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PANERAI CELEBRATES 100 YEARS OF ITS HISTORIC FLORENCE BOUTIQUE

Author adm_reloj

Published on: 17 de September de 2026

In the heart of Florence, facing the Baptistery and just steps from the Cathedral, Panerai is celebrating a century of one of the most important places in its history. Its Piazza San Giovanni boutique marks 100 years since opening there in 1926 under the name “Orologeria Svizzera.”

Panerai’s history in the city, however, began much earlier. In 1860, Giovanni Panerai established his first watch shop on Ponte alle Grazie, which also served as a workshop and watchmaking school. After several moves within Florence’s historic center, the family eventually settled in Piazza San Giovanni, inside the Archbishop’s Palace.

For decades, the boutique was far more than a retail space. Specialized watchmakers worked there, assembling and repairing timepieces, while the Panerai family built relationships with some of the leading watchmaking Maisons of the era. At the same time, the company developed its historic partnership with the Italian Navy, creating professional instruments and watches designed to withstand demanding conditions.

Photo courtesy of Panerai

Photo courtesy of Panerai

In 1997, Panerai was acquired by the Richemont Group. Following a renovation, the space reopened in 2001 as the Maison’s first directly owned boutique. Much of its original character remains intact today, including the historic wooden storefront structure and its distinctive “OROLOGERIA” sign.

To celebrate the centenary, Panerai is presenting “Immersion,” a contemporary exhibition at Florence’s Museo Marino Marini, open from September 10 to 19. The boutique will also host special events throughout the year, celebrating a place that has witnessed much of Panerai’s evolution into an internationally recognized watchmaking Maison.