Baselworld 2015: Hands On With The Glashütte Original PanoReserve & PanoMaticLunar In Blue (Live Pics)

When news broke of the new dial colours that Glashütte Original were introducing for the PanoReserve and PanoMaticLunar, I was particularly excited. After-all, I had grown to know about and admire the brand through these two watches, and when I was first acquainted with them, I can honestly say that I fell in love immediately. What’s not to like about the off-centred time indication, the power reserve (or moon-phase) indicator and the magnificently placed big date, with every element on the dial placed in a harmonious position with just the right amount of balance and tension?

I had even acquired (as you can see below) the previous version of PanoReserve, slightly smaller at 39.5mm, versus the newer 40mm (introduced in 2012). Both share the same movement: Calibre 65-01 with 42 hour power reserve, with the main differences being case size and design, as well as how the dial elements have been rearranged.

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Two versions of the PanoReserve compared. The older 39.5mm on the left (author’s own) and the newer 40mm on the right

Each certainly has its own character, despite being cut from the same cloth. The previous version (on the left) has a more subdued and discreet feel, while the newer large version (on the right) presents a bolder presence due to the larger case size as well as the thinner bezel, allowing more dial real estate to be visible. Note the angle of the power reserve indicator, which is a clue to being able to tell the difference between the two versions. You will note as well that all the important elements of the dial are in the same relative position, (a clue that it uses the same movement), but that the slight design changes have given the newer version a decidedly more forceful character.

The big news of course this year are the dial colours, and with Glashütte Original’s long experience of dial-making, we find their new blue version particularly fetching.

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Deep and intense, the dial has has to be seen in person to be appreciated properly. Paired with the blue strap, this watch radiates an intensity that is hard to ignore.

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Calibre 65-01 is viewable through the sapphire case-back, beautifully decorated with dual engraved balance cocks

The other watch, the PanoMaticLunar, differs from the PanoReserve in having a Moonphase indicator (at top right) and having the automatic Calibre 90-02 movement. (as evidenced by the “Matic” in the name).

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The micro-rotor can be seen here in the PanoMaticLunar, implemented in a way as to not cover the dual engraved balance cock. Which you would get then, would come down to preference of complication (power reserve indicator or moonphase) or method of winding (manual or automatic). Both complement each other, and if you’re a fan of the off-centred dial design, then your next decision on which to get is easily satisfied with either watch. My personal preference is for the PanoReserve, because I like to wind my watches, although I have heard that some prefer the look and romance of a moonphase.

While the blue dial in stainless steel is the undoubted star of the show this year, more classically minded watch lovers can choose the more luxurious option that was also introduced. Here, presenting a decidedly more traditional and classical presence, the black dial in a rose gold case, which is just as beautiful…

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