The story behind this Panerai Ferrari Granturismo Automatic
The meeting of Swiss watchmaking engineering and Italian motoring passion sometimes gives rise to unexpected and resolutely daring creations. In 2005, the Scuderia entrusted the Florentine manufacture with the task of designing an exclusive line, marking a complete aesthetic break with its historic collections. Luca di Montezemolo, then President of the Prancing Horse brand, imposed a strict and fascinating condition, demanding that the brand not simply affix a logo to an existing dial. The designers redesigned the legendary Luminor 1950 case in a wind tunnel and chose to eliminate the famous crown-protector bridge to create a purely aerodynamic line. The result is reference FER00002, a timepiece that captures the adrenalin of the racetrack while retaining absolute rigour. Moreover, the dial does not bear the name of its creator, leaving all the space to the undisputed myth of Maranello.
Case, calibre and strap of this Panerai Ferrari Granturismo Automatic
This piece sculpted in solid stainless steel makes a statement with a statutory diameter of 45 mm. Its cushion-like shape alternates skilfully between polished flanks that catch the light violently and an extremely fine brushed top. Beneath a 2 mm-thick sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating, the black dial textured with a fine grid instantly evokes the grilles of Grand Touring cars. Yellow flashes enliven the peripheral flange and the small seconds hand at 9 o'clock. At the heart of this precision mechanism beats the OP III calibre, a chronometer-certified self-winding movement. This robust calibre beats at a frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour and incorporates 21 jewels to limit friction, guaranteeing a power reserve of 42 hours. The tactile experience continues with a black leather strap enhanced by light stitching, the inside of which reveals a vibrant textured yellow lining, all secured by a large asymmetrical folding clasp. This timepiece has a tested water resistance to 100 metres.
Why this Panerai watch
With the partnership between the two illustrious houses finally coming to an end in 2010, this collection is now completely discontinued, giving each piece a rare status sought after by lovers of atypical objects. Unlike the classic models from the Manufacture that sometimes flood the market, this edition offers a singular identity and an assertive design that leaves no one indifferent. Connoisseurs will particularly appreciate the knurled crown inspired by tyres and the screw-down caseback featuring the proud prancing horse in relief. This is a unique opportunity to acquire a piece of mechanical history, combining a reliable calibre with radical aesthetics on the wrist.
Delivered contents and condition
The opening experience immediately immerses its future owner in the intoxicating world of the racing paddocks. The watch is carefully protected in its spectacular black-lacquered wooden case, itself slipped into an imposing bright yellow over-box. It is accompanied by its user manual, the essential watchmaker's screwdriver for set changes, the original commercial label and a second contoured black rubber strap. This timepiece is in exceptional near-new condition, with metal surfaces revealing only the tiniest of barely perceptible micro-scratches. Its mechanics and glass remain impeccable, testifying to the maniacal care taken by its previous owner during its rare outings.
Guarantee and delivery
The Swiss Collector guarantees the absolute authenticity of this piece with a 24-month guarantee. We accept returns within 10 days according to our conditions. As Switzerland's leading second-hand retailer with the largest network of boutiques, we offer online booking for on-site fitting and collection or fully secure international shipping.
* Like new - brand new watch, never worn or in exceptional condition. No visible defects to the naked eye.