Panerai introduces a creation born from a new partnership. The partner is Brabus, a long-established German car tuning manufacturer that also collaborates with Mercedes-Benz. This model features an impressive color contrast with a black body accented by striking red, but its core is a newly developed skeletonized movement. We asked the CEOs of Panerai and Brabus to explain the appeal of this new piece.

The most crucial aspect of a skeletonized watch is its clear aesthetic. Each component must appear sharp; this is the lifeblood of skeletonized models. Therefore, the standard practice is to reduce the number of parts as much as possible for a clean layout. Consequently, watches with a date display, which requires a large disc, are surprisingly rare among skeletonized models.

Viewed from this perspective, the "Panerai Submersible S Brabus Black Ops Edition (PAM01240)" is intriguing. It has a date display, yet no disc is visible. What could this mean…?

The reason lies in its polarized crystal date display. This technology was developed at Panerai's Laboratorio di Idee (ideas workshop) at its manufacture in Neuchâtel, Switzerland. A polarized crystal is placed over the date window; only when light passes through this crystal surface is it polarized, allowing the numbers to be read.

For this model, Panerai developed a new automatic skeletonized movement. This timepiece clearly demonstrates Panerai's prowess as a manufacture, achieving a high level of both design and functionality.

Brabus is a long-established German car tuning manufacturer specializing in Mercedes-Benz tuning. Beyond its automotive division, the company also has a marine division, "Brabus Marine." It was this division that collaborated with Panerai to create this watch.

Jean-Marc Pontroué, CEO of Panerai, stated, "This partnership was brought about by our shared connection to the sea."

Their mutual passion for the marine environment, in particular, became a significant factor in bringing them together.

"One of the common keywords for both companies is yachting. Panerai owns the classic yacht 'Eilean,' and is also involved in competitive sailing as a sponsor of Prada's yacht racing project, 'Luna Rossa.' Through this collaboration with Brabus, we've gained deep insights into boat technology. It's also significant that we can share each other's successes. For example, while Panerai cannot develop boats, we can participate in development projects by partnering with Brabus. And it's a pleasure to be able to hold events together. Panerai is currently focusing on experiential models, and Brabus is planning experiences with us. Please look forward to Watches & Wonders in March 2022."

'Eilean' refers to the sailboat Eilean, which Panerai meticulously restored over three years from a state of disrepair. It now sails the Mediterranean and Atlantic, used for entertaining clients and hosting events.

Constantin Buschmann, CEO of Brabus, commented, "We place great importance on corporate culture. If our corporate cultures resonate, we can move forward quickly. Therefore, we do not simply put our logo on a product without understanding."

To that end, both companies held numerous meetings.

"It's important to deliver something truly co-created. We began working on the project right from our first meeting. The design teams from both companies met regularly, working to integrate the DNA of both brands into creating 'high-end, powerfully disruptive products.' For instance, the color scheme of the 'Panerai Submersible S Brabus Black Ops Edition (PAM01240)' incorporates Brabus's signature black and red. It presents a different expression compared to Panerai's standard models," Buschmann said proudly.

This black and red color scheme is inspired by the "Black Ops" limited edition of Brabus's high-end model, the "Brabus Shadow 900." The boat's hull, characterized by a black body with red accents, perfectly complements this watch.

Furthermore, Brabus reportedly requested a new technical challenge from Panerai for this collaboration model. In response, Panerai developed the automatic skeletonized movement "P.4001/s." This movement is based on the highly versatile original P.4000 movement. Its completion created an affinity with the "Shadow Black Ops," resulting in a bold and powerful design.

The "P.4001/s" features a micro-rotor, which contributes to both the convenience of automatic winding and the aesthetic beauty of the skeletonized design.

Pontroué explained, "Previously, Panerai's skeletonized models were exclusively used for timepieces with complex complications such as tourbillons or moon phases. With the 'P.4001/s,' we have created Panerai's first automatic skeletonized diving watch. The 'S' in the model and movement names signifies this skeletonized specification."

The "Panerai Submersible S Brabus Black Ops Edition" will be released in February 2022, with a worldwide limited production of 100 units.

"Many clients are already showing interest. As is often the case with limited editions, they are particularly keen on acquiring serial number one (laughs)," said Buschmann.

While this is a highly anticipated model for Panerai fans worldwide, especially Brabus enthusiasts, a second collaboration between Panerai and Brabus is reportedly already in the works. Pontroué mentioned, "We will again use the Submersible for the model," but further details remain undisclosed for now.

Submersible S Brabus Black Ops Edition(PAM01240)
Movement | Automatic mechanical (Panerai Manufacture Caliber P.4001/s)
Power Reserve | Approx. 72 hours
Functions | Hours, minutes, seconds (at 9 o'clock), GMT with AM/PM indicator
Case | Carbotech™
Case Diameter | 47mm
Water Resistance | 30 bar
Price | ¥5,610,000 (tax included)