Panerai has collaborated with the Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli team on a series of limited editions over the years. Founded in 1860 in Florence, Panerai originally supplied precision instruments to the Royal Italian Navy. The Luna Rossa team competes in the America's Cup and shares some DNA with the brand's maritime roots. This partnership has produced several limited-edition timepieces tied to competitive sailing.
The 37th America's Cup, held in Barcelona from August 22 to October 27, 2024, saw Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli fight to the Louis Vuitton Cup Final before losing to INEOS Britannia. Emirates Team New Zealand defended their title in the Cup Match. Luna Rossa did win the inaugural Puig Women's America's Cup.
The Panerai Submersible QuarantaQuattro Luna Rossa (Ref. PAM01681) commemorates the 37th America's Cup. Limited to 137 pieces, it's a functional diver with the Luna Rossa color scheme and Panerai's characteristic proportions.
First Impressions
The PAM01681 stands out immediately. The 44mm brushed steel case has the typical Panerai presence, though it remains wearable despite the size. The glossy gray dial with luminous markers gives decent legibility in low light. Small seconds at 9 o'clock, date at 3 o'clock.
The polished ceramic rotating bezel with graduated scale reinforces the dive-watch purpose and contrasts nicely against the brushed steel. The screwed brushed steel caseback provides the expected structural integrity.
Movement & Performance
The automatic P.900 calibre powers this watch. At 4.2mm thick, it's slim for a movement offering a 3-day power reserve. 23 jewels, 28,800 alternations per hour, Incabloc anti-shock device. It works.
Comfort & Wearability
Despite its tool-watch bones, the Submersible QuarantaQuattro Luna Rossa wears comfortably. The bi-material grey Luna Rossa strap references the AC75 Luna Rossa boat and balances durability with flexibility. The trapezoidal brushed steel buckle secures it well.
Diving Capability & Practicality
Water resistance of 300 meters (30 bar). Unidirectional rotating bezel for tracking dive time. Oversized hands and luminescent markers for readability underwater. Though inspired by yacht racing, it handles dive-watch duties.
Personal Experience & Thoughts
As a longtime Panerai enthusiast, I initially thought my collection was complete after acquiring both the PAM00580 and PAM00654. These two watches have been favorites in my rotation, and I find myself reaching for a Panerai more often than not. However, when I saw this limited-edition PAM01681, I knew it was only a matter of time before it joined my collection.
I've always had an appreciation for limited editions, and I had been eyeing a Luna Rossa edition for some time. But what truly captivated me about this model was the dial - a glossy gray unlike anything I've seen on a Panerai before. The way it interacts with light, framed by the black polished ceramic bezel, makes it visually interesting. Given that gray is my favorite color - it dominates my wardrobe, and even my car - it felt like a watch that was made for me.
Final Verdict
The Panerai Submersible QuarantaQuattro Luna Rossa PAM01681 combines the America's Cup connection with a capable dive watch. The glossy gray dial, 44mm case, and polished ceramic bezel give it presence. The P.900 movement is reliable with a solid power reserve. Limited to 137 pieces for those who care about that.
For Panerai collectors or sailing fans, the PAM01681 ties together the brand's naval history with the Luna Rossa partnership.
