Panerai has just launched the new Luminor Marina Carbotech Blu Notte PAM 1664, released in a limited edition of 500 pieces exclusively for the brand's e-commerce store. These robust yet ultra-lightweight watches feature a 44mm Carbotech case, a carbon fiber composite that Panerai has been using for the past few years. For the first time, Panerai combines the Carbotech case with a blue dial, resulting in a beautiful and well-proportioned watch that I would certainly wear regularly.
Carbotech is a carbon fiber composite used by Panerai for about six years, favored for its lightweight strength and almost Damascus steel-like appearance created during the material layering process. The process of creating Carbotech involves layering sheets of carbon fiber bonded with a polymer resin, then heated and kept under pressure.
Panerai realized that not everyone in the watch community is a fan of beige “faux-tina,” and last year's Luminor Marina PAM 1313 was rightfully praised for its use of white lume against a rather beautiful blue dial. By taking the dial of the PAM 1313 and placing it in the Carbotech case used in the PAM 1661, Panerai achieved a successful balance of mood and modern style. While all previous Carbotech models had a black dial with blue lume, the new PAM 1664 breaks tradition by choosing a blu notte dial. Nevertheless, it does not look out of place alongside previous models, as the overall theme of blue and black colors is maintained.
The deep blue dial, which appears almost black in low light but shines at other times, is multilayered with lume on the indices, numerals, and hands. The white lume looks stunning against the blue dial and glows green when activated. Personally, this is one of my favorite Panerai dial configurations and color schemes. I would say that I wish the brand made more Blu Notte dials, but I believe there's something special in their rarity.
The satin-finished blue dial gives the PAM 1664 a certain elegance, which is highlighted by the matching Blu Notte alligator leather strap, rather than a more sporty fabric strap. (Note that the clasp on the strap is actually made of DLC-coated titanium, not Carbotech). Nevertheless, the 300m water resistance ensures that this is a true dive watch, no matter how dressy it appears.
Under the titanium caseback lies the automatic P.9010 movement, a staple of the Panerai lineup since 2016. Comprising 200 components and 31 jewels, the P.9010 operates at a frequency of 28,800 vph and features two barrels that provide a 72-hour power reserve. A downside of this movement (as of the update that occurred in 2020) is the lack of a hacking seconds feature. However, there is an independent hour hand that can be moved forward and backward and used to set the date.
The PAM 1664 case measures 44mm in width, about 13.5mm in thickness, and 54mm from lug to lug. Although it's certainly larger than what I typically wear, the lightweight nature of Carbotech significantly enhances comfort and wearability.
The Panerai Luminor Marina Blu Notte PAM 1664 is a fresh and modern watch that truly represents the brand at its best. Innovative materials, an instantly recognizable case shape, and an absolutely gorgeous dial combine into a watch that I would happily wear regularly.
The Luminor Marina Blu Notte PAM 1664, released in a limited edition of 500 pieces and available only through the brand's e-commerce page, costs $13,900 USD. You can learn more and purchase these watches at panerai.com.