made blurry, wouldn't you say?

As long as you nail the exposure of the photo, you don't need to fret about anything else. We aren't asking for National Geographic entries after all.

Still feel a little unsure about how to take photos? A quick Google search for a tutorial on how to take a photo competently should set you right. Find a well-lit spot that doesn't run the risk of the buyer being blinded and you are good to go! This will certainly help you sell your Panerai swiftly.

The Popularity Of Panerai Watches

Since 1860, Panerai have worked tirelessly to create the ‘Paneristi’ community that is still strong today. First founded in 2000, the Panerai collector community appeared before Wikipedia and expanded to being one of the largest watch enthusiast forums around.

However, it's not just the common man that's so keen about these models. Celebrities are often looked upon as the leaders of culture and fashion. For them to adorn a Panerai is enough evidence of the popularity Panerai has garnered.

Panerai Radiomir L’Egiziano - Source - Willard Post

From The Terminator himself Arnold Schwarzenegger to former WWE star and now actor Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson, Panerai’s clientele is as established as its history.

Arnold Schwarzenegger has previously sported the Panerai Radiomir L’Egiziano. From the iconic Radiomir collection, the collection introduced lumination in 1916 which was Panerai’s first official patent. The Egiziano follows suit and is a limited edition version of The Radiomir collection. At 60mm, it's perfect for a man with wrists the size of tree trunks.

In order to buy a Panerai Egiziano, you must contact a concierge via their website at the time of writing.

Panerai Luminor Submersible - Source - Oracle Time

Speaking of obscenely large wrists, Dwayne Johnson has also worn many Panerai models, including the Panerai Luminor 1950 GMT, Panerai Luminor Submersible and the sizable Panerai Radiomir 1940 10 Days GMT Automatic ORO Rosso. You’ll need to have oversized wrists if you want to buy a Panerai like this. Measuring 45mm, it certainly suits the bulkier gentleman and is extremely rare with only 150 pieces released.

Panerai Luminor Marina 8 Day - Source - Rubber B

For the sleeker man, like actor Orlando Bloom, the Panerai Luminor Marina 8 Days Oro Rosso is a fine alternative. Measuring 44mm in diameter, it offers 300m water resistance and a fantastic 8 day power reserve.

Do Panerai Watches Hold Their Value?

Panerai are notorious for holding their value. This is primarily due to the brand excelling in innovation and their clientbase is indicative of this. The model is also a significant factor when it comes to the value of your watch. The old rule follows that if a model is rare or scarce, its value has a higher chance of growing after purchase.

Panerai Slytech - Source - Rubber B

For example, Panerai hit a double whammy when they released the Panerai Slytech Watch. Worn by Sylvester Stallone in the 1997 movie ‘Daylight’, only 95 pieces were released meaning that the model is both rare and has a celeb allure making it sought after.

This is a recipe for a boom in value due to the watch now being extremely exclusive. While I can't promise you will look like Rambo with muscles to boot, I can promise you that the value will have drastically increased when you go to sell your Panerai Slytech.

Panerai doesn't need to just rely on celebrities to increase their models' value. For example, in 2002, Panerai released the limited edition Panerai Luminor Marina Militare ‘Left Hand’ which capped at 1000 models produced.

With the crown on the left hand side and the inscription of ‘Marina Militare’ on the dial, it harks to the Italian divers in WW2. An incredible slice of history no doubt warrants a significant price tag, especially due to its limited number and unorthodox left hand design.

It would appear that the Luminor takes the horological prize for most popular Panerai model. For you watch fiends who are lucky enough to own one, now may be probably the time to sell your Panerai Luminor. This goes to show that you don't need to be downtrodden when you sell your Panerai. It has every chance of retaining and in some cases increasing in value past its retail price.

What Are The Best Platforms To Sell My Panerai Watch?

There are a number of routes you could take when you want to sell your Panerai watch.

While it's nice having so many options, it can easily become overwhelming when you are just trying to sell your Panerai. You could try consigning with an auction house. The only issue is that if your watch is not in high demand, you may not get the price you were hoping for nor the interest.

Another alternative is to use online platforms which you can access from the comfort of your phone or laptop. There are many sites out there which you can sell your watch with. One highly credible example is Chrono Hunter, the quickest and hassle free way to sell your watch in no time at all. There are other options of course.

