A new limited edition timepiece has been released by Florentine watchmaker Panerai, blending the brand’s Italian design heritage with its Swiss watchmaking practices.
Just 121 pieces of the Luminor Geneva Boutique Special Edition model will be created by Panerai to celebrate the brand’s launch of a new boutique located in the Swiss city on 21, Rue de Rhône. The watch is exclusive to this specific store and sports a design distinctly inspired by Genevan culture.
Encased in a bold, matte black 44mm titanium case, the contemporary timepiece is finished with an engraving of Geneva’s iconic Jet d’Eau fountain landmark on the caseback. The watch is also characterised by the brand’s first-ever use of a grainy dial to accompany its P.5000 movement.
Referencing features found on Panerai’s historical models produced for underwater commandos, this limited edition Luminor is also designed with a manual caliber and an eight-day power reserve. It is water-resistant to a depth of 300 metres, making it well-suited for time spent on board superyachts and in the water.
The Luminor Geneva Boutique Special Edition comes with two straps to offer strikingly different styles. Wearers can choose from a green rubber band for a sporty look or another in grey which is made from recycled plastics to appeal to eco-conscious customers.
The new model will be available for purchase only from Panerai’s Geneva-based boutique in Switzerland. Named “Modularità Espressiva", the boutique has been conceptualised as a two-story flagship store that combines a showcase of the brand’s products with a display about the history and practices of Panerai alongside a bar area to enhance clients’ shopping experience.
Interiors are decorated with a display of Panerai’s iconic luminous green watchface, accompanied by high-tech elements including TV Screens and touchscreen monitors for customers to discover product details. Various displays throughout the boutique offer shoppers experiential, hands-on interactions with Panerai’s items, from glass-less lightboxes to portholes to break down the barrier between buyers and their desired timepieces.
The shopping experience is accompanied by social areas including a lounge outfitted with Italian furniture and an Art-Deco style bar for customers to enjoy an Italian coffee or cocktail during their visit.
The Luminor Geneva Boutique Special Edition timepiece costs CHF 9,800 and can be purchased solely from the newly-opened Geneva boutique.