The Submersible Bronzo PAM 968, Panerai's first bronze watch collection

Meet Submersible Bronzo PAM 968, Panerai's hefty bronze dive watch that opens a new chapter on the patinated case narrative by appearing for first time in a regular collection.

Bronze is an interesting material for a watch case as the copper and tin alloy takes on a patina over time. The aged look is exactly what collectors love as it not only lends it a somewhat vintage appeal but also because its appearance is unique to the wearer – no two bronze watches are exactly alike.

So you can imagine the excitement among Panerai enthusiasts when it released the Submersible PAM 382 with a bronze case in 2011. Two more limited editions and one unique piece followed; the Bronzo remained elusive for most but the die-hard few.

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The bronze case is matched with a brown ceramic bezel and brown dial
Above The bronze case is matched with a brown ceramic bezel and a brown dial

That changes with the Submersible Bronzo PAM 968. Though not a limited edition, it’s still fairly exclusive as it can only be purchased on its website and Mr Porter as well as in its standalone boutiques and WeChat boutique.

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The new Bronzo is equipped with a brown leather strap as well as a green rubber strap
Above The new Bronzo is equipped with a brown leather strap as well as a green rubber strap

As for the watch, it retains the aesthetic of the original Bronzo from 2011 but enhanced with a sandblasted ceramic bezel. The case measures a robust 47mm in diameter complete with the signature protective shield for the winding crown.  The dial is brown, to match the bronze, with luminous hour markers and dots. It comes with a brown leather strap with an additional military green rubber strap.

Also see: An in-depth look at Ulysse Nardin's Diver Chronometer

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The bidirectional rotor is visible on the caseback
Above The bidirectional rotor is visible on the caseback

Designed for professional diving, the watch is resistant to a depth of 300m. The heartbeat is the automatic P.9010 Manufacture calibre with 3-day power reserve and a bidirectional oscillating weight that is visible on the caseback.

Also see: What you may not know about the origins of these dive watches

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