Oversized Legacy: The Panerai Luminor Tre Giorni PAM01628 Redefines Tradition

Panerai continues to push the boundaries of heritage and innovation with the introduction of the Luminor Tre Giorni PAM01628. A timepiece of substantial presence and technical refinement, this latest addition to the Luminor collection is a seamless fusion of Panerai’s storied past and modern craftsmanship.

"At Panerai, our mission is to honor our rich heritage while driving forward with modern innovation. The Luminor Tre Giorni is crafted to pay tribute to the historical elements of our early watches, capturing their distinctive aesthetics and practical functionality. This timepiece embodies our ongoing commitment to blending tradition with cutting-edge watchmaking,” says Jean-Marc Pontroué, CEO of Panerai.

Designed with purpose, the PAM01628 boasts a robust 47mm case—an unmistakable nod to the oversized watches worn by Italian commandos during their daring underwater missions. Readability was paramount then, and it remains so now. The case features a unique patina finish, achieved through a specialized process that mimics the natural aging of vintage Panerai timepieces. This aged effect isn’t just for aesthetics; it also reduces glare, reinforcing the rugged, tool-watch nature of the piece.

The interplay of textures is another standout feature. The patinated steel case contrasts strikingly with the brushed steel elements of the bridge, lever, and buckle, while the grey gradient sandwich dial adds depth and dimension. A hallmark of Panerai’s 1930s ingenuity, the sandwich dial construction ensures maximum legibility, even in the darkest environments. Originally, this innovative dial was so luminous that Italian frogmen had to smear their watches with mud or seaweed during night operations to avoid detection. Today, the effect is achieved with beige Super-LumiNova™, staying true to its functional roots.

At the heart of the PAM01628 beats the P.3000 caliber—a manually wound movement with an impressive three-day power reserve, thanks to its twin barrels. Measuring 37.2mm in diameter, the movement is a feat of mechanical beauty, visible through the open case back. The large 11.7mm balance wheel, operating at 21,600 vibrations per hour, ensures superior precision and stability. Its design echoes the robust calibers used in the 1960s, reinforcing Panerai’s dedication to authenticity.

True to its adventurous spirit, the Luminor Tre Giorni is water-resistant up to 10 bar (~100 meters), rigorously tested to exceed standard pressure limits. Accompanying this timepiece is a vintage-effect calf leather strap with contrasting stitching, exuding old-world charm, while a second black rubber strap offers added versatility for the modern explorer. A watch that speaks to both purists and connoisseurs, the Luminor Tre Giorni PAM01628 is more than a timepiece—it’s a testament to Panerai’s relentless pursuit of innovation while honoring its legendary past.