Officine Panerai

Asimut
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Diving watches of the Italian Navy (actually OT)

We are all well aware of, and appreciate the Panerai history as THE supplier of diving watches and tools to the Italian Navy. The last watch supplied by Panerai to the Navy was the reference 5218-202/A

(photo by Nico)

Since 2005 the official watch supplied to the Italian Navy (Marina Militare) is the MMT500. This watch is made to the specifications of the Navy which stipulate that the watch has to be mechanical with a depth rating of 500 meters. The MMT500 that was supplied was designed following specific details which included oversized luminous markers and hands and a larger legible marked bezel. The sapphire crystal is rated with a hardness of 1000 vickers.

The MMT500 was designed by Umberto Panzeri, a watchmaker from Viareggio.

(photos by Volker and Fastre)

Part of the Marina Militare is the diving unit called Com.Sub.In. This unit was founded in 1954 and united the various diving commandos units. In times of peace the main mission of this unit is to assist submarine troops in distress (as far as 300 meters), clear unexploded sea mines and cooperate in special missions of offshore defense. Upon special request of the Comsubin, the MMT500 delivered to the unit is made with PVD coating and sapphire crystal is made with an increased rating of 2000 vickers. I was lucky to obtain on of these specimens.

OK,  I admit this watch is not a design masterpiece (understatement), just look at the imbalanced "swiss movement" inscription at 6 - BUT, it makes a very nice and reliable daily sport wear AND it is the REAL DEAL- the watch that's used today.  An added bonus is the link to the Italian Navy, as is our favorite brand

The Comsubin logo left of the date.

The watch comes in a simple and functional box with a sharky strap (fantastic btw), rubber strap and a kelvar strap,,,

Hope you enjoyed, HAGWE

Cheers,

Asi