Hands on: Glashütte Original SeaQ Panorama Date

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A short while ago, I had the opportunity to spend some time with the steel and yellow gold SeaQ from Glashütte Original. This watch really opened my eyes to bi-metal watches as it was one that I felt really struck an outstanding balance aesthetically between the tool watch look a divers watch should have. And the specialness that using precious metals should bring to a watch. In my opinion, it was a very nicely done watch! 

In conversations with other watch lovers, however, one thing that seemed to divide opinion was the solid case back. There is a definite feeling that some people wanted a transparent case back option to see the fantastic movement finishing that Glashütte Original is known for in some of their other pieces. This is where the Panorama Date in the SeaQ lineup steps up to the plate. 

The Panorama Date sits atop of the SeaQ line, and the version I spent time with is again a bi-metal version in steel and red gold as Glashütte Original describes it. This one features the same beautifully galvanised sunburst dial but this time in a grey colour. Feature-wise, looking at images of the watches side by side, they look very similar with only really some additional dial text and, of course, the panorama date complication sitting very boldly at the 5 o’clock position. But get them in hand, and these are very different watches indeed! 

Let’s start with the differences 

For a start, there is a considerable increase in case dimensions with the Panorama date version of the SeaQ. The case increases from 39.5mm to a more robust 43.2mm, and thickness increases from 12.15mm to 15.65mm. On the wrist, this feels like a more substantial watch, for sure. With this increase in case size comes an increase in water resistance, which goes up by a further 100m, taking the Panorama date to a lung-crushing depth of 1000ft or 300m. This, unlike the “standard” SeaQ, is displayed in text just above the 6 o’clock position on the dial. 

The second and main difference with the Panorama date version explains the difference in the overall thickness increase to the watch, the sapphire display case back which shows a very different movement. The panorama date is driven by the Glashütte Original in-house calibre 36-13. With the display case back, nothing on this movement is left to the imagination in terms of the finishing and quality. The movement is finished spectacularly with striping, skeletonization, bevelling and polishing, and nicely blued screws. It really is a sight to see behind that domed sapphire case back!

Not just a pretty movement, though, this movement offers some considerable differences in terms of performance. Beating at the same 4 Hz or 28.800 vph as the standard SeaQ calibre 39-11; however, the calibre 36-13 offers a staggering 60hrs increase in power reserve, taking this to 100hrs. For those people who want or need serious power reserves, this is the movement for you! 

So some considerable case and movement differences between the standard SeaQ and this Panorama date version and a lot of similarities. The panorama date uses the same style of hands and numerals and features the same ceramic bezel insert, all of course in line with the overall size increases. The same liberal use of Super-LumiNova for the numerals and hands nicely framed by the gold finishing, just this time red gold. 

The SeaQ Panorama also still benefits from both ISO and DIN certifications, so this is a very rigorously tested divers watch, just like the standard SeaQ models. 

Just like on the Previous SeaQ, this Panorama date version comes on a synthetic strap. This time, however, there is a slightly increased lug width from 20mm to 21mm, and instead of a standard pin and buckle, there is a very nice adjustable clasp. This is a small detail, but it’s very nicely executed, and the finishing, just like the rest of the watch, is exceptional. My only gripe with this is the width itself. At 21mm, it will be more challenging to find alternative straps, which I think is a bit of a shame.

So, all in all, what we have is an excellently built and finished divers watch that offers something more in terms of outright specifications and visual appeal but at a not inconsiderable increase in size and price. The Standard bi-metal SeaQ came in at around £10,900 or over $14,000 for my American readers. The Panorama Date Bi-metal version here takes that price to £13,200 or well over $17,000. I will say that, unlike some model variations from other manufacturers that command price increases, it is evident with the Panorama Date where that price increase has come from and, more importantly, where it’s being spent. Spend some time looking through the case back, and the finishing leaves nothing to be desired! And the increase in terms of power reserve will definitely please many people. Along with an even deeper depth rating if 200m just wasn’t enough. 

Do the differences add up to the increased price of this versus the standard Bi-metal version of the SeaQ? I think that’s a very personal question with some who will fawn over all the details and finishing and see this watch as a great value proposition compared to comparably priced divers. Still, others may see it as entirely unnecessary and be very happy with the Standard SeaQ. As I said earlier, what I do like is that you can physically see the differences and where that money has been spent, and most importantly, you as the consumer have the choice! If, after all, you are looking at models that feature precious metals, you probably want a watch that has that ornate finishing and visual appeal to go with it. 

Both watches wear well, but there is no escaping the Panorama Date is a larger watch, so some may be guided more by how these watches wear and feel on the wrist. Having spent time wearing both, I can say I found both very comfortable, but there is undoubtedly more wrist presence with the Panorama Date due to those increased dimensions. If you like that more significant dive watch feel this could be perfect for you. The domed sapphire case back means this version sits prouder on the wrist but not In an uncomfortable way, but it is something to consider.

In conclusion, I don’t think you can go wrong with these SeaQ models in either steel or bi-metal variations. But the Panorama date certainly does amp things up in the details department. It’s a superbly executed and functional diver watch with finishing and details that are quite breathtaking! If you're looking for an extraordinary dive watch with that touch of luxury the use of gold brings, then this should definitely be one you consider.

Specifications:

Case: Stainless Steel & Red Gold

Dimensions: 43.20mm 15.65mm thick

Water Resistance: 1000ft

Bezel: Uni-directional ceramic insert

Dial: Galvanised grey sunburst, panorama date window gold plated indices/ hands

Movement: In-house calibre 36-13

Power reserve: 100hrs

Decoration: Glashütte three-quarter plate with stripe finish

Regulator-free fine adjustment

Silicon balance-spring

Skeletonised rotor with double-G symbol and 21-carat gold oscillation weight

Bevelled edges

Polished steel parts

Screws polished/blued

Strap: Grey textile with Stainless Steel clasp