An amazing night with Panerai Las Vegas

by amitdevhanda

The Invitation

Once you open the invitation

Panerai PAM00508 Submersible Ceramica

Panerai PAM00507 Bronzo Power-Reserve

Panerai PAM00446 Tourbillion Pocket Watch

I have had the honor and privilege of attending many watch events all over the world throughout the years. There are only a handful that really stick out in my mind as being truly memorable, connective and enjoyable. Last evening, June 15, 2013, was one of those events that really made an impact that I will never forget.

By now, we all know that I am a Panerai fiend. Last week, I was invited by the best boutique in Las Vegas for 2013, Panerai, to an exclusive by invitation only event at the Nobu Towers at Caesars Palace. This event was done first class from top to bottom.

The event was held at a private two-floor suite with a total of twenty five people. 12 collectors flew in from all over the world to participate in this very classy yet casual event. Panerai used this medium to kick off and celebrate the novelties of 2013 presented at SIHH in Geneva Switzerland back in January.

Also in attendance, besides the incredible staff of the Panerai Las Vegas Boutique, was North American Director of Retail, Jean-Bernard Diez who was incredibly gracious, down to earth and engaging.

What I loved most about this event was not only did Panerai showcase the new watches being released, but celebrated their collectors and made them feel a part of something very special unique and exclusive. The suite was beautifully  transformed into a very chique watch salon, with food prepared by world-renowned sushi house Nobu, while the drinks were flowing in abundance, as collectors were mingling and trying on the novelties and creating an amazing energy around the brand by their in-depth passionate conversations and humor.

I have never seen a watch brand evoke so much emotion, passion and connection as Panerai. From my experience, collectors stay for the food and drink and then leave as soon as there is no more food and drink to be had. In this case, collectors wanted to stay longer and talk more and hang out together, The event started around 7pm and everybody left around almost 1 in the morning.

Unlike other events from the past, this event proved that the product was definitely the hero.  The new product for 2013 is absolutely amazing. Collectors responded very well to it. Many pictures and wrist shots were taken. Subsequently, I am sure orders we already placed.  I was very impressed with the new Submersible Bronzo Power Reserve, PAM00507, retails for $13,200, which is strange because I didn’t really think I would like it.  What I really came to see was it’s darker brother, PAM00508 , the 1950 Submersible Ceramica. retails for $17,500.  I liked it, but was not overly impressed to be honest. The watch looks smaller in an all black finish and the strap is tapered, making this watch look less stealth and masculine. Even though both watches are exactly the same size of 47 mm, the Bronzo feels bigger, looks more historic and just has a more versatile aesthetic over all. Other pieces on hand, included the new PAM00510, which will eventually replace the iconic PAM00111, as well as the new Regatta Flyback in Titanium with 1950 case, PAM00526 and many others.

I would like to sincerely thank Gari Arevalo, Panerai Las Vegas Boutique Manager and his entire staff for putting on an incredibly stellar event second to none, which brought together collectors from all over the world, to experience Panerai on an intimate level, like they have never experienced before.