Time to shine
Panerai strengthens its presence in Malaysia with a new standalone boutique in Kuala Lumpur.
FOR Florentine luxury watchmaker Panerai, its swanky new boutique in Pavilion Kuala Lumpur signifies a big step forward in pleasing loyal customers within Malaysia.
Before this recent opening, there were only three other countries in South-East Asia that carries the Panerai name as retail standalones – Singapore, the Philippines and Thailand.
“We’re excited to make our presence here known. Especially since there are already many collectors of our watches in Malaysia,” says Giacomo Cinelli, managing director of Panerai South-East Asia and Oceania.
“It was just a matter of finding a good location for our boutique. So I think it’s finally the right time for us. Globally, this counts as our 81st standalone and we’re very proud of it.”
Designed with an ideal blend of tradition and of the future, the luxurious space immerses customers in a sophisticated environment and invites them to discover the brand’s heritage.
Recurrent elements in all Panerai boutiques like walnut wood and brass, plus floor tiles with delicate veining that represent lightness, were selected to reflect the philosophy of the brand. Together with partner Swiss Watch Gallery, Panerai aims at providing an exceptional experience for Malaysian watch enthusiasts, while conveying values of fine Swiss watchmaking.
As a brand, it is well-loved for its adherence to timelessness and attention to detail. A variety of watch designs denote modern cool, as well as push the boundaries of horology.
The latest novelties unveiled in Geneva at the 2019 Salon International De La
Haute Horlogerie include a range of rugged dive watches. These pay tribute to the models introduced in the
1950s as professional diving instruments.
“It has really been a great moment for the brand because we’re entering a new era and direction. Panerai has always had a few submersible timepieces but this time we’ve created a standalone collection,” Cinelli notes.
Panerai is also currently in partnership with Italian racing team Luna Rossa for the America’s Cup, which is considered to be the most important and exciting sailing race worldwide. “For Panerai, it’s more than just watches. It’s also about life experiences. Of course, our watches are fantastic – they’re innovative and beautiful, but it is also life’s experiences that counts,” Cinelli concludes.