Light, strong and hypoallergenic, the remarkable physical, mechanical and corrosion-resistant qualities of titanium have made this metal one of the most valued in fine watchmaking, as well as a material of choice for the military, aeronautical and aerospace industries. From the engineering viewpoint, its lightness makes it an exceptional material: titanium has the same strength as steel but is 40% lighter.

Titanium is impervious to corrosion by salt water or the marine environment and it has exceptional resistance to a wide range of acids, alkalis, natural waters and industrial chemical products.  Although in nature it is the ninth most abundant element, and, after aluminium and iron, the third most common metal used in mechanical applications, titanium is found only in the form of oxides, hence the difficulty of refining the raw material and its consequent prestige.
Officine Panerai uses two different types of titanium for various kinds of components: Grade 2 and Grade 5.
 • Grade 2: titanium with a high oxygen content and greater strength than Grade 1. It is widely used and offers the best compromise between strength, corrosion resistance, weldability and moldability. 
 • Grade 5 (Ti 6Al-4V): this alloy can be polished and not just cleaned. It has very high tensile strength but relatively low ductility.  

The working of titanium is a very delicate operation due to the material’s sensitivity to oxidization. If oxidization occurs, the manufacturing process must be restarted.

Panerai watches are produced to very high standards of quality. It is worth remembering that the mechanical parts run 24 hours a day when used, so the watch must undergo regular maintenance to ensure long life and good operation.

WATER-RESISTANCE
Have watch checked periodically for water-resistance by an Authorized Panerai Service Centre and renovate it every two years with regular servicing, or whenever the watch has to be opened. The restoration of water-resistance necessarily involves replacing the seals in order to ensure the maximum water resistance and protection. Where the watch is used in underwater sports activities, it is recommended that it should be checked every year before the underwater activities begin.

THE MOVEMENT
Have the movement of watch checked periodically by an Authorized Panerai Service Centre in order to preserve its perfect operation. If the watch has a tendency to gain or lose time to a significant degree, the movement may need to be overhauled. The movements are designed to withstand temperature variations between -10°C and +60°C (14°F and 140°F). Outside this range of temperatures, operational variations exceeding those set out in the specifications of the movement may be noticed. In addition, there is a risk that the lubricants contained in the movement may deteriorate, resulting in damage to some of its parts.

CLEANING THE EXTERIOR
To keep the exterior in perfect condition, we recommend washing Panerai watch with soap and warm water, using a soft brush. After this operation, and also after immersion in the sea or a swimming pool, carefully rinse the watch with fresh water. All Panerai watches can be cleaned with a soft, dry cloth.

THE STRAP
Panerai straps must be washed in warm water and left to dry. It is important not to dry them on a hot surface or expose them to direct sunlight, because the rapid evaporation of the water could damage their shape and quality. After each immersion in the sea or a swimming pool, carefully rinse the strap with fresh water. It is recommended that the strap and the buckle should be replaced by an Authorized Distributor or a Panerai Service Centre, in order to avoid any problems caused by incorrect replacement. Only an Authorized Distributor or Panerai Service Centre can guarantee the use of genuine Panerai straps, properly designed to fit the dimensions of the case and manufactured according to the quality standards of the brand. All alligator leather used by Officine Panerai comes from farms in Louisiana, USA. Officine Panerai’s suppliers have committed to the highest standard of responsibility and have given their assurance that such farms in Louisiana contribute to the stable growth of wild alligators, thus protecting this endangered species. Panerai does not use leather coming from endangered species taken from the wild.