 In December, 2006 Panerai introduced a timepiece that initially appeared 70 years ago - Panerai Radiomir. In 1936 the first Radiomir models were commissioned for the divers of the Royal Navy of Italy who needed most reliable underwater timepieces to provide supreme luminosity underwater.
The modern interpretation of the original Radiomir timepieces is based upon the aesthetic lines and technical excellence of their "ancestors" and is sure to become greatly demanded by passionate watch collectors. The timepiece was developed in a limited edition of 1936 pieces in steel and 99 pieces in platinum.
The novelty Radiomir 1936 timepieces possess the same peculiarities as those created in 1936:
- distinctive oversized cushion-shaped cases with 47 mm in diameter
- the style fashionable back in the 1930s
- the black dial featuring baton hour markers and a combination of Arabic and Roman numerals.
The crystal covering the dial is produced from Plexiglas, 2 mm thick. This material, the same as the Perspex plastic that was used by Panerai in 1936, provides exceptional transparency and great resistance to unfavorable atmospheric conditions. The watches are equipped with the manually-wound movement - Panerai caliber OP X. The movement is powered with help of personalized screw-down crown. The watch is water resistant to 30 meters and offers power reserve of 56 hours.
There are no inscriptions on the Radiomir 1936 dial, so the timepiece seems to be surrounded by mysterious spirit. The Panerai watchmakers left no inscriptions on purpose - it reflects the fact that the Radiomir models developed in 1936 were also anonymous. This way the manufacture would not have faced the risk of being identified in case a timepiece used by the special services had got into the hands of the enemy.
The strap of the watch offers extreme comfort being produced in hand-sewn leather, featuring personalized buckle from white gold. It is advantageous that the inner part of the strap is covered by hypoallergenic material.
The Panerai Radiomir 1936 is sure to catch attention and evoke positive reaction of people around when on the wrist of its owner. The Radiomir popularity is really timeless - it wins the hearts due to its sober design and refinement, making it a matching timekeeping companion in any circumstances.
Beginning of Radiomir Collection
Before Panerai involved itself into development of the first Radiomir watches, the Company dealt with manufacturing a variety of instruments and devices to be used in technical purposes. Every device that left the Panerai manufacture provided supreme reliability and accuracy - it was crucial as Panerai devices were often used by secret agents while fulfilling special missions.
The request of the Royal Italian Navy marked an important stage in the history of the brand. The Radiomir watches were produced to feature the same technical characteristics and reliable quality and durability as other Panerai products. After the appearance of the initial Radiomir model the manufacture developed ten more watch models. Every model was subjected to the most rigorous tests to guarantee its water-resistance and legibility. Panerai specially elaborated the Radiomir substance to cover the timepiece's hour markers, numerals and hands. It was necessary for providing the timepieces' outstanding luminosity.
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