Panerai is releasing two Japan-exclusive timepieces in September 2021: the Luminor Chrono Flyback Takashi Sorimachi Edition and the Luminor Chrono Flyback Goldtech™ Takashi Sorimachi Experience Edition. These watches are a collaboration with the brand's ambassador, actor Takashi Sorimachi. Purchasers of the Luminor Chrono Flyback Goldtech™ Takashi Sorimachi Experience Edition will be invited to a special event where they can experience bass fishing on Lake Biwa with Takashi Sorimachi, a renowned master of the sport. Both models are currently available for pre-order.

Panerai, a brand with deep ties to the history of marine exploration and renowned for its exceptional watchmaking, has announced two Japan-exclusive collaboration models with actor Takashi Sorimachi, who is also celebrated as a master of bass fishing.

The first, the Luminor Chrono Flyback Goldtech™ Takashi Sorimachi Experience Edition, is a timepiece crafted with inspiration from Mr. Sorimachi's passion for bass fishing. Its 44mm Panerai Goldtech™ case, made with a unique blend of platinum and copper, offers superior oxidation resistance and a powerful presence on the wrist. Reflecting Mr. Sorimachi's love for the outdoors, the design features red accents on the chronograph seconds hand and markers, creating a handsome contrast with the shimmering anthracite dial finished with a satin soleil. The sapphire crystal case back is adorned with a bass motif and Mr. Sorimachi's signature, enhancing the exclusivity of this limited edition. This model comes with two straps: one in matte black alligator leather and another in black rubber, ideal for sporting activities.

Purchasers of this special edition, limited to just 10 pieces, will be invited to an exclusive tour hosted by Panerai and Takashi Sorimachi. The tour begins with a special dinner in Kyoto on the first day, followed by a bass fishing excursion on Lake Biwa, Japan's largest freshwater lake, the next day. Participants will compete to catch the largest bass under the guidance of Mr. Sorimachi, who has decades of bass fishing experience and is deeply knowledgeable about fishing techniques. The winner of the contest will receive a trophy from Mr. Sorimachi, and a barbecue featuring Omi beef steak will be served after the fishing. During the fishing, companions of the tour participants will be invited on an excursion to admire the hidden treasures of Enryaku-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

The other limited model, the Luminor Chrono Flyback Takashi Sorimachi Edition, is a collaboration with Mr. Sorimachi. It features a matte black ceramic case and vibrant red details reflecting the colors of Mr. Sorimachi's bass boat, with the red rubber-coated crown being a particular design highlight. Similar to the Experience Edition, the customized case back is made of DLC-coated titanium, engraved with Mr. Sorimachi's signature and a bass motif. The watch comes with two straps: one in black rubber and another in a bi-material Panerai Sportech™, designed to withstand even bold watersports. This model is limited to 90 pieces and will be available exclusively in Japan.

Both models are powered by the automatic P.9100 calibre, developed, manufactured, and produced in-house at the Panerai Manufacture in Neuchâtel, Switzerland. This movement features a flyback function, allowing the chronograph to be instantly reset and restarted with a single press of the pusher at 8 o'clock. It also includes a tachymeter scale for measuring the speed of a vessel.

Regarding this collaboration, Mr. Sorimachi stated, "Being on the water is a natural connection to nature for me, a place to reflect, like a sanctuary. My love for fishing has captivated me for a very long time, and I continue to challenge myself aiming for world records in bass size. Panerai, with its passionate approach to the sea and challenges, shares common values with me, and I am honored to have the opportunity to collaborate."

Jean-Marc Pontroué, CEO of Panerai, commented, "At Panerai, we seek passionate visionaries who share our drive. Takashi Sorimachi perfectly embodies these qualities. We are incredibly fortunate to have collaborated with him to create watches that are the ultimate tools for his fishing and adventures." These two Luminor Chrono Flyback Takashi Sorimachi Editions embody the advanced expertise of Swiss watchmaking, along with the respect and affection for the aquatic world that both Panerai and Mr. Sorimachi share.