Heavenly Bodies

The original count of the heavenly bodies is seven but these new launches from Watches & Wonders 2020 ups it literally in two ways — a new number of eleven and a focus on horological anatomy.

- Asaph Low

ENDOMORPH These timepieces are not only large — they are big on accuracy, history, technicality and toughness.

PANERAI LUMINOR MARINA DMLS PAM 1117 History is the theme of Panerai’s 2020 novelty PAM1117’s release as it celebrates 70 years of Luminor. The terminology was first coined by the Florentine manufacture in 1950 for its watch’s luminous compound but was gradually used to describe the iconic cushion-shaped dive watches. X1, the brand’s newest luminescent is applied beyond the hands and hour markers as seen on the bezel flange, crown guards and even the strap stitches. A 44mm by 15.65mm micro-blasted titanium case, manufactured by a special 3D printing technology, keeps the total weight of the watch including the straps to a mere 100g. The PAM1117 is powered by Panerai’s P.9010 automatic calibre and is released as part of a trio of boutique edition series, each limited to 270 pieces.

SEIKO 1975 PROFESSIONAL DIVER’S 600M RE-CREATION SLA041

The historical importance of Seiko dive watches is unparalleled as its invention pushed the boundaries of deep-sea exploration. One of the models was the “Tuna”, whose protective shroud helped earn its nickname. The 1975 Professional Diver’s 600m Re-creation SLA041 — a faithful rendition of the original — was released as Seiko celebrates the 55th anniversary of its first dive watch. Measuring at a scale tipping diameter of 52.4mm, Seiko’s use of ceramic (shroud), titanium (inner case) and its new proprietary Ever-Brilliant steel (bezel) ensure the SLA041 is built to withstand 1000m of water resistance. The watch hands and indices remain true to the original as well, which will be huge plus points for ardent fans.