For example, one that's probably familiar to 99% of the population is ebay. Ebay is fantastic for the majority of things buying and selling wise. However, it does have its pitfalls. You could encounter a problem buyer who could waste your precious time haggling but never buying. Or you could end up sending the watch and receiving no payment…for shame!

It's a real kick in the teeth when you just want to sell your Panerai.

9 Reasons You Should Sell Your Panerai Via Chrono Hunter.

1. Knowledgeable Team Members

We ensure that all of our team members are fully briefed and knowledgeable on the latest industry trends and the value of each watch brand.

Furthermore, we cover all manner of watches, be it new, second hand and pre-owned Panerai watches, ensuring we understand the brand like no other. Offering accurate valuations, you can be assured of no raw deals or inaccurate valuations when you sell your Panerai through Chrono Hunter.

2. Exceptionally Quick Transaction

When you sell your Panerai via our platform, it is meaningless if you don’t receive quick payment. Once a full inspection of your watch has been conducted with no negative faults or issues (this may affect achieving the best prices paid), receive money in a matter of days in your bank account.

3. Range Of Offers

We ensure that you receive only the top prices paid for your Panerai from our extensive network of retailers that we have procured. This means you have the opportunity to examine numerous offers according to true market conditions from our carefully curated list of dealers, putting you in total control of the sale.

4. Dedicated App

Chrono Hunter has developed a dedicated app that is available across both Apple and Android devices. Once your posting is live, keep abreast of live offers from our procured list of retailers via our distinctive app. Just choose the offer that’s right for you and conclude the sale directly with the retailer.

5. Established Relationships With Luxury Retailers

We have handpicked a number of luxury retailers and authorised dealers in our now-established ranks. We’ve worked on these longstanding relationships with a plethora of luxury watch retailers to the point that we can thoroughly trust them entirely and ensure only the best process and sale.

6. Avoid Pitfalls Of Selling Your Panerai Independently Or Open Marketplaces

Open marketplaces carry a number of risks. For example, when you try to sell your Panerai, you may encounter:

Fake offers, luring you in and seeking to take your valuable watch as opposed to buying it
Deals that are too good to be true meaning you get an offer much lower and hence being unable to achieve the best possible price.
Any potential for fraud from an unregulated body or random members of the public.

Chrono Hunter ensures the moment it is time to sell your Panerai, your watch remains in the reliable hands of our exclusive network of luxury retailers. We only deal with certified and highly experienced dealers, ensuring that throughout the entire sales process, the transaction is transparent and easy to understand.

7. We Work With Every Kind Of Seller

We cover a range of sellers such as experienced traders, first time customers and those interested in developing their portfolios by selling and buying a more expensive piece.

So whether it is your first transaction or you have a vast selling history, Chrono Hunter can cater to your needs and ensure you get an exceptional deal. Our established team understands that the horological marketplace requires different kinds of service for each customer. Therefore, our impressive Trustpilot score and array of 5 star reviews fully supports that we can deal with every type of customer.

8. Security Is Essential To Our Business

Security is at the heart of what makes Chrono Hunter tick.

We thoroughly respect the importance your Panerai may hold. For example, you may own an heirloom or a personal timepiece that’s been in your family for generations.

Therefore, we have taken every measure and precaution to ensure you deal in complete security. By only dealing with the most experienced retailers, we keep your luxury watches within our network and share your details with no one else.

9. Take Full Control Of The Sale

Chrono Hunter ensures that for all the offers you receive, you get the final say in which one you wish to go with. This is because our offers are non-obligation with no exceptions made. Step back at any time and say no to the deals if you do not feel comfortable moving forwards with the sale.

However, you may find that if you do not accept any of the offers and wait for a better price, this may not be the case. This is down to current market conditions where the prices may drop. As a result, it's always suggested you accept offers sooner rather than later.

Which Panerai Watches Can I Sell Via Chrono Hunter?

If you want to sell your Panerai quickly, you can thanks to our one of a kind platform. This includes dealing with clients who are interested in every type of Panerai watch from the legendary Luminor to the dive-inspired Submersible.

Panerai Luminor

The Luminor range from Panerai could be considered their most iconic line.

It has a number of highly distinguishable characteristics such as a large crown protector and a cushion shaped case which gives these watches added durability and pristine reliability.

