Blacked-out watches are nothing new. We’ve seen them crop up from time to time in the sectors of field watches, divers, and chronographs. However, a GMT “stealth mode” edition can be considered a rarity. That’s all the more reason why Panerai’s latest Luminor GMT in black is such a traffic-stopper. The Italian watchmaker has a history dating back to 1860 but this latest Ceramica variant of its flagship travel watch is decidedly modern and quells the busy watch’s dial.
Not Just Stealthy But Lightweight
We may not have asked for a murdered-out GMT watch but we’ll absolutely take it. The Luminor GMT in particular can get a bit busy with its two subdials and date window, but the lack of extra color almost helps with legibility.
But the Italian watchmaker doesn’t just stop there; they opt for a lightweight, scratch-proof ceramic material for the case and bracelet — a rarity in the Panerai range. For the task, they’ve employed their high-tech Zirconium Oxide, boasting 5x greater hardness than stainless steel. Meanwhile, the caseback is made of black DLC-coated titanium.
Panerai Luminor GMT Power Reserve Ceramica Basics
Premiering for Miami Design Week, the Luminor GMT Power Reserve Ceramica measures the same as your standard Luminor GMT at 44mm across the case. There’s no central second hand but a second subdial counter at 9 o’clock.
The dial also features a power reserve indicator at 5 o’clock and a 3 o’clock date window. The GMT hand is the one with the pronounced arrow tip and allows you to track a second time zone when traveling. The watch is powered by the in-house P.9012 automatic movement with a seconds reset feature when setting the GMT hour hand.
For nighttime visibility, the gray hands and indices are coated with top-shelf Super-LumiNova X1 lume. Around the wrist, you have the aforementioned ceramic bracelet, which Panerai says is inspired by their bracelets from the early ‘00s with its minimalist “less is more philosophy.”
Spec Sheet
Case Size: 44mm
Case Material: Black ceramic
Water Resistance: 100m
Movement: In-house P.9012 automatic
Band: Ceramic bracelet
Limited Edition?: No, boutique exclusive
Pricing & Availability
Not limited in edition size but a boutique exclusive, the Luminor GMT Power Reserve Ceramica will set you back $19,100. Head over to Panerai’s website, where it’s available now.
Recap
Panerai Luminor GMT Power Reserve Ceramica
Panerai added black ceramic to its Luminor GMT, in both the case and bracelet, for a stealthy look and a lightweight feel.
