Panerai revolutionizes the mechanical luminescence system

After eight years of research and development, the Swiss watchmaker launches a brand-new Subsmersible LAB-ID, equipped with “Elux” luminescence technology, a miniature mechanical system that generates electricity. In a limited edition of 150 pieces, produced at a rate of 50 per year, this technological and horological feat will be reserved for the happy few.

The use of “Elux Panerai” technology, patented by the watchmaking house in 1966, immediately takes us back into the brand's archives. An abbreviation of the Italian word “elettroluminescenza”, meaning “electroluminescence”, Elux technology originally consisted of electroluminescent panels forming a uniform luminous surface, available in different sizes, shapes and materials. At the time, they were either portable battery or mains-powered, and their illumination was ensured by a power supply. The “Elux” technology was of particular interest to the Italian Navy, notably for luminescent marine navigation instruments (instrument panels, ship interior signage) and for ship helipads (runway signage) to facilitate night landings.

Based on this technology, Panerai has already presented three watch models, including a first in 2017, a second in 2020 and a final one in 2021. This year, based on this heritage and the many years of research and development at Panerai's Neuchâtel factory, the watchmaker steps up another notch in innovation. The new Submersible Elux LAB-ID PAM01800 achieves the feat of lighting up on demand, powered by a system that stores energy exclusively mechanically thanks to 4 out of 6 barrels (the other two being exclusively for the movement). The energy is then transmitted to a compact 8 x 2.3 mm microgenerator consisting of coils, magnets and a custom-made stator, then conducted to the dial to illuminate several indicators, including the power reserve and indexes. By simply opening the patented pusher protection system and pressing the button, the watch lights up.

To optimize energy efficiency, the microgenerator incorporates no active electronic components, but a high-speed rotor with 80 revolutions per second, producing a high-frequency electrical signal of 240 Hz. Despite the electrical components, the watch retains an exceptional water-resistance level of 50 bar (approx. 500 meters). The mechanism is capable of lighting up continuously for 30 minutes, an exceptional longevity given the energy available, compared with traditional batteries.

Of course, the history of watchmaking has already been punctuated by inventions, especially since the 1980s, which enabled the movement to store energy in a way other than by means of a battery. There was the advent of the technology of “the transformation of electrical energy from the temperature supplied by the human body. (then) Eight years later, the world's first battery-free autoquartz watch”, according to the book “La Conquête du Temps” by Dominique Fléchon. But here, it's the barrels that provide the energy for a microgenerator.

On the outside, the model uses Ti-Ceramitech™ technology, a ceramicized titanium soon to be patented by Panerai. The material significantly increases the case's strength, resistance and lightness, and can withstand high pressure and thermal stress. The dial features a linear power reserve indicator for the Power light function and a small seconds at 9 o'clock. The counter-clockwise rotating bezel is illuminated by the unique lighting system, as are the hour markers and the hour hand, which are illuminated in green.