Glashütte Original has never been shy about leaning into its heritage, but 2025 feels like a special moment. To celebrate 180 years of watchmaking in Glashütte, the brand has introduced a new PanoLunarTourbillon. At first glance, it may look like a familiar face with a new dial, but spend a little time with it and the depth of the release becomes clear.
The Case and Proportions
The new PanoLunarTourbillon measures 40mm in diameter, 47mm lug-to-lug, and 12.7mm thick. For a platinum case housing a flying tourbillon with an automatic movement, that figure is impressively restrained. The chamfered edges catch the light nicely, alternating between polished and brushed finishes. A substantial signed crown offers solid grip and contributes to a reassuring presence. Water resistance is rated to 50 meters, which is more than adequate for a watch destined for tailored sleeves rather than deep dives. Buyers can choose between a dark blue Louisiana alligator strap or a blue synthetic fabric option, both secured with a platinum folding clasp.
A Dial Born in Glashütte
At first mention, you might dismiss this watch as a color update, but the story runs deeper. Earlier this year, Glashütte Original opened its new dial manufactory, the first of its kind in the area. This release is one of the first to feature a dial produced entirely in that facility. The galvanic treatment gives the surface a salmon tone inspired by the iron-rich soil around Glashütte. Under certain angles, you catch flecks of red that shimmer within the crystalline texture. Concentric graining marks the sub-dial, while the moonphase display and framed panorama date stand out with sharp precision. Blued gold hands and indexes tie everything together, with the white-on-blue date discs offering a crisp counterpoint. Even the moonphase wheel comes from the new workshop, underlining how much this watch is about showcasing in-house capability.
The Heart: Caliber 93-03
Inside beats the 93-03, Glashütte Original's automatic movement with a flying tourbillon. It runs at 21,600 vibrations per hour and delivers a 60-hour power reserve. The silicon balance spring adds modern reliability, while the finishing is classic Glashütte. Perlage decorates the front, striping covers the back, and a 21K gold rotor is set neatly into the top plate. The tourbillon cage, tin-polished to a delicate shine, doubles as a small seconds indicator with its rotating hand. It's a technical statement as much as it is a visual one.
Why It Matters
Complicated dress watches can sometimes feel clinical, even cold. The PanoLunarTourbillon avoids that trap. The salmon dial feels alive, especially as the light changes across its surface. The off-center layout, already a hallmark of the Pano line, benefits from the lively tones. The result is a piece that manages to look serious without being severe.
You might be surprised at how much the new dial factory influences the watch's character. It's not just a matter of aesthetics but also a demonstration of vertical integration. In an era when brands often outsource dials, seeing a manufacture take full control is refreshing.
Exclusivity and Price
This anniversary piece is strictly limited to 50 units, available only through Glashütte Original boutiques worldwide. At €127,200, it is far from an everyday proposition, but that's not the point. This is a halo watch, designed to highlight what the brand is capable of at the highest level. For some collectors, it will be the crown jewel. For many others, it will be the watch that draws them into a boutique to explore the wider collection.
Final Thoughts
The new PanoLunarTourbillon is both a celebration and a signal. It marks 180 years of watchmaking tradition in Glashütte and shows off the brand's renewed focus on dial-making. With its platinum case, flying tourbillon, and rich salmon dial, it makes a bold statement without shouting. Limited, expensive, and deeply tied to its place of origin, this is a watch that embodies Glashütte Original's blend of artistry and precision. After all, milestone anniversaries don't come often, and when they do, they deserve a watch that feels this special.