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The Panerai Radiomir Quaranta Goldtech returns with a modern take on vintage style

The Panerai Radiomir Quaranta Goldtech returns with a modern take on vintage style

Fergus Nash
  • The Panerai Radiomir Quaranta Goldtech marks a return for the 40mm Radiomir case.
  • The use of Goldtech and a white dial offers a modern and sophisticated take on the vintage-inspired watch.
  • It’s also the thinnest watch in Panerai’s current lineup, at a cuff-friendly 10.15mm.

This seems to be the year of the Radiomir for Panerai, with particular emphasis put on honouring the earliest prototype from 1935. After the Radiomir luminous material was invented by Guido Panerai in 1915, originally for use with gun sights, a collaboration with Rolex saw luminous divers supplied to the Royal Italian Navy throughout the 1930s and ‘40s. Nearly 90 years later, the rugged and utilitarian designs have become an icon in their own rights, and watches such as the Panerai Radiomir Quaranta Goldtech offer a refined and dressy take on the Italian legend.

Panerai Radiomir Quaranta Goldtech

Despite the cushion case, wire lugs and large conical crown, this vintage-styled watch offers an incredibly modern wearing experience. The Panerai Radiomir case hasn’t been available in a 40mm size for a considerable amount of time, and the return to Quaranta wearability will be an exciting prospect for anyone looking for a more gender-neutral option than the 45mm or 47mm versions. It’s also currently the thinnest watch in Panerai’s fleet, with a 10.15mm case height that’s surprisingly cuff-friendly. Besides the size, the most obvious difference between the Panerai Radiomir Quaranta Goldtech and the huge militant divers of old is the shining gold case. Panerai’s Goldtech is a form of 18k red or rose gold that includes a higher copper percentage, letting more warmth shine through the polished lustres and the brushed surfaces.

Panerai Radiomir Quaranta Goldtech

Pairing beautifully with the Goldtech case is a white dial with sunburst finishing, adding to the splendour of light dynamics this watch provides. The hue of the case is also perfectly matched to the ageing of the Radiomir’s lume, tying in the base layer of the sandwich dial construction neatly. Other modern touches include the date display at 3 o’clock, and the small seconds subdial at 9 with the now-familiar leaf-shaped hand. The calibre P.900 is visible from a sapphire caseback, with industrious brushing that sticks to a sterner side of the brand. It provides automatic winding with a generous 72-hour power reserve, and the small seconds hand ticks at 4Hz for a smooth sweep.

The Panerai Radiomir Quaranta Goldtech pricing and availability:

The Panerai Radiomir Quaranta Goldtech will be available from Panerai boutiques, authorised dealers, as well as their website. Price: €18,500

Brand Panerai
Model Radiomir Quaranta Goldtech
Case Dimensions 40mm x 45mm
Case Material 18k Goldtech
Water Resistance 50m
Crystal(s) Sapphire
Dial White sunburst
Lug Width 24mm
Strap Alligator leather
Movement P.900
Power Reserve 72 hours
Availability Available now
Price €18,500