Source - Panerai

Ranging from 38mm to 47mm case diameters which cover each Luminor line such as Marina, Due or Base, the watches are available in a number of materials such as steel, titanium or bronze.

Plunging to depths of 300 metres, the impressive water resistance on these watches also have a number of calibres. These include the in-house P.9000 and P.9100 that have solid as a rock power reserves.

If you are looking to sell your Panerai watch, we recommend you contact our knowledgeable team at Chrono Hunter. We have developed a phenomenal level of knowledge of the best references for second hand or pre-owned Panerai watches.

Therefore, opting to sell a Panerai with Chrono Hunter guarantees a secure and noteworthy customer experience, all under the watchful eye of our dedicated team of experts.

Panerai Radiomir

The Radiomir from Panerai is a nod to the original 1930s prototypes from the brand. The dials are kept highly minimalist, while the lugs are quite slender. The watches' purpose of being supplied to the Italian Navy is retained magnificently in the rugged and vintage style of the design codes.

Source - Panerai

The Radiomir’s legacy ties in with the frogmen commandos who worked in covert operations. Therefore, the watches needed to be luminescent which resulted in them using radium-based luminescent paint, used to ensure visibility underwater. And this was long before the Rolex Deepsea Challenge.

So, how do I sell a Panerai? For those seeking to sell a Panerai Radiomir for the best prices possible and with the best team in the marketplace, entrust our experts at Chrono Hunter with your sale. We have rigorous knowledge on the most popular references and can ensure you experience the smoothest transaction with the best prices paid.

Panerai Luminor Marina

The Luminor Marina developed from the legendary Luminor to offer a sportier and more durable variant.

The signature case shape and secure crown protector is retained, but there are more modern features such as exhibition casebacks which makes the Marina so elegant and refined.

Source - Panerai

The models benefit from a number of complications such as chronographs, time-only references and yacht-timers for those more suited to the sea. Scarce models like the Luminor Marina 1950 Carbotech are excellent watches due to their colossal 8 day power reserve and highly modernised carbon case.

Whether you own brand new watches, vintage or used, we suggest you use Chrono Hunter to sell your Panerai quickly. Our team of experts is alert to the latest trends, current market conditions and popular references, achieving the best possible price for your sale.

Alongside being able to appreciate the value of your Panerai watch, our live portal ensures you are continually in contact with our team about any queries, while connecting you with our exclusive network of the best luxury retailers.

Panerai Luminor Regatta

Forget Henley Regatta.

The Luminor Regatta is specialised for those who are interested in setting sail in their gorgeous schooner. Featuring a distinctive Regatta countdown function which can be altered via the watches crown, this allows racers to countdown the starting time to a yacht race. How fancy.

Source - Panerai

One model that has received plenty of acclaim from the public is the tenacious Oracle Team USA model. Fitted into a high-powered 44mm steel case, the watches are a physical ode to the triumphant international team through engraved nautical references.

Naturally, it’s fitted with the sublime Regatta chronograph complication which ensures you start right on time.

The Luminor Regatta is one of the brand's rarer lines due to the low production rates, in comparison with the Submersible or Radiomir. This is usually more in demand than tickets to Wrestlemania as it is so exclusive and rarely seen in public.

If you have to sell a Panerai Luminor Regatta, it’s only right you entrust Chrono Hunter to offer the best possible prices and sale via our one of a kind platform. All we require is that you visit our website, fill in the form and instantly receive multiple offers for your watch.

Furthermore, you will conduct your transaction within a highly safe and secure environment, ensuring the sale is finally completed with the best luxury watch retailers in the marketplace.

Panerai Submersible

The Submersible line is specifically made for those committed to the diving world. The Submersible capably offers a stonking 1000 metres of water resistance which is an impressive feat among sea-faring gentlemen.

Source - Panerai

The watches follow the naval instrument legacy of the brand and carry these codes into the Submersible line. Fitted with a sandwich dial to ensure water resistance and given a highly luminescent dial, this beauty is the perfect conversation starter.

Panerai includes extremely modern materials such as ceramic and titanium cases alongside carbon which delivers a lightweight experience for the wearer alongside premium levels of durability.

The Submersible models perfectly blend the rugged aesthetics of the classic pieces with modern materials and regular updates. As one of the best dive watch lines in the horological world, the Submersible has quickly developed into an in demand line for ravenous horophiles who appreciate the best luxury watchmakers.

