Panerai draws on its nautical heritage with the release of the Radiomir Eilean Experience Edition watch, in a piece that encompasses nautical-inspired Italian design codes.
The new watch, limited to 50 pieces, is inspired by the classic form of the yacht, Eilean, designed and created by boat builder William Fife and restored by Panerai. Originally built in 1936, its history is interlinked with that of Panerai, which designed the first Radiomir case shortly after.
It is a natural tribute for Panerai, which began by supplying timekeeping instruments to the Italian Royal Navy. This new watch unites both this craftsmanship and technical accuracy, while staying consistent to the design of the original Radiomir with a case crafted in both patinated steel and bronze, as well as details such as the divided hour hand.
At 45mm, this new piece cuts a slimmer silhouette, the surface of its organic form adapting over time thanks to the bronze on the bezel, crown and caseback, which will take on its own unique patina, an homage to the repurposed metal salvaged from the Eilean. Elsewhere are other nautical nods, from the textured surface of the blue dial reminiscent of the ripples on a boat’s teak deck, to the engraving on the side of the case, which replicates the dragon emblem on the Eilean’s bow. A focus on legibility is translated into the uncluttered face and Super-LumiNova Dial.
The watch comes with a raft of experiences, from the immersive to the digital, with owners of the watch offered the chance to sail on the Eilean along the Amalfi Coast. Owners will also receive an NFT, which comes with a unique artwork, amongst other benefits.
It is an exciting first step into the metaverse for the brand. ‘Technology is the next frontier offering limitless potential, and Panerai is at the leading edge in that arena,’ says CEO Jean-Marc Pontroué. ‘Through our blockchain digital wallet, and creation of our first NFTs, the brand will use dynamic new measures to respond to our customers and allow them to verify ownership of their treasured Panerai watches.’
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