Panerai Elevates the Luminor Marina with a Modern Yet Respectful Refresh
At Watches and Wonders 2025, Panerai reaffirmed its reputation for balancing tradition with innovation by unveiling a refined update to one of its most iconic collections: the Luminor Marina. Rather than reinventing the wheel, the brand took a thoughtful, evolutionary approach, preserving the design DNA that longtime fans adore while introducing meaningful advancements under the surface.
This refresh doesn’t scream for attention—it quietly asserts itself through a series of smart upgrades that enhance both form and function. The result? A timepiece that feels unmistakably Panerai, but with improved wearability and a refined technical core.
A Leaner, Smarter Movement: Meet the P.980 Caliber
The centerpiece of this upgrade is the all-new P.980 automatic movement. It’s a testament to Panerai’s commitment to pushing its in-house capabilities while keeping the soul of the watch intact.
Engineered with a three-day power reserve, the P.980 ensures dependable performance that meets the expectations of today’s watch enthusiasts. But it’s not just about endurance. The movement is thoroughly tested in six positions, a rigorous process designed to guarantee accuracy no matter how it’s worn.
The technical design is just as impressive. A traversing balance bridge adds stability, while a stop-second function allows for precise time-setting—features that watch purists will appreciate. In a time when many luxury brands opt to highlight aesthetic trends over horological substance, Panerai takes the high road with mechanical integrity.
Slimmer, Lighter, More Wearable
One of the biggest—and most practical—changes to the Luminor Marina is its improved case profile. The new P.980 movement is designed with more compact dimensions (12.5 lignes), which allows the watch to shed some of its former bulk.
As a result, the updated Luminor Marina is now 12% thinner and 15% lighter than its predecessor. This makes a noticeable difference on the wrist, especially for daily wear. While previous Luminor Marina models were sometimes critiqued for their imposing size, this evolution offers a more balanced, comfortable fit—without compromising the bold character that defines the collection.
For Panerai fans who have long admired the watch’s military heritage and robust aesthetic, this refinement brings added versatility. It still has presence, but now with improved proportions that make it more wearable across a wider range of wrist sizes and occasions.
Respecting the Past, Embracing the Present
What stands out about Panerai’s approach is its restraint. In an industry where rapid reinvention can sometimes overshadow legacy, Panerai proves that subtlety and attention to detail can be just as powerful.
The design language of the Luminor Marina remains intact—clean lines, a cushion-shaped case, and the signature crown guard remain firmly in place. These are the details that have made the Luminor instantly recognizable and beloved since its origins in the mid-20th century.
Rather than dressing up the watch with trendy materials or radically new aesthetics, Panerai lets its craftsmanship speak for itself. The updates are meaningful but understated, aimed at enhancing the user experience rather than chasing headlines.
A Clear Vision for the Future
The refreshed Luminor Marina underscores Panerai’s clear vision moving forward: innovate with purpose, honor tradition, and build watches that serve both form and function. By focusing on practical improvements—like a more efficient movement and a slimmer case profile—Panerai is listening to its audience without losing what made the Luminor iconic in the first place.
This evolution also hints at a broader strategy. Panerai seems intent on refining its core collections with technical upgrades that make the watches more versatile, wearable, and suited to the needs of a modern lifestyle. In doing so, the brand stays relevant not through reinvention, but through thoughtful iteration.
Final Thoughts
Panerai’s update to the Luminor Marina isn’t revolutionary—and that’s exactly the point. It’s a respectful, calculated evolution that enhances what already worked while improving areas that needed attention. The new P.980 movement brings mechanical excellence, and the slimmer case ensures that this watch can transition more seamlessly from adventurous settings to everyday life.
For collectors and casual wearers alike, the latest Luminor Marina is a reminder that sometimes, the most meaningful innovations are the ones you don’t notice at first glance—but appreciate more with every wear.
