Do you appreciate travel watches that are rugged, attractive—and attention getting?

Look no further than Panerai, a high-quality Italian-Swiss import known for its fine craftsmanship and durability. We’ve appreciated this line of watches, and worn one of them, for years.

Established in 1860, Officine Panerai was originally a supplier of precision instruments to the Italian Navy. In 1938 the company began producing watches for military commandos—chronometers that achieved legendary status. In 1993 Panerai watches appeared, for the first time, on the international market. Today, they are highly prized by collectors.

The automatic or manual-wind mechanical watches come with large cases (usually 40 – 44 millimeters); anti-reflective sapphire crystals; a trademarked, crown-protective device; power reserves over 40 hours; and water resistance to depths of 300 meters. Some models feature dual time zones.

Large dials, with luminescent hands and numerals, allow for easy reading in low-light conditions.

One of our favorites is the Luminor GMT (PAM Model # 00088), a dual time zone watch (pictured above) that comes with both an alligator leather and a rubber strap (for scuba divers).

Panerai models range in price from around $4,700 to upwards of  $20,000. (At the latter price, you might understandably be extra cautious as to where you wear your watch!) You can find them in Panerai boutiques and watch stores such as Tourneau. For more information, go to: www.panerai.com and www.paneristi.com (a collector’s forum). Or call the Panerai boutique in New York City at 212-223-1562.