Five Reasons Why We’re Rediscovering The Panerai Submersible Carbotech PAM00960

Released at SIHH 2019 (now Watches & Wonders) the Panerai Submersible Carbotech combines the very best in watchmaking innovation along with a uniqueness that sets this model apart from most dive watches. Today we take a deep dive into five reasons this watch deserves a second look.

As you may have read, Panerai has entered the experience business in a big way (read HERE and HERE). At the center of most of these experiences is the Submersible collection. While you might not be able to experience the Marina Militare like we did in 2019 (read HERE), experiencing the Panerai Submersible Carbotech via panerai.com or the brand’s newly launched Virtual Private Shopping experience is a suitable alternative.
 

Speaking of experiences, Panerai has adapted their digital platforms to offer private 1:1 virtual sessions with boutique staff. Starting today, you can sign up for a private appointment via this link. Always the innovator, Panerai has removed all barriers typically associated with watch buying. Whether you’re purchasing a gift for yourself or a loved one, panerai.com and the brand's Virtual Private Shopping options make it easy to dive into the world of Panerai.
 

Case in point, I recently purchased one of my favorite Panerai pieces (the Base Logo Luminor) via the brand’s e-commerce site (read about my experience HERE). The process was seamless and done from the comfort of my home. So if lockdown is tempting you to purchase a new watch, and you want the best experience in digital buying, head to panerai.com.

Whether you’re a professional diver in need of a reliable watch, or you’re a hobbyist who dreams of the depths, the Submersible Carbotech offers a breadth of capabilities that set this timepiece apart.
 

Let’s start with the strap. The black rubber strap comes fitted with Panerai’s quick-change strap system, which allows for effortless swaps and changes for those that like to play with different color combinations. Personally, I would love to see this piece on a bright blue rubber strap.
 

Another aspect that sets the Panerai Submersible Carbotech apart is its legibility. Bright blue skeletonized hands set against the matte black dial lend a contrast that ensures readability from the boardroom to the Mariana Trench. Additionally, bright blue Super-LumiNova and the bezel PIP ensure legibility under the darkest of conditions.
 

Finally, this watch is built to last. Carbotech is well known for its durability and versatility, and the Panerai Submersible Carbotech is no exception. By pairing the Carbotech case with a screw-down titanium caseback, the watch has a remarkable lightness, all while attaining a water resistance of 300 meters (approx. 1,000 feet).

One reason the Submersible Carbotech got so much attention when it debuted (read HERE) was its trademark Carbotech case. This uniquely textured material is reminiscent of carbon cases of the past, yet in the brand’s true Laboratorio di Idee style, Carbotech is uniquely Panerai.
 

To understand Carbotech, you have to look at how this material is produced. Panerai forms Carbotech from thin sheets of carbon fibers. These sheets are then compressed together with a high-end polymer, PEEK (Polyether Ether Ketone), at a controlled temperature under high pressure. This method not only binds the carbon fiber sheets, but it creates a captivating, almost molten-like, layering effect that also makes the case stronger and more durable.
 

Due to this compression process and the way Panerai mills the material, no two Carbotechs are the same. This matte black material is used throughout the PAM00960, including the case, crown protector, and unidirectional rotating bezel.

Because of the construction and finishing of the Panerai Submersible Carbotech’s case, the watch suited my 7.5” wrist quite nicely. Unlike its 47mm predecessor, the PAM00960 has been downsized to a respectable 42mm, making for comfortably wearing in either casual or business attire.
 

The Panerai Submersible Carbotech, with its unique Carbotech-based case and three-dimensional markers coated with eye-catching blue lume, makes for a compelling purchase.

We’ve written at-length about Panerai’s mastery of haute watchmaking (read HERE, HERE). The brand takes its commitment to innovation and excellence so seriously that they’ve coined the phrase Laboratorio di Idee.
 

The Panerai Submersible Carbotech is certainly not exempt from this commitment. The piece is powered by the automatic OP XXXIV Calibre, a 25-jewel calibre that is based on a ValFleurier ébache. The movement also beats at 4Hz for added accuracy. The watch’s 72-hour power reserve ensures you’ll never miss a beat.

From innovative materials to unique digital experiences, the Panerai Submersible Carbotech is worthy of rediscovery. While the PAM00960 may have been ahead of its time in 2019, it feels just right for today. A piece that is built to last, stylish, and with Panerai’s enduring appeal. The Panerai Submersible Carbotech should be appealing to collectors young and old.
 

The Panerai Submersible Carbotech is available now on panerai.com for $17,400. The brand is offering no-contact delivery and curbside pickup, so this watch can be on your wrist in no time! To book a private Virtual Experience with Panerai, click HERE.
 

(Photography by Pierre Vogel)