Deciding the best time to sell your Panerai Submersible may be a big question for you. We understand the significance of such a high end transaction. So why not speak to Chrono Hunter in order to allow them to ascertain the potential value of your watch and what you can expect to receive in its current condition.

Choose from a multitude of offers through our carefully curated selection of the top luxury retailers and vetted authorised dealers. Vying for your business, our retailers must put their best foot forward to provide the best prices paid when it’s time to sell your Panerai.

Choosing to sell your Panerai has never been easier through Chrono Hunter!

Panerai Quaranta

The design of the Quaranta is characterised by its bold and distinctive aesthetic. The iconic cushion-shaped case, oversized numerals, and luminous hands pay homage to Panerai's military roots, while the use of high-quality materials such as stainless steel or titanium adds a touch of contemporary luxury.

Released in 2020, the fresh-faced line opts for 40mm cases which directly opposes the oversized design Panerai is renowned for.

Source - Panerai

Furthermore, the Panerai Quaranta offers a range of functionalities tailored to the needs of modern adventurers. From water resistance to impressive power reserves, each timepiece is built to withstand the rigours of everyday wear and more.

Beyond its technical prowess, the Quaranta is a symbol of absolute style and sophistication. Whether paired with a casual ensemble or a formal suit, this timepiece effortlessly elevates any look, making a statement of understated luxury and refinement.

A few classic design elements remain including the iconic crown guards. Capable of reaching a 5 day power reserve and a substantial water resistance as guaranteed by the sandwich dial, the watches have elements of luxury such a polished steel finish as well as a diamond set bezel.

The heritage of the brand is retained but updated with contemporary aesthetics and features. This fairly new line has the potential to become Panerai’s most attractive collection, especially since durability is retained, but refreshed with a smaller case that's more accessible..

If you wish to sell your Panerai Quantara but don’t know where to go, we suggest you choose Chrono Hunter for the best prices paid. Connect with the best retailers around via our real time portal and conclude the sale directly with one of our approved AD’s or luxury retailers in the safest manner.

Don’t waste time with inexperienced sellers or third party marketplaces with valuations too good to be true. Select Chrono Hunter and see why we are the number one source to sell your Panerai fast.

Are Panerai Watches Respected?

Yes, Panerai watches are regarded due to their continuous work on developing and making their watches desirable, utilising precious materials and technical prowess.

1950 Carbotech - Source - Panerai

Panerai has expanded as a brand and worked with other titans of the horological industry like Rolex. During the 1930s, the pair saddled up to produce watches like the Luminor 6152/1 which has now become a highly desired collectible novelty.

Since then, Panerai have continued to evolve and create timepieces which were influential or inspired by their past. The Luminor Marina Militare ‘Left Hand’ is capped at just 1000 pieces and features the crown on the left hand side. This relates to the Italian naval divers in WW2 who similarly had the crown on the left.

Of course, a brand is respected if they become adopted by a fleet of well known celebs. The Slytech, as worn by Sylvester Stallone in the 1997 Daylight film, was capped at just 95 pieces. Yet, its value has exponentially grown on the secondary market. And as we all know, grail watches always sell!

Panerai’s commitment to producing excellent timepieces and innovative designs are strong indicators to being attractive and respected by the public. Innovative you say? The Lab-ID Luminor 1950 Carbotech features the Calibre P.3001/C which guarantees 50 years of quality before requiring a service.

Panerai’s innovation of Radium, which was the first glimpse of luminescence on a watch in 1916, was and remains a remarkable feat of horological engineering. Adorned by Dwayne Johnson, Orlando Bloom and Sylvester Stallone, the brand is a must have for many looking to buy a Panerai with clout.

Is Panerai Better Than IWC?

As a rule of thumb, both Panerai and IWC are top luxury brands and it’s entirely up to you in terms of what style you are looking for. Therefore, it’s a tie between these two brands.

While Panerai tends to yield a better resale value, others may look to IWC’s legendary Mark lines for the ultimate heritage watch. Generally, Panerai will lose around 15-50% of their value which is similar to not only IWC, but other luxury brands like Breitling, Cartier and Zenith.

While they reside in the majority, it’s very few brands like Audemars Piguet, Patek Philippe, Vacheron Constantin and Rolex that will yield high values upon resale. They are incredibly popular and therefore have their watches always sought after. Supply and demand, people. It’s one of the most influential principles!

