It might seem contradictory to give a watch like Panerai’s Submersible a case made of precious metal. Perhaps it’s got to do with how overtly sporty and robust the timepiece looks. Yet, gilding this new model in Goldtech—a Panerai innovation—doesn’t diminish the ruggedness of the Submersible in the least. In fact, its sporty appeal feels suitably elevated via the black-and-gold pairing of the alloy with yet another of the brand’s proprietary material, Carbotech—an effect that’s further heightened by the stylishly subdued matte finishing.
GOLDTECH
While being a relatively recent innovation of Panerai, Goldtech is not exactly brand new, having already been seen on the Submersible Goldtech 42mm that was unveiled two years ago. The alloy comprises a mixture of yellow gold, copper and platinum, producing a reddishtoned gold hue. What’s a first here, however, is the pairing of Goldtech with Carbotech. STRAP
The Submersible Goldtech Orocarbo comes with a black rubber strap and a trapezoidal pin buckle in titanium with black DLC coating. Also included in the environmentally friendly package made from recycled plastic is an additional Sportech nylon strap in black with ecru-coloured stitching, as well as a screwdriver for removing the buckle. CARBOTECH
Carbotech has appeared on many of Panerai’s past creations. This composite material consists of overlapping carbon-fibre sheets with alternating orientations, which are aggregated using controlled temperature and high pressure, and then fused with a polymer binder. Besides boasting durability, Carbotech adds a certain ruggedness to this watch with its uneven, matte black finish and is applied on the bezel, crown and crown bridge lever. MOVEMENT
At the heart of this diver’s watch is the reliable P.900 calibre that is designed and developed entirely by the Panerai manufacture in Neuchâtel, Switzerland. The 4.2 mm-thick movement packs a date-indication function and a three-day power reserve, which is an impressive achievement.