Photography: courtesy of Panerai

WHEN PANERAI THROWS an event, they don’t just dip a toe in the water – they dive straight in. Last week, Sydney’s iconic Walsh Bay was transformed into a Panerai playground, complete with a resplendent navy carpet and a tunnel of blue light that felt more like entering the deep blue sea than a party. The occasion? A celebration of Panerai’s luxurious, adventure-ready timepieces, with a bit of Italian charm thrown in for good measure.

The watches may have been the stars of the night, but the vibe stole the show. With panoramic views of Sydney Harbour as the backdrop, guests sipped champagne and savoured Italian-inspired bites while DJ James Alexandr’s beats set the tone. It wasn’t just an event but a moment where style met adventure with a dash of laid-back luxury.

Photography: courtesy of Panerai
Photography: courtesy of Panerai

Speaking of style, if you’re into the design details, the timepieces on display were nothing short of jaw-dropping. A total of 33 watches made an appearance, from the sporty Luna Rossa collection to the cutting-edge Submersible Elux LAB-ID, showcasing the brand’s impeccable fusion of Italian design and Swiss craftsmanship.

But it didn’t stop there, among the VIPs that showed face were actor Thomas Cocquerel, Olympic diver Sam Fricker, and Bondi Lifesaver Harrison Reid – all sporting Panerais on their wrists.

Photography: courtesy of Panerai
Photography: courtesy of Panerai
Photography: courtesy of Panerai

Panerai’s CEO, Jean-Marc Pontroué, summed up the night. “We have long dreamt of bringing our World of Panerai to Australia and inviting guests to immerse themselves in the Panerai story. Our timepieces are strongly aligned with the Australian lifestyle, and it is a thrill to share our exhibition with collectors and VIPs in your beautiful country.” 

Whether you’re diving into the Great Barrier Reef or exploring Sydney’s rugged coastline, Panerai’s blend of adventure-ready design and high-end craftsmanship is the perfect match.

Panerai has anchored itself firmly in Australia, and after last night, it’s clear they’re here to stay. So, what’s next? With a brand like this, the adventure never really stops.

Photography: courtesy of Panerai
Photography: courtesy of Panerai

This article originally appeared on Harper’s BAZAAR AU

Related:

The 10 best Panerai watches for summer

The 47 best watches for men in 2024