Radiomir - Source - Panerai

Panerai was founded in 1890 wherein they soon forged a partnership with the Italian Navy and introduced the iconic Radiomir luminescent. This would revolutionise the horological world in 1936. Panerai have worked with tremendous brands like Ferrari to produce phenomenal models like the Scuderia and the Grandturismo.

IWC’s work has a direct link with aviation, including the British Air Force which saw the release of the Mark XI which was released in 1948. IWC have worked for racing brands like Porsche, resulting in one of the first ever titanium chronographs, the Porsche Design Chronograph.

Mark XI - Source - Fellows Auctioneers

Created in 1868, IWC was a little earlier to the watch game than Panerai. Founded in Switzerland, the home of horology, this is in contrast to Panerai’s Italian roots (Florence to be exact). IWC’s models are perhaps just as innovative as Panerai.

Taken over by the Vendôme Group in 1997 which soon became Richemont, Panerai’s position enabled them to kickstart the trend of oversized watches, especially since they were working alongside other brands like Jaeger-LeCoultre, Cartier and IWC themselves!

Panerai’s enduring popularity has resulted in the first ever fan group for watches, The so-called Paneristi which has become as popularised as Taylor Swift represents the demand and enthusiasm behind the brand. IWC’s status as the only watch manufacturer in eastern Switzerland is a fun fact.

However, it doesn’t capture the horological hearts of the avid Paneristi!

The Da Vinci line became the first to boast a Grande Complication and even released the Ingenieur which is anti-magnetic and created by the Roy Lichstenstein of luxury watches Gerald Genta. Even the GST Deep One was revolutionary as the first dive watch to present a mechanical depth gauge.

Overall, both IWC and Panerai are significant achievers in the horological world and can offer phenomenal watches for special occasions. They both are attractive to horophiles due to their enduring designs and technical skills.

To decide between them is an almost impossible feat, especially since they both share the same Richemont stable!

How Often Should A Panerai Be Serviced?

It’s estimated that Panerai watches should be maintained every two to three years. You should keep it ticking along with a full service every four to five years.

Can I Swim With My Panerai Luminor?

In a word, no. Technically, Panerai Luminor watches are not suitable for swimming.

It’s usually the Submersible line that is the best for those kinds of nautical pursuits. The Panerai Luminor has a 30 to 50 metres water resistance which is not good enough for even a light dip. We recommend at least 100 metres water resistance for absolute security.

What Panerai Did Sylvester Stallone Wear?

Sylvester Stallone opted for the beautiful Luminor 5218-201/a.

Worn during the movie Daylight in 1996, the watch had an estimated value of between £31,000 and £63,000. However, this later went up at a Philipps auction in 2020 with its original mahogany box and two additional Panerai straps.

Source - Panerai

For Stallone fans, the watch comes with a handwritten note from Rambo himself, explaining the watch and accompanied by a studio-issued lobby card from the film set. And what did it fetch I hear you ask? Around a cool £170,000. Guess you have to roll with the punches. And as Rocky Balboa proclaimed;

"It ain't about how hard ya hit. It's about how hard you can get hit and keep moving forward."

Is Panerai A Dress Watch?

Absolutely.

Panerai can still be considered a dress watch… if you locate the right lines and models. For example, classic lines like the Submersible and Radiomir are noted for being large and thick which simply wouldn’t work with a three piece suit.

PAM01437 - Source - Panerai

However, Panerai have started to up their game. The release of the ultimate collection, The Quaranta in 2020 represented the introduction of smaller cases which enabled these watches to be slipped under shirt cuffs effortlessly.

We recommend the Radiomir Quaranta PAM01437 which is 40mm of yellow gold, accompanied by a gorgeous colour in the form of a green dial.

This is the case when we examine the Luminor Due line. As they only yield a water resistance of around 30 metres, they are no good for the action man, but they may do the trick for gents looking to evolve their dress novelty lineup.

This is especially the case since there are models like the PAM00676 which come in a more elegant rose gold.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is My Panerai Worth?

The value of your Panerai is dependent on a number of different factors, including:

Current Market Conditions
Watch Condition
Model Number
Provenance
Desirability
Rarity
Age

It’s typically understood that luxury watches will yield some form of value. However, the most likely models to hold value upon resale are those that are vintage or rare. Of course, this pertains to supply and demand levels, specifically a lower level of supply naturally raising the level of demand.

