By Jovan Krstevski
To commemorate its 180th anniversary alongside the inauguration of its new Dial Manufactory, Glashütte Original introduces the PanoLunarTourbillon, reference 1-93-03-01-03-61. This limited edition features a platinum case and a rose colored “iron ore” dial. Positioned as a celebration of the brand’s legacy and forward momentum, the piece speaks to the brand’s continued dedication to Saxon watchmaking.
The platinum case lands at 40mm x 12.7mm. So no, it won’t hide under a shirt cuff without a bit of coaxing, but this isn’t trying to be some dainty dress piece either. The proportions feel just right for what the watch is attempting: an architectural display of watchmaking that demands a decent canvas. It’s also a hefty bit of metal on the wrist, which many will take as a reassuring sign of substance rather than bulk for bulk’s sake.
The galvanized rose dial is a nod to the region’s mineral history, but it’s more than that. Its crystalline finish creates a shifting surface that responds vividly to changing light. Depending on the angle, the tone can swing from raw, earthen rose to flashes of metallic warmth or soft purples. It’s a layered visual experience, adding depth far beyond flat color. The off-centre hour and minute subdial leans left, balanced by the moonphase and large date window to the right. Down below, the flying tourbillon is fully exposed, suspended without a top support so its steady rotation is on full display, almost like it’s hovering in place. The entire layout, defined by a measured asymmetry, follows a longstanding pillar of the Pano line; the principle of the golden ratio.
Beating inside is the in-house calibre 93-03, an automatic movement with a healthy 60-hour power reserve. It ticks along at a rather leisurely 3Hz, which suits the spectacle of the tourbillon just fine. The movement is visible through the back, with a skeletonised rotor and hand-engraved flourishes that reward a closer look without beating you over the head with artistry.
It comes on a blue Louisiana alligator leather strap, a bit flashier than your average fare but still playing nice with the watch’s posh stoicism. At EUR 125,000, this isn’t exactly an ‘off-the-cuff buy’. It is limited to just 50 pieces worldwide, so you’re not likely to bump into another one at your next collector’s dinner.