Panerai watches have gone from a workshop in Florence to becoming one of the most prominent top luxury brands in the world. Manufacturing timepieces for industries like the Italian Navy, their diving prowess cannot be understated for their most valued models.

Ranging from dive watches like the Panerai Luminor Submersible 1950 BMG Tech-Automatic, they even cover GMT timepieces like the 47mm skeletonised Panerai Luminor Tourbillon GMT. Capped at just 100 pieces, this titanium model is 3D created by using Direct Metal Laser Sintering which showcases Panerai’s craftsmanship capabilities.

This is interestingly a descendant of the Panerai Lo Scienziato Luminor 1950 Tourbillon GMT Titanio. This was the first timepiece to utilise the Direct Metal Laser Sintering technique. Featuring a GMT indicator alongside soft blue hints, these watches are prime for investment due to their modern builds and complications.

Which Panerai Model Holds Value?

Generally Panerai are not considered to be investment pieces. They are estimated to lose between 15-50% of their value upon resale. However, this works in tandem with most other luxury watch brands, including Cartier, Breitling, Zenith and TAG Heuer.

It’s only the tour de force brands like Audemars Piguet, Vacheron Constantin, Patek Philippe and Rolex that yield high figures upon resale.

Understanding which Panerai models hold value requires a little knowledge of the timepieces that have made the brand famous, celebrity associations or have a level of rarity that makes even John Goldberger weep!

Panerai’s history originally runs back to the Navy in the early 1930s. This is where they worked with Rolex to create a number of highly robust watches that optimise durability and security at a time where dive watches were still virtually unheard of to the public.

One such model is the Panerai Luminor 6152/1. As an early reference of the partnership, this model may be a strong contender to yield value as it has vintage status along with that all enticing Rolex association.

The models which are likely to capture the eyes of collecting horophiles are those that feature unique materials, innovative design codes and production numbers which are limited to promote demand.

One such model is the Luminor Marina Militare ‘Left Hand’. With a limited edition run of 1000 watches, there is an unorthodox positioning of the crown on the left-hand side as an ode to Italian naval divers of WW2. Vintage and provenant with the war makes this a great model of historical interest and a possible boost to its value.

The model worn by famed actor Sylvester Stallone is another great addition to any collector. He wore a Panerai Slytech in the film Daylight from 1997. Capped at just 95 pieces, this model has become a cult classic for all Paneristi fans.

Is Panerai An Investment Watch?

For the most part no. Although most luxury watch brands will carry some form of value, we recommend you contact us if you are unsure about the potential value of your Panerai timepiece…especially if you are looking to sell.

You may find that your now discontinued or rare Panerai could reel in some excellent resale figures and be more valuable than you originally thought. This is the scenario when it comes to the Panerai Luminor Marina which has seen its value rise over a long period of time.

One other model that performs well is the Panerai Radiomir 47mm from 1997. This watch was released as a celebration after Panerai became part of The Richemont Group. Within its sturdy frame is a vintage Rolex calibre that was adopted using the 1940s.

Capped at just 60 pieces, these platinum timepieces can even produce prices that top the value of Rolex’s own Daytona line.

Another top model is the Pre-Vendome Panerai Slytech. This vintage piece relates back to 1966 and is capped at just 200 watches. Noted for being worn by Rambo himself Sylvester Stallone, this novelty has a triple whammy of vintage, rarity and celebrity association.

Is Panerai Considered A Luxury Watch?

In short, yes, Panerai is considered a luxury brand.

The watches are all handmade in Switzerland which cements them from the home of horology. From producing highly reputable lines like the Luminor to the Radiomir, they have established themselves as a tour de force within the horological kingdom.

All the materials Panerai uses are very high quality, including precious metals such as yellow gold. Furthermore, they have utilised their own materials including:

BMG-Tech: A metallic glass that is incredibly durable and capable of preserving its appearance over the long term
Carbotech: Based on carbon fibre, it offers incredible performance. Offering a unique matte black design, each watch using this is cut differently confirming individuality
Ceramica: A synthetic form of ceramic that's based on Zirconium oxide powder. This delivers a fabulous matte finish and is around five times harder than steel.

On top of this, Panerai is linked in with a number of celebrities and high-society individuals. Linked in with acting stars like Sylvester Stallione, Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, Jason Staham and Ben Affleck, their watches have graced many high profile wrists. And we forgot to mention Mission Impossible’s very own Tom Cruise who has flexed a PAM 63 GMT.

Why Is Panerai So Expensive?

Panerai can be considered expensive for a vast range of reasons. Originally founded in 1860, the brand's watches are crafted out of fabulous materials like their own gold as seen in their Luminor Marina Goldtech Sole Blu timepiece.

This is the case for the quality of the movements. Take for example the Lab-ID Luminor 1950 Carbotech. This uses the P.3001/C calibre. Offering a guaranteed 50 year run without servicing, the movements are made up of carbon, tantalum-based ceramic and other proprietary coatings.

Panerai are so popular and in demand that they yield a huge following with their own nickname - Paneristi. This is made up of a range of celebrities, including Hollywood legends like Sylvester Stallone, Arnold Schwarzennegger and Dwayne Johnson

If now is the moment to sell your Panerai, fear not as they have an undeniable history that has confirmed their presence and legacy in the horological world. The brand uses radium which was patented as Radiomir back in 1916.

Signifying the first time lume was ever used in watches, this was integral to the military and represented their huge influence on the timekeeping world.

Panerai have the celebrity backing and quality of materials and movements to make them a go-to brand for horophiles, and they have strong and distinct design codes which make them highly recognizable.

Combined with the vast range of pieces, they cover models made for the Navy and dressy watches, plus they have a constant demand network named Paneristi.

How Many Panerai Are Made A Year?

It’s estimated that Panerai only releases around 45,000 to 60,000 watches per year. This is incredibly low in comparison with other brands like Longines who make 1.5 million and Omega who produce around 500,000.

What Is The Most Iconic Panerai Watch?

The most iconic Panerai timepiece is the Panerai Radiomir 1940 Minute Repeater Carillon Tourbillon GMT. Sized at 49mm of red gold, the timepiece is by far the most complicated mechanical model released from the brand.

It features a range of highly complex functions, including a decimal repeater that features three gongs to strike two different time zones and a stunning tourbillon complication. The Carillon decimal repeater features a button at 8 o’clock which activates the chimes with the first and third gong sounding out the hours and minutes.

The watches have a second time zone striking function which is made up of two time zones found via a GMT hand and the main hour hand. The chiming is selected via the crown which can pick between the home and local times.

This watch represents the peak of Panerai’s skills, including craftsmanship, the ability to work with precious metals and develop a model, brimming with complications.

The 633 component Calibre P.2005/MR is a movement which offers the 4 day power reserve. It has an estimated value of around £307,000 as of March 2024.

Who Wears Panerai?

Panerai is worn by a range of clientele. This covers all sorts of celebrities like Ben Affleck and Jason Statham who wears a Luminor, Tom Cruise and Gladiator actor Russell Crowe who has been known to sport the iconic Panerai Radiomir.

What Is The Most Classic Panerai Model?

Perhaps the most classic Panerai model is the Luminor.

Released in 1950, this line introduced the signature crown lock and other design codes like integrated lugs and the cushion case shape. Eventually released in 1993, the Luminor has a legacy behind it, the stuff legends are made of

Following the release of Radiomir, Luminor was released in 1949. It was groundbreaking as it was no longer radium based and was instead tritium based. This came accompanied with the famous crown protector that bridges over the crown and is operated via a lever.

Conclusion

What have we learnt? Panerai is an amazing brand with some valuable watches which have the opportunity to retain or rise in value.

Its rich history serves as evidence of the level of quality behind Panerai. In order to get the best when you come to sell your Panerai quickly, it's paramount that you do everything in your power to make it look as appealing as when you first bought it. It's also key that you work with established platforms like Chrono Hunter to ensure your watch gets sold swiftly.

Chrono Hunter puts you in contact with some of the most reputable retailers around. We only work with the most trusted luxury watch retailers who have years of expertise in buying some of the most popular Panerai models.

This means that we can sell your watch with consummate ease. With offers on your watch within hours if not minutes isn’t it time you sold your watch the smart way? With our peerless service and array of 5 star reviews on Trustpilot, you are in the best hands in the business!

Contact us at any time and speak with one of our highly experienced team members to walk you through our process or to discuss the specifications of your particular sale. Don't you think it's time to let go and sell your Panerai?

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